Hardcover Binding Process

Here’s an overview of the hardcover binding process

Printing and Collating: The book’s content is printed on large sheets of paper, usually with multiple pages on each side, known as “signatures.” The printed signatures are then collated, meaning they are arranged in the correct page order.

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Folding: Each printed signature is folded along the centerline to create the individual pages. For example, a large sheet with four pages on each side would be folded to create eight individual pages.
Sewing (Optional): For more substantial and high-quality hardcover books, the folded signatures may be sewn together using thread. This method, known as “sewn binding,” provides extra strength and durability.

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Milling and Smashing (Optional): In some cases, the folded and sewn signatures are subjected to milling and smashing processes, where the spine edge is roughened and compressed. This creates a more even surface for the adhesive and further enhances the binding’s strength.

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Attaching Endpapers: The folded and sewn (or gathered) signatures are then attached to the inside of the book’s cover using endpapers. Endpapers are the blank sheets found at the beginning and end of a book, which are glued to the inside of the cover and the first and last pages of the book.

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Cover Preparation: The book’s cover, made of thick cardboard or board, is cut and shaped to the appropriate size to fit the pages. The cover is typically slightly larger than the pages to provide overhang (known as “squared-off” or “cased-in” format).

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Covering Material: A durable cloth or paper material, known as “book cloth” or “bookbinding paper,” is used to wrap the boards and create the book’s cover. This covering material can come in various colors and textures, depending on the book’s design.

Attaching Cover: The folded signatures with attached endpapers are placed inside the cover, and the cover is attached to the spine of the book block. The attachment can be achieved through various methods, including applying adhesive, sewing, or a combination of both.

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Folding and Pressing: The book is then folded and placed in a press to ensure a strong bond between the pages and the cover.

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Trimming: The book’s edges are trimmed to ensure they are neat and uniform.

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Decorative Finishing (Optional): Hardcover books may undergo additional decorative finishing processes, such as foil stamping, embossing, debossing, or applying dust jackets, to enhance their visual appeal.

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