Tips for Better Perfect Binding

• There are tabletop perfect binders that outperform floor model machines. Do not be fooled by size. Judge the features, not the weight or footprint of the machine. —David Spiel, Spiel Associates

Kicking the Tires

• Measure the quality of finished products with objective measures like pull and flex tests. The same book bound on two different binders may look similar but have technical differences that could compromise book performance (pages falling out, spine cracking, etc). The critical alignment of perfect binding sub-stations (clamp, milling blades, cover station, nipping jaws, etc.) is a function of machine design, precision engineering and manufacturing methods. These can make a significant difference in page pull and flex test results. —Mark Hunt, Standard Finishing Systems