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Printing and binding books is an intricate process that combines technical skill, creative decisions, and attention to detail. At Newstyle Print, we’ve worked with countless clients on everything from beautifully bound booklets to full-scale publications, and we know how important it is to get every element just right. Whether you’re producing a short-run booklet for a corporate event, a perfect bound catalogue, or a bespoke hardback, understanding your options early on can save time, money, and frustration.
Here, we share some of our team’s top tips and insights based on years of hands-on experience in book printing and binding.
Choosing the Right Paper and Size
Paper choice affects not only the look and feel of your book but also its durability and cost. Our eco-friendly and recycled ranges offer sustainable options without sacrificing quality. For booklets, popular sizes include A5 and A4, but we also offer custom sizes tailored to your project. Thicker paper stocks work well for covers, while lighter weights inside keep the book easy to handle.
Understanding Binding Types
The binding method profoundly impacts the book’s usability and aesthetics. Stapled booklets are perfect for shorter publications up to around 48 pages and are cost-effective. For thicker or more premium books, wiro binding adds a professional touch with a spiral wire allowing the book to lie flat. Perfect binding, where pages are glued into a wraparound cover, offers a sleek, modern finish ideal for catalogues or longer booklets. We also offer hardback binding for a truly premium feel, often chosen for commemorative or coffee table books.
Design Considerations for Printing
When preparing your files, remember that bleed and margin settings are crucial for a clean finish. We recommend a minimum 3mm bleed on all sides to avoid white edges after trimming. Colour settings should be CMYK for accurate printing results. Our team reviews every submission to ensure files meet print specifications and advise on any adjustments needed to maintain quality.
Eco-Friendly Printing Options
We’re proud to support sustainable printing practices. Our recycled paper stocks and environmentally friendly inks reduce your project’s carbon footprint. For clients wanting to showcase their commitment to sustainability, choosing recycled and FSC-certified materials sends a strong message without compromising on quality or finish.
Case Example: Perfect Bound Booklet for a Local Charity
Recently, we worked with a local charity to produce a 64-page perfect bound booklet detailing their impact and donor stories. They chose a 170gsm recycled silk paper for the cover and 130gsm uncoated recycled inside pages to provide a tactile, natural feel. The perfect binding gave the booklet a polished look that stood out at fundraising events. Our pre-press team helped optimise their artwork files to ensure crisp images and consistent colour, and the final printed books arrived on time and beautifully finished.
This project highlights how thoughtful material selection and binding choices enhance the message and professionalism of printed books.
Conclusion
Book printing and binding is a craft that benefits greatly from experience and expertise. At Newstyle Print, we combine the latest printing technology with a personal approach to guide you through every step, from materials to binding style and finishing touches. Whether you’re printing a few copies or thousands, understanding the options and planning accordingly ensures your books are as beautiful and functional as you envision. With the right knowledge and a trusted partner, your printed books can become timeless keepsakes or powerful marketing tools that make a lasting impression.
Ready to print? Contact Newstyle Print for a fast quote today.
Call 01572 771377 or email hello@newstyleprint.co.uk
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Updated on 1 November 2025
