Hardcover – thread sewn - Totem Printing House

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Cover generator

Extremely durable, robust and the most processed form of binding, guaranteed to last for many years of use. The pages (folded sheets) are bound with threads and the book block is protected by a hard board case covered with hard-wearing material. Optionally, foam can be used in the case to make the cover soft to touch.

It is perfect for high-class, sophisticated publications, especially art and photo albums, premium planners, and any books inspired by old prints and manuscripts, such as reprints and facsimiles.

Best use

fiction, poetry, albums, textbooks, calendars and planners, scientific and professional publications, collector’s publications

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The use of appropriate materials (e.g. wastepaper, non-coated cover materials) and natural components (e.g. cotton or hemp threads) makes the book completely biodegradable. We offer 100% recycled paper, FSC-certified and carrying the EU Ecolabel, manufactured using environmentally-friendly technologies.

Options

Format

min.

100 × 100 mm
max

270 × 380 mm (portrait) / 275 x 210 mm (album)

Book block thickness

min.

4 mm
max

65 mm

Cover materials

Various types of paper are available, including textured paper, cloth, cork and eco-leather.

Cover extras

We can use different thread colours for the sheets, printed or mass-dyed end papers, and straight or rounded spine (up to 13 mm thickness). Depending on the intended use of your publication, we can add, for example, a band closure or a pen holder (ideal for planners, organizers and notebooks), bound bookmarks in various colours, and corner protectors. For albums and belles lettres, we recommend dust wrappers and wraparound bands.

Read more about the accessories and cover extras here.

Enhancements

The appeal of a book in a hard case can be improved by cover enhancements. In the case of hardcovers, we particularly recommend hot stamping with metallized foil, debossing and spot varnishing. Additionally, to protect the cover and extend its durability, we recommend lamination.

Read more about the available enhancements here.

Examples

Some examples of our products with this type of binding

Learn about the benefits of working with us.

Frequently asked questions

What is the price difference between a softcover and a hardcover?

It is impossible to provide a definite figure, because a number of factors affect the price, such as format, volume and print run. Assuming some average parameters: B5, 160 pages and 200 copies, a thread-sewn hardcover would be approx. PLN 5.00 (net) more expensive per copy than a perfect-bound softcover.

I am hesitating between a thread-sewn and a perfect-bound hard cover. Which one should I choose?

We always recommend thread-sewing for hard covers. Thread-sewn covers ensure total durability and – above all – complete openabilty of the book block. Perfect binding is reserved only for thin paper.

How many enhancements can be used in a cover design?

As a matter of fact, as many as will fit on the cover. There are no technological constraints in this respect. We can use a few different types of varnish at the same time, and add hot foil stamping or embossing. However, note that using a lot of enhancements altogether does not necessarily make the final product more attractive or impressive.

Can I order a thread for my book in a colour other than white?

Of course. We offer a few dozen of thread colours. We actually recommend using customised colour, especially in open spine products. If the inside of the book contains black solids, we recommend a black thread.

What is the best paper for my publication?

This question is too general to give a definite answer. When choosing the paper for the main part of the book, many aspects have to be considered, including the nature or type of publication, its purpose, dimensions, readers, and even the available budget. First, we need to answer a few elementary questions, e.g. whether the paper should be white, cream or off-white, coated or uncoated, standard or recycled. Providing such descriptive details will be enough for us to suggest the best paper for your book.