December 2003: Turned Edge Advantages

For many applications, functionality and an attractive presentation are not mutually exclusive. One binding solution that can handle both is a turned-edge cover combined with mechanical binding. Cookbooks, teaching manuals and display charts are just a few products that benefit from this style’s functionality. In addition, a turned-edge cover creates a higher perceived value for retail products. To make sure your planning is on the right track, here are some tips for taking advantage of turned-edge components for your mechanical binding applications:

Turned-edge cover choices – The combination of a turned-edge cover on mechanically-bound products offers plenty of design versatility. A popular style involves separate front and back covers that give your products a sleek appearance. Savvy designers should note that mechanical binding elements are available in more than a dozen colors, making this an ideal choice for creative applications.

If spine printing and a more traditional appearance are a must, consider a turned-edge case that wraps completely around a mechanically-bound book block. Cased-in mechanical binding - used most commonly with Wire-O binding - results in a product that offers the attractive appearance and higher perceived value of a hardcover book, but with the layflat functionality of mechanical binding. The covers can include either a rounded or square spine, either of which can be printed for easy identification. Cookbooks and reference manuals are functional applications for cased-in Wire-O, while the beauty of a hard cover makes it a great choice for diaries and journals.

Another attractive turned-edge cover possibility is the combination of a hard back cover and soft front cover. This is a great solution for books that double as presentation materials, such as teacher’s manuals, computer guides and menus. The hard back cover provides plenty of support for hand-held or tabletop display, while the soft front cover allows pages to be easily flipped.

Decoration options galore – A main advantage of turned-edge production is that a host of materials can be used for decoration. Offset printed and film-laminated paper is a popular choice as it allows for vivid graphics. Book cloth is another popular option, and it’s available in a variety of textures and colors. Additional decorating possibilities include foil stamping, embossing and screen printing.

The Eckhart Advantage
With virtually unlimited design and production options, Eckhart and Company can help you create a turned-edge product that’s both highly functional and attractive. You can also rest easy knowing the entire range of production services - from mechanical binding to turned-edge cover decoration and construction - will be performed under one roof.

Back Issues:

• April 2004  Turn Your Mechanically Bound Book Into a Display Piece

• March 2004  Large Diameter Spiral Wire Binding

• February 2004  Perfect Binding

• January 2004  Our Capabilities

• December 2003  Turned Edge Advantages

• November 2003  Semi-Concealed Wire-O

• October 2003  The Advantages of UV Coating

• September 2003  Mechanical Binding Inserts

• August 2003  The Advantages of Prototypes

• July 2003  Calendars

• June 2003  Index Tabbing

• May 2003  Plastic Comb Binding

• April 2003  Mechanical Binding Options

• March 2003  News From BookTech

• February 2003  Plastic Spiral Binding

• January 2003  Serving Our Customers

• December 2002  Wire-O Covers

• November, 2002 Spiral Wire Production

• October, 2002 Wire-O Binding

• September, 2002 Mechanical Binding Basics

• August, 2002 Cased-In Wire-O