In the printing industry, when multi-page documents are bound together, the end result or product is usually referred to as a book. Books, of course, usually have covers. A book cover printed on the same paper stock as is used for the interior pages is called a Self Cover; a book cover printed on a different paper stock than the interior pages is called a Plus Cover.
Plus Cover
Plus Covers are, by far, the most common option when printing books. A heavier or thicker paper stock protects interior pages, giving the book greater durability and longevity. Plus, heavier paper stocks are better suited to full-color printing, which can enhance the attractiveness of the book. Another benefit is Plus Covers can be bound utilizing any binding method.
Self Cover
A Self Cover is the more appropriate choice when seeking to keep production costs to a minimum. Typically, a Self Cover is used for multi-page documents — like program booklets, price booklets, newsletters, or bulletins — where longevity and durability are not required. Since a separate press run is not required to print the cover, nor is the additional cost of needing a heavier, cover stock incurred, Self Cover books are ideal for the budget-conscious. While Self Cover books can be made with any softcover binding method, saddle-stitch binding is the most common and economical choice.
Also, for soft cover items like newsletters or bulletins, using only text weight paper stock for all the pages and cover creates a lighter document that can be folded into a self-mailer making them more economical to mail, etc.
If you have any questions about Self Covers or Plus Covers, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
