Using A Comb Binding Machine

Comb binding is one of the most commonly used binding methods

, and there are some very good reasons for that. Comb binding machines are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, supplies are cheap and readily available, and the finished books are sturdy and functional. If you are new to the world of comb binding, here are a few tips to help you get started.

Basic Setup

There are a couple of adjustments you will have to make depending on the size of the sheets you are punching and binding, and the thickness of the document you are putting together. On most machines, you will find a black piece of plastic on the front of the machine on your left. You can move this piece of plastic to adjust to the size of the paper you are using. The vast majority of the documents that you put together will be letter sized (8.5 x 11), and the markings for those will be very clear on your machine.

You will also want to take care to adjust the depth of the margin depending on the thickness of your document. For the sake of functionality and sturdiness, thinner documents should be punched further from the edge of the pages, while thicker books should have holes that are closer to the edge. The depth of margin punch control is usually controlled by a wheel on the left side of your machine (though not all machines have this feature).

When you have done your pre punching adjustments, you will want to punch a few test sheets to see if you are happy with it.

Punching Your Pages

There are some things to consider before you start punching your printed pages. The first thing to keep in mind is that, though your machine has a punching capacity stated by the manufacturer, sometimes these numbers can be a little bit inflated. As such, it is probably best to punch just a couple fewer sheets than your machine claims it can handle at one time. This way you will get cleaner punches, and the punching dies on your machine will experience less wear and tear. Also, as stated above, it is always a good idea to do some test punches before you start with your printed material jst to make sure everything is lined up correctly.

Punch your pages and covers in order, and collate them.

Binding Your Document

First, take a second to make sure that all your pages are perfectly straight. Then place the plastic comb into the comb opener with the spine facing toward the back. Then work the lever that is located on the right of the machine and push it backwards. You will notice that the metal teeth of the machine open the plastic teeth of the comb. Take this opportunity to align the holes of your pages up correctly with the teeth of the binding comb. Then, pull the lever toward you and the teeth will close as the book is bound. Take that first bound document out of the machine, and repeat as necessary.

by: Jeffrey McRitchie

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