Hardback / Case-Bound Binding

Hardback Binding Overview

Hardcover binding is also called case binding and it is the most durable binding technique. All the major books used to be hardbound. Thick cardboard is typically wrapped in cloth, leather, vinyl, or another durable adhesive material to form the cover. At times, depending on the technique, a decorative headband is glued on the top and bottom edges of the signatures to give a finished look. Hardcover books are bound differently than softcover books and also use different types of paper. Case binding allows for more creativity in cover design as beautiful and intricate handwork, for example, is possible. Some hardcovers also have dust jackets as an extra layer of protection. Hardcover books can also come in different spine variations, namely, rounded spine, flat back, and soft spine.

Automatic High Speed Book Block Corner Rounding Trimmer (chinaprintech.com)

Semi Auto Hardcover Casing In Machine (chinaprintech.com)

Hardback Binding Book Types

Special edition gifts, photo books, special edition autobiographies, and titles can command higher prices and have a high or long-lasting value.

Hardback Binding Process

Pages are arranged in signatures and glued or sewn together to form a book block. The book block is trimmed and placed into a cardboard cover called a case. End sheets are then glued to the inside covers and attached to the first and last signatures of the book with a thin strip of glue.

Hardback Binding Characteristics