Page Count and Layout Structure
Wire-O does not require page counts in multiples of four.
Prepress Recommendations
- Page increment
- Pages can be added in increments of two (one sheet)
- Page layout
- Build as single pages in sequential order Avoid reader spreads unless specifically required by the printer
Binding Orientation
- Odd-numbered pages
- Binding on the left
- Even-numbered pages
- Binding on the right
Plan layout so artwork remains clear of the punching area on the correct side for each page.
Binding Margin and Safe Zone
Binding Margin (Gutter)
- Recommended range
- 3/8 inch to 7/8 inch Depends on wire size and project thickness
This margin prevents text loss from punching and artwork falling into the wire loop.
Safe Zone
- Minimum clearance from bound edge
- 10 mm (0.4 inch) Inside the trim line
Applies to page numbers, logos, rules, borders, and critical imagery.
Bleed and Trim Requirements
Standard Bleed
- All four sides
- 1/8 inch (3 mm)
Even though the binding edge is punched, bleed must still extend to trim size. Files without bleed risk white edges after finishing.
Wire Size Selection
Wire size is determined by book thickness. Adequate clearance ensures pages turn freely without excessive slack.
Wire Sizing Formula
- Formula
- Book thickness + 3/16 inch = recommended wire size
Back Gate Clearance
- 1/4 inch to 9/16 inch wire
- 1/4 inch back gate
- 5/8 inch to 1 inch wire
- 3/8 inch back gate
Back gate is the clearance needed behind the punch area for proper wire closure. Layout must account for this when positioning artwork near the binding edge.
Cover Treatment
Cover Options
- Structure
- Separate front and back pages Or included as part of total page count
- Supported materials
- Laminated paper, rigid card, plastic film, PVC, vinyl
- Heavy covers
- Require larger binding margins and appropriate wire sizing
Collation
Digitally printed book blocks may arrive pre-collated when the project contains only standard pages. If the project includes any specialty components, Puget Bindery expects to receive materials uncollated and will handle all gathering and assembly in-house.
Requires Bindery Collation
- Tab dividers
- Must be collated by bindery
- Inserts
- Must be collated by bindery
- Fold-outs
- Must be collated by bindery
- Die-cut components
- Must be collated by bindery
- Short sheets
- Must be collated by bindery
- Litho-printed sections
- Must be collated by bindery
Inserting specialty components into pre-collated text blocks is not a standard service. If this is required, contact your CSR to discuss feasibility before production.
Design Considerations
Crossovers
- Center spread continuity
- Avoid critical images spanning across facing pages Wire loop interrupts visual continuity
- Text alignment across spread
- Not recommended
The physical gap between facing pages is larger than in perfect binding or saddle stitching.
Tabs and Extensions
- Extended elements
- Tabs, covers, and planner sections may extend beyond interior page size
- Tab clearance
- Must clear the wire loop
- Punch alignment
- Confirm with finishing templates
Quick Reference
File Preparation
- Pages built as single pages in sequential order
- Binding margin set between 3/8 inch and 7/8 inch
- 10 mm safe zone maintained on bound edge
- 1/8 inch bleed included on all four sides
- Crossovers avoided or approved by production
- Wire size confirmed using thickness + 3/16 inch formula
- Back gate clearance accounted for in layout
- Covers prepared as independent pages if required
- Page numbering checked for binding orientation
When to Contact Puget Bindery
- Book thickness exceeds typical ranges
- Heavy covers or specialty materials are used
- Oversized tabs extend beyond trim
- Exact punch spacing is required for templates