At ABC Office, we sell both standard and oversized report covers. Standard size covers measure in at 8 ½ x 11-inches, while oversized covers measure in at 8 ¾ x 11 ¼-inches. Standard report covers have square corners while oversized report covers have rounded corners. So why would you want an oversized cover?

Many binding formats, like coil or comb, bind paper in a way that the edges aren’t always squared up. Some people do not like this look. With oversized covers, the bound document maintains a more “organized” look.

Another reason some people use oversized covers is if the bound document includes tabs. Oversized covers help protect and cover tabs. Card stock report covers, poly covers and clear covers all come in oversized formats.

Standard 8 ½ x 11 sheets are still more popular, but oversized covers definitely have plenty of supporters. You can find our entire selection of report covers here.

How can you make your report or book look more professional? Here are a few tips that will take your bound report from OK to classy.

When binding a report, many people will create a title page or decorative cover on their computer, print it out and bind it to the front page of their booklet. This isn’t always the most professional look. I highly recommend using a report cover to improve the overall look and appearance.

The most common report cover combination is to use a clear cover for the front and a solid card stock cover for the back. This combination looks clean and professional. Clear covers come in different thicknesses, depending on your preference. Card stock covers are available in a variety of textures, colors and styles. You can find our report covers and clear covers here.

The style of binding can also dramatically change the look of your document. Changing from a plastic comb to double-loop wire look can add an extra degree of professionalism to a document. The style of binding you use will depend on the situation, but double-loop wire and coil binding are very popular for professional reports. You can find our book binding machines here.

Using one or more of these tips will really add an extra dimension to your bound report or book. Good luck!