Is it possible to do custom book binding by using a comb binding machine? This is a question a customer recently presented me last week. Is it possible? Yes. I will explain exactly what you need.

In this situation, the customer wanted to bind a booklet that was only 4-inches long. The customer wanted to use comb binding because of affordability. Comb binding continues to be one of the most affordable book binding formats available today.

She told me it was for a family reunion and she wanted to include pictures, a few family recipes and other mementos. She wanted the book to be smaller because she thought it looked more unique and cute.

Here is what I recommended:

• Comb Binding Machine – I recommended that she use a comb binding machine with selectable punching pins. This makes it possible to punch holes in smaller paper without half-punched holes on the edges. In this case I recommended the Akiles EcoBind-C (found here). It fit the volume she was binding and is one of the best quality machines in its class.
• Comb Binding Supplies – I told her she would need to purchase standard 11-inch comb binding supplies and cut them down to the 4-inch size she needed. You can get two 4-inch combs out of an 11-inch comb. She was concerned it wouldn’t look good. I informed her that many people use scissors or paper cutters to cut down combs and it looks great.
• Book Binding Covers – I recommended that she use a card stock back and a clear cover. The card stock cover on the back looks classy and the clear cover on the front would make it possible to see the cover sheet on her booklet.

There you have it. It isn’t very complicated. The binding machine is the biggest investment, but ultimately will last for years, easily making up the cost when compared to outsourcing the project. Comb binding supplies are just pennies on the dollar per piece.

Do you still have questions about custom comb binding? Call us at 1-800-658-8788 to speak with one of our specialists. You are also more than welcome to post your question in a comment. Have a great day!

There are a few things you should know about comb-binding supplies if you own a comb-binding machine. First of all, did you know that binding combs are still one of the most widely used binding supplies? Did you also know that comb-binding supplies are still one of the most economical and affordable binding supplies?

Here are a few additional comb binding supply facts that you may find interesting:

• Binding combs are available in diameters as small as 3/16-inch and as large as two inches.
• Binding combs can be re-used multiple times without any outward signs of wear.
• Binding combs are extremely durable, able to withstand a lot of wear and tear.
• Binding combs are available in more than 10 different colors.
• Comb binding supplies allow you to easily add or remove pages.
• Binding combs are referred to as combs because the fingers loosely resemble those found on a hair comb.

I personally really like the simplicity and affordability of comb binding machines and supplies. You will find our entire selection of comb binding supplies here.