Wondering if it’s worth investing in sewn books instead of gluing? This is a question that many publishers, authors and print contracting companies are asking themselves. Although glued binding is cheaper and faster to implement, in practice sewn books have many advantages that are appreciated especially in everyday use. Here are 6 reasons why you should consider sewing instead of glue.
1. Sewn books are much more durable
One of the most important arguments for sewing is durability. Glued binding (such as PUR or Hotmelt gluing) can lose its properties over time – especially with frequent use of the book, bending of the spine or exposure to changing weather conditions. In such cases, the glue may crack or peel away from the paper.
Sewn books are created in the process of joining the folds with thread, so that the whole creates a coherent and resistant structure. Even after repeatedly opening the book, the pages do not fall out, and the spine retains its original shape.
2. Sewn books open better
This is a huge difference noticeable as soon as you pick up the book. Sewn binding allows for a much wider opening without the risk of damaging the spine. Such a book unfolds almost flat, which makes it easier both to read and to view illustrations or photos.
For whom is this important?
- For teachers and students (textbooks),
- for companies printing catalogs,
- for publishers of cookbooks or art books,
- for people who like to take notes or highlight in books.
3. Better resistance to storage and transport conditions
Sewn books are much less sensitive to changes in temperature or humidity. Even after months in storage or after repeated transport, they still hold up solidly. In the case of glued books, especially those with a large volume, the center can become unglued or the paper can ripple.
If you plan to sell by mail order, store books in different locations or ship them to bookstores – sewn binding is a safer choice.
4. More opportunities for offset printing
Offset printing is most often used for larger print runs (e.g., from 500 pieces and up). In such projects, sewn and glued binding is the standard, as it guarantees:
- Back stability even with 300+ pages,
- precise alignment of folds,
- possibility to paste liners and accessories (ribbons, capitals),
- better fit with hard cover.
If you are printing a book to represent a brand – sewing is a more professional solution.
5. Aesthetics of sewn books
At first glance, it may seem that the glued binding does not visually differ from the sewn binding. But on closer inspection the differences are visible to the naked eye – especially on the spine. Sewn books lay more evenly, without “bulges” from the glue. In addition, the folds are more precisely fitted, which is important, for example, with spreads or graphics on adjacent pages.
Moreover, sewing makes it possible to make books with more pages without thickening the spine – which translates into a better appearance of the whole publication.
6. Less problems with thick books
Books with more than 200 pages are a real challenge to glue – the glue may not hold the center, and the spine bends when opened. In the sewn version, the folds are stapled every 16 or 32 pages, making the spine more flexible and durable.
If you are planning an album, guidebook, encyclopedia or richly illustrated book, sewn and glued binding is the safest solution.
Summary: when is it worth choosing bound books?
Not every book needs to be sewn – for small print runs and short publications, gluing is sometimes sufficient. But if you care about quality, durability and professional effect – sewn binding will work much better. It’s a choice that both the end user and your brand will appreciate.