Plastic Comb Binding FAQs

Plastic comb binding is one of the most popular styles of binding. If you’re reading this, you probably have some questions about this binding style, and are wondering what its benefits are and what it can be used for. So here are the most frequently asked questions – with corresponding answers – about plastic comb binding.  

1. What is plastic comb binding?

It is an easy way to add a professional look to your reports, catalogs, cookbooks, and any other documents you want to bind. The document is bound using a plastic spine that has teeth and resembles a comb, hence the term “comb binding.”  

2. Is plastic comb binding better for the home or office?

It’s good for both! Crafters can find a multitude of uses for a comb-binding machine, such as assembling photo albums and scrapbooks. Businesses can bind reports and marketing materials. Comb binding machines can even be used by schools and churches. Anyone can use one!  

3. What’s so great about comb binding?

First, it’s inexpensive, especially when compared to other binding methods. Basic comb-binding machines often cost less than $400, so it doesn’t take a lot of money to get started. The materials are also cheap: all you need to bind is some paper (even photocopier paper will work), something for the cover, and the plastic combs. Another great thing about this binding method is that documents bound with plastic combs can be reopened, so you can edit your work even after it’s bound. Finally, combs are available in many different colors and can be imprinted with your company’s name, logo, and/or the title of your document.  

4. What are important factors to consider when buying a comb binding machine?

What to look for in a comb-binding machine greatly depends on your budget, how many people are going to be using the machine, and how often the machine will be used. Some key things to consider include:

• Warranty and construction. How well-built is the machine? What’s the warranty like?
• How much control do you want? If you want a machine that can bind documents of different sizes, look for a machine with disengageable dies. (Dies are the teeth that punch the holes in your work.) If controlling the placement of the holes is important because you’ll be using combs of different thicknesses, a depth of punch margin control is a must-have. You might also want to look for a machine that allows you to punch and bind at the same time.
• What’s the machine designed for? If you’re an individual or a small business owner who will only be binding occasionally, a personal-sized machine is ideal. However, for higher-volume outfits such as copy centers, a professional-grade machine or power punch should be purchased. Machines such as these can greatly speed up the binding process.

 

5. Can I use my comb binding machine with other types of binding supplies, such as spiral coils?

You cannot use plastic coils with these machines, however there is a product called “Spiral-O Metal Binding” that uses the same holes as plastic comb binding. All you would need is a Wire closer to finish off this binding method.