The problem: You have a project that needs layflat capabilities, but also needs a wraparound cover that will show off all of your graphics. It needs to be durable for extended use, but also have a sophisticated, traditional look. Mechanical binding is great for projects that need to be durable and have layflat capabilities. Case binding is ideal for books that need a sophisticated look and a printable spine for easy identification. You need something that can do all of those things, and you need it now!  The solution: Cased-in Wire-O™ binding.

This binding style is a combination of an attractive, wraparound cover with the layflat capabilities of versatile Wire-O binding. This allows it to possess characteristics of  both perfect and mechanical binding styles, without compromising the advantages of either. The durability of cased-in Wire-O makes it an ideal binding solution for books that will receive extended and repeated use, such as journals and instructional guides. Books that will be featured in retail locations are prime candidates for cased-in Wire-O because of the high visibility of a wraparound cover.

Here are a few tips that will help you properly prepare your books for case-in Wire-O binding:

Plan properly to avoid “fallout” – The weight of the end sheets in the bound book block determines the strength of the cased-in book. If the end sheets are too light, the book will “fall out” of the case, causing it to sag in the middle when the book is held by the cover. This can lead to the glued end sheets tearing from the case. The proper end sheet weight for your project is based on the weight and number of the text pages. Communicate with us all details of the book to be sure the proper weight end sheets are specified.

Create a bulking dummy – The thickness of a cased-in Wire-O book block is of paramount importance to the quality of the finished product. The case is measured and manufactured based on the bulk of the book block; if that measurement is off by even 1/16”, the book won’t sit properly in the case. To avoid surprises, send us a bulking dummy prior to production, or let us create one for you.

Complex project?

Consult your finisher early – Books with special design considerations require the touch of an experienced bindery to turn out exactly as planned. To ensure that the production of your cased-in Wire-O book is smooth and worry-free, allow us to help you design and plan your project from the beginning.