How Do I Bind with the Tamerica 213PB Comb Binding Machine with Wire Closer and 3-Hole Punch?

The Tamerica 213PB comb binding machine with wire closer and 3-hole punch is a versatile, multi-function comb binder that gives users the flexibility of binding with both plastic combs and spiral-o wires (which utilize the same 19-hole punch pattern as binding combs). The 213PB is designed to provide an budget-friendly and space-saving alternative to investing multiple single-function binding machines. Below is a step-by-step guide to binding books with the Tamerica 213PB comb binder with wire closer (including instructions for both comb binding, spiral-o wire binding, and 3-hole punching):

  1. Begin by assembling the machine (required on the first use only). Insert the binding handle onto the master shaft, then thread the screw through the handle into the shaft. Tighten to secure the handle in place.
  2. Use the included binding guage to measure the thickness of the document that is being bound to determine the correct punching depth and binding comb diameter to use.
  3. Adjust the side margin guide based on the sheet size of your document. The side guide is located on the left side of the machine base and can be moved by loosening the screw slightly, sliding it to the desired position, and tightening the screw.
  4. Disengage pins as necessary to elminate any partial holes from the edges of your document. Dies can be disengaged by pulling on the metal arm that corresponds to the hole until it stops.
  5. Use the adjustment knob (located on the right side of the machine) to set the depth margin to 1, 2, 3, or 4 as indicated on the binding guage. Note: The thicker your document, the greater the depth margin that will be needed to create an adequate bind.
  6. Insert up to 20 pages (based on 20 lb. paper) into the punching throat. Pull the binding handle forward to engage the punching dies and push it back to its upright position to complete the punch. Repeat in sets until all pages have been punched.
  7. Place a plastic binding comb onto the comb opener by aligning the solid spine of the comb against the metal fingers of the opener. The loops of the comb should be inserted between the open side of the comb facing up.
  8. Push the binding handle back to open the rings of the comb. Once the comb has been opened enough to insert the pages of your document, release the handle to keep the comb in the open position.
  9. Insert the pages of your book onto the open comb, starting with the front cover and working backward. If the book that you are binding is especially thick, you may find it easier to insert the pages in small sets.
  10. Return the binding handle to its upright position to close the comb. Lift the finished book straight up to remove it from the comb opener.

If you are binding with 19-loop spiral-o wires instead of plastic binding combs, follow the instructions below:

  1. Punch your document with the 19-hole comb binding pattern by following the instructions for steps 2-6 above.
  2. Adjust the set-pin located on the lower right side of the machine to match the diameter of the spiral-o wire being used.
  3. Insert the pages of your document onto the open wire. In order to hide the seam of the wire, the face of the back cover should be placed against the face of the front cover before the book is inserted onto the wire.
  4. Once all of the pages have been placed onto the wire, insert the wire into the wire closer (located below the disengaging dies). The open side of the wire should be flush against the back of the wire closer.
  5. Pull the binding handle forward using steady, even pressure to close the wire.
  6. Return the handle to its upright position and remove the book from the wire closer. Turn the back cover to the back of the book to complete the binding process.

If you would like to utilize the 3-hole punch feature of the Tamerica 213PB, follow the steps below:

  1. Jog the pages to be punched by tapping them against a table or other flat surface.
  2. Insert up to 15 sheets (based on 20 lb. paper) into the slot located at the back of the machine, immediately behind the comb opener.
  3. Pull the binding handle forward to punch the sheets, then return it to its upright position to complete the punch.
  4. Remove your sheets from the slot and repeat as necessary.

How Do I Use the Akiles FlexiCloser Automatic Wire Closer?

The Akiles FlexiCloser automatic wire closer is a highly-efficient electric wire closer that precisely closes 2:1 pitch and 3:1 pitch binding wires. Unlike manual wire closers that require the operator to make adjustments based on the diameter of the binding wire being used, the FlexiCloser has built-in sensors that determine the diameter of the wire and automatically adjust the settings to ensure a professional closure on any wire without the need for complicated or time-consuming manual adjustments. In the video below, we provide a demonstration of the Akiles FlexiCloser automatic wire closer in action.

How Do I Bind with the Akiles DuoMac Binding Machine?

The Akiles DuoMac binding machine is a full-featured, dual-function binding machine that is available in a wide array of combinations to fill the needs of any office or production environment. Each DuoMac binding machine is custom-built to pair two popular binding styles, including 4:1 coil and 3:1 wire, 4:1 coil and 2:1 wire, comb and 4:1 coil, comb and 3:1 wire, comb and 2:1 wire, and 3:1 wire and 2:1 wire (also called the WireMac Duo). Depending upon the binding styles selected, the DuoMac also includes the necessary finishing equipment, such as a wire closer, comb opener, or coil crimping pliers. Below are step-by-step instructions for binding with the Akiles DuoMac binding machine, including each of the specialized finishing modules:

Assembly

  1. Before using your DuoMac for the first time, you’ll need to assemble it. Begin by placing it onto a sturdy work table.
  2. For models that include comb binding capabilities, install the comb binding unit onto the back of the machine using the included hardware.
  3. Remove the screw from each punching axle by turning it clockwise. Connect each of the punching handles to the punching axles so that the longer handle is on the front axle and the shorter handle is on the rear axle. Ensure that the handles are in a vertical position on each axle before tightening each screw in a counterclockwise direction.
  4. For models that include either 3:1 wire or 2:1 wire binding capabilities, attach the included handle onto the wire closer (using the same instructions listed above).

Set-Up

  1. Insert your unbound document into the Diameter Scale. Based on the Diameter Scale reading, the recommended depth margin, wire closer setting, and wire, comb, or coil size will be indicated on the Master Selector.
  2. Set the Depth Margin Control to match the color-coded depth indicated by the Master Selector. Note: It is important to set the depth margin appropriately based on the size of your document in order to allow the pages to turn easily. The thicker the document, the greater the depth margin that is required.
  3. If binding with either 2:1 or 3:1 binding wires, use the Wire Closer Control to set the wire closer as indicated by the Master Selector to match the diameter of the wire being used.

Punching

  1. Align the Side Margin Control to the match the sheet size of your document. If your inner pages and covers vary in size, it is recommended that you punch them separately as the side margin settings may vary.
  2. If necessary, disengage punching pins to eliminate any partially punched holes. To disengage a die, simply pull the corresponding metal arm forward.
  3. Insert up to 20 pages (based on 20 lb. paper) into the appropriate punching throat, aligning the pages to the side margin.
  4. Pull the corresponding handle to forward to engage the punching mechanism, then return it to its upright position to complete the punch.
  5. Repeat as necessary until all of the pages of your document have been punched.

 Wire Binding

  1. Place a twin loop binding wire onto the wire holder (located on the front of the wire closing unit).
  2. Insert your punched document onto the wire, working from the last page to the front cover. The back cover should be inserted onto the wire last with the inside of the cover facing up. This will help to hide the seam of the wire after binding.
  3. Lift the document and the wire off of the wire holder and place it into the wire closer so that the opening of the wire sits flush against the bottom of the closing channel.
  4. Firmly pull the wire closer handle forward to close the wire.
  5. Pull the document out of the wire closer and turn the back cover over to complete the bind.

Comb Binding

  1. Place a plastic binding comb onto the comb opener so that the rings of the comb are between the tines of the opener. The open side of the comb (the side on which the rings are not attached to the plastic) must be facing up.
  2. Slowly pull the comb binding handle forward to open the comb. Once the comb had been opened enough to allow pages to be inserted, release the handle.
  3. Tap the document onto a flat surface to align the edges. Holding the document firmly to keep the pages together, place it onto the prongs of the comb with the front cover facing down.
  4. Once the tines of prongs of the comb have been inserted through all of the pages of the document, return the comb opener handle to its upright position to close the comb.
  5. Lift the document straight up to remove it from the comb opener and complete the binding process.

 Coil Binding

  1. Align the pages of your punched document by tapping it against a table or other flat surface.
  2. Manually insert the plastic binding coil into the first 4-5 holes of the document.
  3. Holding the document against your work surface with your left hand, use your right hand to spin the coil forward and advance it through the holes.
  4. Once the coil has been inserted into all of the holes of the document, use the included coil crimping tool to trim away the excess and crimp the coil to secure the pages in place. Be sure to crimp both ends of the coil to prevent the coil from unwinding.

How Do I Close Binding Wires with the Akiles WBM-532 Wire Closer?

The Akiles WBM-532 wire closer is a stand-alone wire closing module that can close 2:1 wires, 3:1 wires, and spiral-o wires (which fit the same 19-hole punch pattern as plastic binding combs). The WBM-532 can be used to add wire closing capabilities to any modular binding machine (such as the Akiles VersaMac) or to increase productivity by acting as a second binding workstation. Below is a step-by-step guide to closing wires with the Akiles WBM-532 wire closing module:

  1. If you are using your WBM-532 for the first time, you will need to begin by assembling it. Place it onto a flat, sturdy work surface and connect the closing handle certically onto the closing axle. Thread the screw through the handle and into the closing axle, then tighten in a clockwise direction until secured.
  2. Insert your document into the diameter scale to determine the appropriate wire size and wire closer setting.
  3. Set the wire closer control to match the diameter indicated by the diameter scale. Turn the knob located on the left side of the machine forward or backward as necessary to adjust the wire closer.
  4. If necessary, use the master selector to verify the size of your selected wire before binding.
  5. Place the appropriate wire onto the wire holder (located toward the front of the machine).
  6. Insert the document onto the wire, working from the last pages to the front cover. The back cover should be inserted last with the inside facing up in order to hide the seam of the binding wire for a professional finish.
  7. Lift the document and the wire off of the wire closer.
  8. Place the document into the wire closer so that the open side of the wire is flush against the bottom of the closing channel. Hold the pages of the document to keep the closing channel clear.
  9. Firmly pull the wire closer handle forward to close the wire, then return it to its upright position.
  10. Pull the bound document out of the wire closer. Turn the back cover to the back of the book to complete the bind.

How Do I Bind with the Akiles iWire Wire Binding Machine?

The Akiles iWire wire binding machine is a sleek and feature-packed wire binding machine that is specifically designed for small-to-medium office environments. The Akiles iWire is offered in two punch patterns – 3:1 pitch and 2:1 pitch – which both feature built-in wire closing units and have 15-sheet punching capacities. With its easy operation and durable construction, the iWire binding machine series is ideal for moderate-volume binding needs. Below is a step-by-step guide to binding books with the Akiles iWire wire binding machine (note: instructions below apply to both machine pitches):

  1. If you will be using your iWire binding machine for the first time, you will need to begin by assembiling it. Place it onto a sturdy work table and remove the screw from the punch axle (located on the right side of the machine) by turning it counterclockwise. Insert the punch handle onto the punch axle in a vertical position, thread the screw through the handle and the punch axle, and turn the screw clockwise to tighten.
  2. To begin the binding process, you must first determine the appropriate binding wire size based on the thickness of your document. Place your document into the built-in diameter selector to identify the best wire size.
  3. Set the wire closer opening to match the wire diameter provided by the diameter selector. Slide the wire closer control so that the diameter listed in the window corresponds to the size of wire being used.
  4. Adjust the side margin to match the size of your document. Use the sliding side margin control to center your document within the punching throat. It is recommended that you test the alignment using scrap paper and adjust as necessary before attempting to punch your document.
  5. Place the wire binding spine onto the built-in wire holder. This will allow you to insert the pages of your document onto the wire as they are punched.
  6. Insert up to 15 sheets (based on 20 lb. paper) into the punching throat so that they are aligned against the side margin. Pull the handle forward and then return it to its upright position in order to complete the punch. Remove the sheets and repeat as necessary to punch all pages of your document.
  7. Place the punched pages onto the binding wire. In order to hide the seam of the wire, it is recommended that you insert the pages face-up from last to first, then insert the front cover, and finally insert the back cover (with the inside of the cover facing up).
  8. Lift the wire and all of the inserted pages off of the wire holder and place the entire document into the wire closer. The opening of the wire should be flush against the bottom of the wire closer.
  9. Firmly pull the handle forward to close the wire. Release the handle to open the wire closer, then pull the completed book out of the closing channel.
  10. Flip the back cover around to the back of the book to hide the binding seam.

How Do I Bind with the MRB-300 3:1 Wire Binding Machine?

Wire binding uses durable wire binding spines to create strong, tamper-resistant, and professional-looking bound documents. The MRB-300 3:1 wire binder is one of the most economical wire binding machines on the market, offering manual punching and closing capabilities for less than $100. Below is a video that shows the MRB-300 wire binding machine in action, and provides an overview of the wire binding process.

How Do I Print Single-Color Clear Covers with the Foilfast P21x Printer? (Windows Users)

Whether you’re binding your documents using binding wires, 19-ring plastic combs, spiral coils, or Velobind binding spines, it’s the cover of your book that will make the first impression on the reader. There are few more powerful ways to enhance the look of your reports than by binding with customized binding covers. Below are the step-by-step instructions for printing single-color clear binding covers using the Foilfast P21x Printer from Powis Parker (for Windows users):

Note: When you choose to print your cover using the single-color mode, the printer will ignore the colors used in your original artwork and will only print in the designated foil color. For example, if you original artwork is black, but you select red foil in single-color mode, then your image will be printed with red foil. Similarly, if your artwork has multiple colors, then using single-color mode will cause the entire image to print in the designated color of foil.

Instructions (Using Non-Adobe Software)

  1. Choose “Print” from the “File” menu of the program that you are using.
  2. The main “Print” dialog box will pop up automatically. In the “Printer Name” menu, select the Foilfast printer and then click the “Properties” button.
  3. When the “Properties” dialog box appears, verify that “Foilfast ClearCover” is the selected option in the “Media Type” box. In the “Print Mode” box, select the “Single Ink” option. Note: The “Undercoat” box will be automatically checked when “Foilfast ClearCover” is selected as the “Media Type.” An undercoat is required when printing on clear covers, so be sure to leave this box checked. Also, ensure that a Foil Primer cartridge is loaded into the printer before proceeding.
  4. If you are printing in any color other than gold, click the button next to the desired color on the “Select Cartridge(s)” menu.
  5. After all settings have been adjusted as indicated, click the “OK” button.
  6. The “Print” dialog box will appear again. Verify that the size of your cover matches the setting in the “Properties” dialog box, and adjust the number of copies to match the number of covers required.
  7. Load a clear cover into the feed tray. Note: Clear covers should be loaded one at a time to help prevent jamming and misfeeds.
  8. Click the “Print” button to begin printing your customized clear covers.

Instructions (Using Adobe Software)

  1. Choose the “Print” option from the “File” menu.
  2. The “Print” dialog box will appear automatically. Select the Foilfast Printer from the “Printer” selection menu, then click the “Setup” button.
  3. A warning dialog box will appear that will ask if you want to continue or if you want to return to the “Print” dialog box. Select the “Continue” option.
  4. The “Print Setup” box will display. Ensure that “Foilfast ClearCover” is selected in the “Media Type” box. In the “Print Mode” section, select the “Single Ink” option. Note: Leave the “Undercoat” box checked, as a primer layer is required when printing clear covers. Be sure that a Foil Primer cartridge is loaded into the printer before printing.
  5. If you will be printing your image in any cover other than gold, then select the desired color under the “Select Cartridge(s)” section.
  6. Click “OK” after all settings have been adjusted.
  7. Once the “Print Setup” box appears, click the “Print” button.
  8. The “Print” dialog box will appear. Ensure that the paper size shown in the “Printing Preferences” box matches the size of your covers, and adjust the number of copies as required.
  9. Load a clear cover into the paper feed tray. Note: Loading your covers individually will help prevent jams.
  10. Click the “Print” button to begin the printing process.

How Do I Bind with the Akiles WireMac Duo Wire Binding Machine?

While wire binding is a great way to bind important documents, most wire binding machines only offer one of the two wire binding punch patterns, which limits users to creating documents within a specific size range. The Akiles WireMac Duo eliminates that problem by offering users the capability of punching both 2:1 and 3:1 pitch hole patterns. Below are step-by-step instructions for binding a document with the WireMac Duo wire binding machine:

  1. Begin by inserting your document into the Paper Scale located on the front of the machine. The Paper Scale will indicate the proper punch pitch (either 2:1 or 3:1), the correct depth margin, the optimum wire binding spine size, and the wire closure setting based on the size of your document.
  2. Adjust the Depth Control so that the indicator is within the colored band that matches the margin specificed by the Paper Scale.
  3. Set the Wire Closer Control to the wire closure size as indicated by the Paper Scale.
  4. Set aside a wire of the correct diameter for your document size. Note: Some manufacturers offer select wire diameters in both 2:1 and 3:1 pitch. Take note of the pitch pattern of the wire that you are using before you punch, as the pitch of the spine needs to match the pitch of the punch in order for the document to be bound.
  5. Adjust the Side Margin Control to match the size of your document. Note: The WireMac Duo has separate side margin settings for 11″ sheets (letter size) and their 11-1/4″ round corner covers.
  6. Pull out disengagement pins as necessary to eliminate partially-punched holes or accommodate specialty paper (such as three-hole punched sheets). The pins located toward the rear of the machine correspond to the 2:1 pitch punch pattern, and the pins at the front of the machine correspond to the 3:1 pitch punch pattern.
  7. Insert up to 20 sheets of 20 lb. paper into the punching throat of the pitch that corresponds to your document size. Note: While the machine can punch up to 20 sheets per lift, limiting your sets to 12-15 sheets will reduce operator fatigue.
  8. Pull the handle forward to punch your document. The rear-most handle operates the 2:1 pitch punching dies, while the handle located toward the front of the machine operates the 3:1 pitch punching dies.
  9. Continue punching your document in sets of 20 pages or less until all sheets have been punched. Note: It is recommended that you punch the inner sheets and covers separately.
  10. The WireMac Duo is capable of punching documents longer than 14″ through a multi-step punching process. To punch over-sized sheets, begin by aligning the pages as indicated on the Punch Throat Ruler. Pull the handle forward to punch the left side of the sheets. Remove the document from the punching throat, flip the sheets over, and re-insert them into the punching throat so that the unpunched side is below the punching dies. Insert the Continuous Punch Guide located on the right edge of the punching throat into one of the holes that was punched in the first step to ensure proper hole alignment. Pull the handle to punch the remaining portion of the document.
  11. Insert a wire of the appropriate size into the Wire Snatch so that the smaller prongs on the spine are at the top facing inward.
  12. Place your document onto the wire binding spine, beginning with the last inner pages. Once all of the inner pages have been inserted onto the wire, insert the front cover immediately followed by the back cover (so that the inside of the back cover faces up).
  13. Lift the document and the wire straight up and off of the Wire Snatch.
  14. Place the document into the wire closer so that the open side of the spine is flush against the bottom of the closer.
  15. Pull the closer handle forward the close the spine. Note: The wire closer handle is located on the left side of the machine (opposite to the binding handles).
  16. Remove the document from the closer and inspect the spine to ensure that it has been properly closed. Adjust the Closer Control slightly if the spine is under- or over-closed. Note: If the wire is not closed enough, simply insert it into the wire closer and repeat the closing process.
  17. Once the binding wire has been closed adequately, turn the back cover of the document to the rear of the book to hide the seam in the spine of your completed book.

How Do I Bind with the Fellowes Galaxy e-Wire Wire Binding Machine?

Wire binding is an excellent way to bind important documents, both because of its durability as well as its tamper-resistant properties. The Fellows Galaxy e-Wire wire binding machine is a heavy-duty wire binder designed for high-volume output, with an electric punch and a user-friendly wire closer. Below are step-by-step instructions for binding a document with the Fellowes Galaxy e-Wire:

  1. Place the machine onto a stable working surface.
  2. Ensure that the waste tray is empty and that the “burst feature” is closed. Note: The waste tray can be accessed from both the left and right sides of the machine.
  3. Plug the power cord into the binding machine and a grounded socket outlet. Turn the machine on using the power switch located at the rear of the machine.
  4. Make sure that the wire closer lever is pushed backwards, then lift the top lid of the machine.
  5. Determine the correct binding wire diameter using the sizing guide located in the storage tray. Hang a wire of the correct size onto the wire spine support.
  6. Insert a few scrap sheets into the punching throat to check the edge guide setting. Because the punch on the Fellowes Galaxy e-Wire wire binding machine is electric, the sheets will be punched automatically. Adjust the edge guide as necessary to eliminate any partially-punched holes.
  7. Begin punching your document and inserting it onto the wire binding spine, starting with the back cover followed immediately by the front cover. 
  8. Punch your document and inserting it onto the open spine in sets of up to 20 sheets (based on 20 lb. paper; using thicker paper or cover stock will reduce the punching capacity) until all pages have been punched and placed onto the spine.
  9. Lift the wire spine and the document straight up and off of the hooks of the wire spine support. Carefully place the spine into the wire closer so that the open side of the spine is facing down and is touching the bottom of the closing mechanism.
  10. Pull the wire closing lever forward, using the closing scale guide located on the closing jaw to indicate when the wire has been properly closed. Note: When the wire has reached the proper closing position, the indicator on the jaw will match the diameter of the wire being used.
  11. Once the wire has been closed, return the closing lever to the upright position and remove the finished document from the wire closer.
  12. Ensure that the spine is closed correctly. If there is a gap that remains between the two sides of the spine, then the document should be placed into the wire closer again and the closing process should be repeated so that the sides of the spine are flush.
  13. To hide the seam of your binding wire, simply turn the rear cover to the back of the document.

Troubleshooting Your Fellowes Galaxy e-Wire Wire Binding Machine

With its powerful, electric punch and binding capacity of up to 130 pages, the Fellowes Galaxy e-Wire is suitable for frequent use in an office setting. Below is a list of helpful hints for troubleshooting common problems with the Galaxy e-Wire wire binding machine:

Problem:

  • The green power indicator light is not on.

Possible Solution:

  • This usually indicates that the machine is not turned on. To turn on the Fellowes Galaxy e-Wire, simply switch the power button on the back of the machine (next to the plug inlet) to the “on” position.

Problem:

  • The standby indicator light is red.

Possible Solution:

  • The machine has overloaded during the punching process. To release the punching dies and reset the machine, press the punch button. Repeat this process until the punching cycle is complete.

Problem:

  • The wire binding spine won’t close tightly enough to create a secure bind.

Possible Solution:

  • If the wire closer is set at too large of a diameter, the wire will not close appropriately. Adjust the closure lock setting to match the size of your wire binding spine.

Problem:

  • The edges of the holes are damaged during punching.

Possible Solution:

  • Damaged holes can indicate that the machine is being overloaded. If you are punching plastic covers, try punching them with a few sheets of regular paper to reduce damage around the holes. If you are only punching paper, try reducing the number of sheets that you are punching.

Problem:

  • The waste tray leaks.

Possible Solutions:

  • The waste tray may not be correctly inserted and/or need to be emptied. Ensure that the tray is emptied and remove any debris that is blocking the tray from being fully inserted.
  • The “burst feature” may have been activate. Empty the waste tray and close the “burst feature.”

Problem:

  • The punched holes are not located centrally on the document.

Possible Solution:

  • The edge guide, which controls the placement of your document within the punching throat, has not been properly set. Adjust the edge guide to match the size of your sheets before punching.

Problem:

  • The machine will not punch any documents.

Possible Solution:

  • This may be caused by blockage within the machine. Empty the waste tray and check for blockage in the punching throat.

Problem:

  • The punched holes are not parallel to the edge of the paper.

Possible Solution:

  • If debris is stuck below the punching dies, then the holes may be misaligned. Use a piece of stiff cardboard to clear the paper entry, sliding it back and forth until all debris is pushed into the waste tray.

Problem:

  • The ends of the document have partially-punched holes.

Possible Solution:

  • The sheets are not properly aligned within the punching throat. Adjust the edge guide and punch test sheets to ensure proper placement, repeating as necessary until the holes are in the desired positions.

Problem:

  • The sheets fall out of the document after the wire binding spine is closed.

Possible Solution:

  • The wire has not been properly closed. Re-insert the document into the wire closer and repeat the closing process to improve the closure of the spine. If you are binding multiple documents of the same size, adjust the setting on the closure lock to a smaller diameter.