What is Comb Binding?

White pages of a document joined by a red comb binding spine

estimated reading time: 3 minutes

What is Comb Bound?

Comb Binding is a time tested, reasonably priced, and professional looking book binding method. Comb bound books have durable spines made of PVC plastic. Each spine element is pre-formed into a cylindrical shape and has a series of curved ring-like tines along its entire length. The tines are flexible but hold a great deal of tension. This strong tension allows each tine to retain its circular shape.

Six colorful PVC spines used to create Comb Bound books — *Comb Binding spines are available in a variety of sizes and colors to suit just about any book project*

To create a book using the comb binding method, rectangular slots are first punched along one edge of the book's pages and cover sheets. This is done with the aid of a comb binding machine.

After all the pages have been punched and collated into a neat stack and the front and back covers are in place, the curved tines of the spine element are pulled open and inserted through the rectangular slots in the book's cover and pages.

When the tension in the tines is released, the tines return to their original circular shape and entrap the cover and pages. This keeps the book securely bound together yet allows the cover and pages to turn freely.

What are the Benefits of Comb Binding?

One of the main benefits of comb bound books is that they are able to lie completely flat when in the open position. Hence, an open book can be set on a desk, table, or other flat surface without the need to be manually held open for reading. This feature not only allows for more convenient referencing, it also leaves both hands free to perform other tasks, if needed.

A second benefit is that the circular tines of comb bound books can be spread open so pages can be added or removed. This is a very convenient feature for books that might require periodic updates. However, there is one caveat - the tines do contain some serious tension. So without a comb binding machine to help spread open the tines, it will take a little effort to re-open the tines manually.

An open Comb Bound book with a red cover — *Comb Bound books open 180+ degrees and can lie perfectly flat for hands-free use*

A third benefit of comb binding is that the plastic spine elements are available in different diameters to accommodate books of varying thicknesses. The spine diameters range from 1/4" to 2". The 1/4" diameter spine can bind as few as two sheets of paper, whereas the 2" diameter spine can bind a stack of sheets measuring up to 1-3/4" in thickness.

Another benefit offered by the comb binding method is that the durable, yet flexible spines hold the pages securely intact. Comb binding spines also work extremely well with tabbed page dividers.

What types of Book Projects use Comb Binding?

The versatility of comb binding makes it a practical choice for a wide array of binding applications. The hands-free feature makes comb binding particularly useful for assembly and maintenance guides, repair manuals, cookbooks, workbooks, study guides, bound sheet music, directories, planners, training and instruction manuals, travel guides, presentation books, product and price lists, and any other books that would benefit from the convenience of being able to lie flat for easier reference.

Multi-page wall calendars are sometimes bound with the comb binding method because it allows the pages to turn easily and also allows the calendar to hang flush against the wall.

Why it is called Comb Binding?

The "comb" in comb binding refers to the series of tines positioned along the spine. If all the circular tines were opened and the spine was pressed down flat, it would resemble a large hair comb.

A stack of different colored Comb Bound books — *Comb Binding is an economical and versatile book binding method*

Comb binding is sometimes referred to generically as "Plastic Comb Binding" or "Spiral Comb Binding", as well as by the trade names of "Surelox" or "Cerlox." Comb binding is also referred to as GBC Comb Binding after the General Binding Corporation, a major supplier of binding products.

Be sure to contact Color Vision for Comb Bound Book Printing!

If you have any questions about Comb Binding or have a project that's a good fit for this "punch and bind" style of book creation, give Color Vision Printing a call at 800-543-6299.

Or, if you have your project's specifications handy and are looking for a price quote, simply fill out our Quote Request form and we'll be happy to email a quote to you.

Color Vision specializes in custom book printing, so we're always glad to help. We look forward to assisting with your printing and binding needs!