13 Tips for Choosing the Best Cover and Binding Materials
3 Know what materials are available at the printer.
For example, if we're doing a book for a trade discount, we want to make sure we use materials that the printer has on hand to avoid added costs.
4 Know what's offered overseas.
Are you printing in color for the first time? If so, you probably didn't know that you are better off going overseas for binding and cover materials. That can save about 40 percent.
5 Consult your colleagues.
If you're really unsure about what direction to take, talk to production managers in the university press market. They are typically more forthright. Also, query sales reps, printers and vendors. Some of them are incredibly knowledgeable and can offer excellent advice."
Maria Aneiro, Director of Manufacturing, Scholastic Inc., New York City
Publishes: Children's books in all formats for all ages. Standard cover stock used is 10 pt c/1/s. For hardcovers, Scholastic uses .88 pt binders and breeze board. For board books, 24 pt SBS is standard.
"If I had to narrow down the criteria for choosing binding and cover materials:
6 I would suggest knowing the distribution channel and the price point of your product.
That is our main criteria. For example, when we manufacture products for our
At Home division, which are mailed directly to the home, we try to minimize the weight of the product—choosing lighter cover and binding materials—in order to control mailing costs.
7 I would also suggest knowing your customers well and what they consider valuable.
Then, manufacture a product that meets the value requirements of the customer. For instance, for the library market, purchasing books that can endure repeated use is critical, and reinforced binding is a welcomed feature. A parent, on the other hand, may not find value in the same feature.
