Discover this age-old bookmaking technique
At MILK Books, we draw on our award-winning publishing heritage and bookmaking expertise to help you create high quality photo books and albums that will be enjoyed for generations. After decades of experience in bookmaking, we use three binding processes – section-sewn binding, lay-flat binding, and PUR binding – to ensure the enduring quality of every MILK memento.
Among these methods, section-sewn binding, used in our Premium Photo Books and Moleskine Photo Books, reflects our commitment to upholding both quality and age-old bookmaking techniques. Discover everything to know about section-sewn binding and why it’s our preferred method.
What is section-sewn binding?
Section-sewn binding is an age-old bookbinding technique that’s still widely used today for its exceptional durability, strength and elegance. Also known as stitched binding, this method involves sections of folded pages, or “signatures”, being bound together with thread. Signatures are then stitched together to form what is called a book block that is glued along the binding edge to securely seal the spine.
This method is vastly different to PUR binding (a popular glue binding method) where pages are held together by an adhesive only. As each section of pages is individually stitched, section-sewn binding remains strong and flexible even after years of use.
1. Bound to last
Unlike an adhesive-only book binding method, section-sewn offers long-lasting strength. Glue can always deteriorate if not looked after or stored in the incorrect environment, causing pages to loosen or detach over time. With stitched or section-sewn binding, it’s the thread that keeps pages securely bound, ensuring they won’t come undone with age or frequent handling. The longevity of section-sewn binding makes it the method of choice for our Premium Photo Books and Moleskine Photo Books.
2. Optimal flexibility for an easy viewing experience
A unique feature of section-sewn books is the slight “looseness” you may be able to see or feel in the pages. This is intentional and designed to give the pages a gentle “give”. The extra flexibility allows for easy and frequent viewing, without compromising the integrity of the book’s structure. Unlike glue binding which can feel somewhat rigid on first open, a section-sewn photo book will open comfortably, allowing you to turn pages with ease.
3. Near lay-flat experience across all page counts
Another benefit of section-sewn binding is its near lay-flat capabilities. Premium Photo Books and Moleskine Photo Books when opened will lay almost completely flat regardless of the number of pages. This feature allows you to have your most-loved photos span across a double page-spread with minimal loss of detail to the gutter, unlike PUR bound books with stiffer spines.
4. Preserving the art of traditional bookmaking
More than just a binding technique, our section-sewn photo books reflect the craft and care we put into our products. For centuries, bookmakers have relied on this method to produce books that withstand regular use while maintaining their quality and integrity. While today’s digital printing and modern technology allows for new, efficient and more cost-effective alternatives, we continue to use this timeless technique to bring customers the best of both tradition and innovation.
5. The unique features of section-sewn binding
When you receive your section-sewn Premium or Moleskine Photo Book, you might notice slight variations like tiny holes or visible thread. Holes are made to allow the thread to pass through each signature, varying slightly based on needle placement and paper thickness. When the thread loops through the center of each signature, it becomes visible within the gutter and keeps the binding secure. You may also have slight visibility of any full-bleed images used on a corresponding page, with slight variation in alignment, such as up to 0.7mm per page or 1mm across two pages. These features are all natural and expected results and highlight the handcrafted art and precision of section-sewn binding.
In section-sewn books, you may notice that the first and last pages feel less ‘flexible’ than internal pages. This is because during the casing-in process, the book block is attached to the cover using endpapers, creating a secure connection between the two. This process is a standard part of the binding process and ensures the durability of your keepsake. It does mean the first and last pages aren’t likely to lay near flat and you should avoid pressing down on them to prevent damage.
For a keepsake that will withstand years of use and showcase your most-loved memories beautifully, section-sewn binding is a superior choice. At MILK Books, we’re proud to use this binding method in our Premium and Moleskine Photo Books, confident that we’re upholding both traditional techniques and modern technology to ensure your precious photo memories last for generations.
