Binding your own reports, presentations, and training manuals can be an easy and inexpensive way to add an extra level of professionalism to your printed materials. Selecting the right covers for your bound documents can be almost as important as polishing the contents within, since the covers will be the first thing that the reader will see. In this post, we will explore the three main categories of traditional binding covers and discuss some of the benefits of each style.
Clear Binding Covers
Clear binding covers are traditionally used as a front cover for business reports, proposals, and employee manuals, both because of their classic look and because they allow the contents of the first page to be read without the book being opened. They also make a great, low-cost substitute for custom-printed covers, since they enable any standard-sized sheet of paper to function as a cover page.
There are five standard varieties of clear covers: PVC covers, non-glare covers, heat-resistant covers, matte-suede translucent covers, and matte-gloss translucent covers. PVC covers are traditionally the most popular clear cover style, with the widest range of sizes and thicknesses available. Non-glare covers are a newer addition to the marketplace, but they are quickly gaining popularity because of their glare-free finish. Heat-resistant covers are designed to withstand the extreme temperatures of thermal binding (or for use in other high-temperature environments). Matte-suede binding covers are tear- and scratch-resistant, with a smooth, matte finish on one side and a pebbled texture with a frosted finish on the other side. Matte-gloss covers feature a glossy finish on one side and a satin-like, anti-reflective finish on the other to help reduce glare.
Poly Binding Covers
Poly binding covers are made from durable polypropylene, and are most often used as a back cover on bound documents. Because they are made of sturdy, opaque plastic, these covers are also frequently used on legal or financial documents. They are available in a number of colors, opacities, thicknesses, and textures, including decorative finishes such as diamond plate and hologram.
There are six, distinct poly cover finishes available: crystal, grain, hologram, leather, stripe, and sand. The most popular texture is leather, which is offered in two thicknesses (16mil and 20mil), a plethora of creative colors, and features a glossy finish similar to that of treated leather. Crystal texture covers are made of 16mil, translucent polypropylene, and have a diamond plate finish. Hologram covers are semi-transparent, with a reflective, holographic finish in a 16mil thickness. Grain texture covers are opaque with a medium texture, satin finish, and are available in a robust, 19mil thickness. Sand texture covers are opaque with a fine texture, satin finish, and come in a 12mil thickness. Striped covers are translucent, featuring a fine, grooved texture in a 12mil thickness.
Paper Binding Covers
Paper binding covers are made from embossed paper and are 100% recyclable, making them an eco-friendly alternative to polypropylene binding covers. They are offered in fewer textures and thicknesses than the poly covers, but they are considerably less expensive. Like poly binding covers, paper covers are frequently used as back covers or for binding sensitive documents.
There are a total of three textures of paper binding covers: grain, leatherette, and linen weave. Grain covers are classic and professional – available in a 16mil thickness, with a medium texture, satin finish. Leatherette covers are eye-catching and dynamic, featuring a leather-like, matte finish on 12mil (80#) stock. Linen weave covers make an impact, with a texture similar to woven linen and a matte finish on 12mil (80#) stock.
In Review
Whether you’re looking for a cover that’s versatile, colorful, creative, durable, or all of the above, it’s easy to find a cover that fills all of your needs. Clear covers are the most widely-used of all styles, as their transparent nature makes them ideal front covers. Poly binding covers are available in the most colors and textures, and are commonly used as back covers or for sensitive documents that require privacy. Paper covers are similar in appearance and usage as poly binding covers, but they are more eco-friendly since they are 100% recyclable. Be sure to shop Lamination Depot’s selection of binding covers, featuring a variety of sizes, textures, and colors – all available at the guaranteed lowest prices.