October 2002: Customized Binder Options

The next time you want an eye-catching, professional way to  hold important information, consider a customized binder. Binders can be created to hold just about anything, including paper, videotapes, CDs, product samples, material swatches and more. 

There are three major forms of binder construction - cut flush (polyethylene is the most recognized material); heat-sealed (or vinyl) and turned edge - along with a host of other customizing options that are sure to get your creative juices flowing! 

Polyethylene— Polyethylene is a semi-rigid, extremely durable plastic that’s ideal for binder construction. It’s available in thicknesses ranging from .016” to .110” to handle just about any project. Need a binder to survive even under the most severe usage conditions? Polyethylene is not only durable, it’s waterproof! 

Vinyl— Also called a heat-sealed binder, a vinyl binder is formed by sealing a piece of chipboard between two sheets of vinyl. Vinyl is perhaps the most versatile of binder construction materials, and is often used to create binders that hold a wide range of custom components.  

Turned edge— If you’d like to cover your binders in material that’s a little out of the ordinary, then turned edge construction may be the solution. Turned edge refers to the process of gluing a material to a board, and then turning the material over the edges of the board to create a wrap. A lining is then applied to cover the inside, and finally the ring metal is attached to the spine. Two popular turned edge cover materials are laminated paper and book cloth, although many other materials, such as imitation leather, can be used to form the wrap.

Ring Options— There are several different ring styles to choose from. Round ring is the “standard” binder ring style, and comes in a wide range of diameters. D-ring metal is ideal for binders that will hold a great deal of paper, as it allows whole sections to be moved easily. Will the binder include index tabs? If so, an angled D-ring design shingles the tabs so that they can be read easily from the face of the binder. All ring metal styles are available in several colors, and can even include levers or locks.

Many Other Possibilities!— At Eckhart & Co., we perform a number of specialized functions to help you create truly customized binders. Screen-printing, diecutting and foil-stamping can add a unique touch to the binder’s appearance. Other options include a clear overlay, pockets of varying sizes, and more. We’re comfortable with projects ranging from 25 ring binders up to unlimited quantities, so let us help you plan your next binder project!

Back Issues

• April 2004 Turn Your Binder into a Display Piece
• March 2004 Material Options
• February 2004 Ring Binder Solutions
• January 2004 Our Capabilties for 2004
• December 2003 Versatile Pocket Styles
• November 2003 Create Attractive Dust Jackets
• October 2003 Point-of-Purchase Displays
• September 2003 Make Products User Friendly with Index Tabs
• August 2003  The Advantages of Prototypes
• July 2003  Creating the Perfect Package
• June 2003  Mechanical Binding Cover Styles
• May 2003  Custom Ring Binders
• April 2003  Mechanical Binding Options
• March, 2003  Award Holders
• February, 2003  Slipcases, Slantcases & Boxed Sets
• January, 2003 Serving Our Customers
• December, 2002 Media Packaging Options
• November, 2002 Ring Metal Options
• October, 2002 Customized Binder Options
• September, 2002 Turned Edge Possibilities