Printing a company report or a 200-page coffee table book? Either way, the right finish makes all the difference. As a printing company that values craftsmanship, we understand how much your binding choice impacts both form and function.
Two popular methods – PUR binding and saddle stitch – each offer unique advantages.
Read our insights on them to help you make the most informed decision for your next beautiful print project.
The Origins Of PUR Binding
PUR binding (Polyurethane Reactive) came into commercial use in the late 1980s, evolving from the Perfect Binding technique. It is interchangeably referred to as Perfect Binding or PUR. Its success lies in the superior strength and flexibility of PUR adhesive. Unlike traditional EVA glue, PUR forms chemical bonds with paper fibres, making it ideal for heavy-duty publications.
Today, it’s the go-to option for high-end catalogues, photo books, academic textbooks and annual reports with over 92 pages. One of its biggest perks? A clean, square spine that allows for printed titles and branding. That’s a win for both shelf presence and usability.
What Products Work Best With PUR Binding
We recommend PUR binding for thick or high-value publications and books that will be handled repeatedly and need to hold up over time. Think educational textbooks, glossy retail catalogues, corporate strategy documents and perfect-bound novels. It’s particularly useful for coated papers or mixed media layouts where flexibility and page retention matter.
Saddle Stitch Binding & Its Ancient Roots
Saddle stitch may seem modern (and has a strong hipster following), but its roots trace back to the codex form of binding, with printed pages folded and fastened along the spine. It gained mass popularity following Gutenberg’s press in the 15th century and has remained a reliable staple due to its simplicity and efficiency.
This method uses wire staples and is ideal for lightweight publications with lower page counts. In fact, saddle stitching is still one of the most cost-effective and widely used binding styles today, particularly for time-sensitive, budget-sensitive or frequent print runs.
Where Saddle Stitching Truly Shines
Saddle stitch is best for brochures, event programmes, slim magazines, newsletters or any booklet between 8 and 64 pages, depending on paper thickness. It’s affordable, quick to produce and lays relatively flat when opened; this makes it user-friendly and efficient. Saddle Stitching is often used in industries that require regular updates to content, like real estate, education or event planning.
A Real Statistic That Speaks Volumes
According to a 2022 report by IBISWorld, the global commercial printing market is worth over USD 750 billion, proof that print is far from dead. Binding plays a huge part in this success, helping print products stand out from the digital world and giving readers many delightful hours of usage.
Which Binding Method Should You Choose?
If your project has a high page count or needs a more durable, professional finish, PUR binding is the smarter choice. It offers longevity, cleaner edges and the ability to print on the spine.
On the other hand, saddle stitch is perfect for shorter documents where speed, cost and functionality take priority. However, if your product is targeting a retro-appreciative market then this is another factor to consider.
Why We Care About Binding At Lebone Litho
The Lebone Litho full-colour litho printing team takes pride in offering expert book printing solutions backed by decades of experience in commercial litho, web and digital printing. Our advanced equipment, like the Muller Martini Pantera PUR Binder and Presto E90 Gang Stitcher, allows us to deliver exceptional results, whatever the binding style.
We’re here to help you make the best choice for your publication, every time.
Choose the right binding with trusted experts at a leading printing company today.
