Binding Basics

Why should you bind documents?  

Binding makes a simple presentation a special one, helps that financial report really pay off, and turns your campaign into a real winner. It also protects your documents from damage, helps them feel more organized and makes them easier to handle. 

What’s the right binding style for you?  

There’s no doubt binding elevates both the look and feel of projects. But which document binding style  is best for yours? The simplicity of comb binding? The professional look of coil binding? The flexibility of ProClick binding?  

Generally speaking, it comes down to the size and functionality requirements of your project, personal preference and, of course, your budget. Let’s first learn a little bit about the GBC document binding machines that make it so simple. 

Types of Binding Machines 

There are two different categories of document binding machines: All-in-One Systems and Modular Systems. 

All-in-one binding machines  are perfectly named because one machine does it all — punch holes into documents and insert binding spines. They’re compact, too, packing all their ability into a small footprint. Plus, they’re designed so a single operator can complete the entire punch-and-bind process. That multitasking ability, combined with compact size, makes all-in-one binding machines ideal for offices with limited space and lower volume demands. 

With modular systems, punching and binding functions are handled by separate machines. While a single operator can often handle smaller tasks, modular systems allow for additional people to step in on larger projects and ones with tight turnarounds. Individual punches and inserters tend to have more muscle, as well, so they’re designed for shops and busy offices that regularly take on a higher volume of projects. 

Binding Punches 

The first step in binding your documents. Punches perforate your documents so you can easily attach the spines. Binding punch styles vary. Some create a single punch pattern, so every presentation is consistent. This is perfect if you generally work on the same style of projects. 

If you regularly take on a wide variety of projects, however, a machine with interchangeable dies might be the better choice. Interchangeable dies allow you to vary the punch pattern, so you can select one that fits your project perfectly. 

Shop Binding Punches

Binding Inserters 

Once you’ve organized and punched your pages, it’s showtime for your binding inserter. Binding inserters quickly and accurately add spines to prepared documents, eliminating mistakes and maximizing efficiency. Whether you're binding just a few pages or an extensive financial report, these machines get the job done quickly and precisely. 

Shop Binding Inserters

Learn about Binding Types