Wire binding refers to most popular method of commercial book binding used in America and beyond. There are three different hole patterns that are used in this type of double hook wire binding. The three-holes-per-inch pattern is the most often used style for binding smaller documents. These holes can actually be square or rounded holes, and vary in size between 3/16″ and 9/16″ in diameter.
A two-holes-per-inch style is best for binding larger documents together as well as books that are small in diameter. The holes for this method of wire binding tend to be more rectangular though occasionally you will see square or round holes. Common sizes are 5/8″ up to 1-1/4 in diameter. Finally, there’s 19 loop wire style, which works with a 19-inch loop wire that is designed to be used with a plastic comb binding style. Holes for this method of binding are usually rectangular and size 9/16″ on the center.
The five steps to wire binding are as follows. First, you assemble the document with all pages and covers. Be sure to measure the book so you can know the right size of the spine. Next, you set up the binding machine so that the holes can be correctly centered on the paper and divide your document into appropriate sections. Now punch it with the wire binding machine. Your next step will be to hang the pages of the document on the C-wire spines. Finally, you move the pages of your document over to the wire closer and use the machine to squeeze the spine together. You will observe the C shaped spine turning into a near perfect O shape.
