For a 3-ring bound book, the collated text block is drilled or punched to allow for binding along the spine. The standard binding chosen for this type of softbound book is the standard 3-ring binder.  However, 3-ring portfolios are occasionally used, as well as punching for 2-ring and/or legal binders.  Utilizing a standard ring binder for this type of soft binding is considered "lay flat".  However, while the book stays open and the pages fairly flat, the ring binder spine itself rises above the text pages.  Books that utilize a portfolio or are bound with string, Chicago screws, etc. generally do not lay flat.

Though it can increase the production price several dollars each, three ring binders may be personalized in addition to any standard artwork.  See green colored binder (above) for example.

This option is ideal for binding for yearbooks, evolving business reports, directories, etc. - all dynamic publications where supplemental or updated pages may be introduced frequently.  A book owner can add punched pages quickly and easily.  While ease and economy (especially for short run) may make this binding stand out, the fact that the paper involved has been hole punched will reduce the lifespan of the item due to use stress on the holes.  For long-term preservation and usage goals, different soft binding methods are suggested.

Custom binders may be designed.  Binders may be imprinted in a wide color variety of inks (screen printed) or foils (hot stamping).  Due to set up costs, screen printing and other graphics (ink or foil) are more economical in quantities of at least 100 or more.  Binders may be imprinted on the outside front cover, back cover, and spine.  Other options are available.  For ultra small publishing projects, an economical custom binding option is utilizing window binders.  This way, custom covers may be generated on paper (or alternate cover material and inserted.  This option also allows for highly individualized covers and ease of consumer modification. Additionally, the cover image is protected from scuffing, spills, etc. by the clear plastic sleeve. See white binder with red or blue insert (above) for example.

Gregath Company, Inc. is happy to offer quite a few full binding packages and services in regard to a drilled/punched text block.  However, for the author or organization who wishes to complete their own binding, basic text blocks or drilled/punched text blocks are available for quoting for the individual or group to complete their own binding.

Standard types of soft bindings include:

• perfect binding

• traditional tape and staple binding

• plastic wire comb binding

• coil (spiral) binding

• 3-ring binding - see above

• wire saddle stitch binding

• post/Chicago Screw