Binding Half-Letter Size Books

Many of today's binding machines are designed for use with letter-sized paper (8.5” x 11”). However, at some point you may find yourself needing to bind a document using half-letter paper that measures 8.5” x 5.5”. Luckily, there are a few ways you can do this if you're going to be binding along the 8.5” side of the paper. Here is what you need to keep in mind about binding half-letter sized documents:

• You need to use a binding machine that has disengageable punching dies. If you punch your paper and the machine lacks disengageable dies, you will end up with a hole hanging off the edge of the paper.
• If your machine has disengageable dies, it's time to think about binding supplies. Here are some of your options:
• Plastic combs are available in 8.5” lengths. You might want to keep some on-hand so you have them when you need them.
• Many color coils are 12” long but they can easily be trimmed down for half-letter sized documents. There are also 9” coils on the market.
• Twin-loop wire spines look great and you can special order ones that are 8.5” long. If you have a pair of wire cutters, you can also cut down a longer spine and use it.
• VeloBind strips are also available in 8.5” lengths. They can be used with VeloBind One, Two, and Three machines.
• Finally, GBC ProClick and ZipBind spines can be cut with a pair of scissors in order to bind your work.
• Make sure you have paper and covers that are the right size for your half-letter sized documents. If you need to trim larger pieces of paper, you can easily do so with a guillotine cutter or rotary trimmer. Also, you might want to consider using clear plastic covers. They come in different sizes and there are some that are perfect for half-letter sized documents.

As you can see, it's definitely possible to bind half-letter sized documents. The main thing to keep in mind is that you'll need a binding machine with disengageable punching dies. As long as you have one and the appropriate supplies, you'll find that binding your documents is a snap. Give it a try today.