Create Your Own Custom Photo Book or Hardcover Book

Have you ever wanted to create your very own photo book or hardcover document? If so, you'll be happy to know that it's easy to do. All you need are some supplies and a little bit of time. Let's get started.

To start, you're going to need to gather up your supplies. Here's what you need:

• A binding machine that can make hardcover documents.
• A cold laminator that can apply adhesive to materials. One option is the Xyron 900 Creative Station Laminator.
• Your printed document including a title page.
• A hardcover binding case.

Now that you have your supplies ready, here's how to make your own hardcover book:

1. Make sure the pages of your document are in the right order and are perfectly flush with one another. Include any end leaves if desired.
2. Put your document in a hardcover case and place it in your thermal binding machine. Doing so will cause the adhesive in the spine to melt which will bind your book. The binding process shouldn't take too long. Most thermal binding devices can complete a cycle in about a minute or so. When the cycle is done, remove the document from the device and place it in a crimper to secure the binding. Then let the book cool off. (Note: If you used a Unibind machine, you don't need to use a crimper.)
3. Now it's time to make a front cover label for your document. After the front cover looks right, print it out and run it through your cold laminator. Make sure to laminate one side of the label and apply adhesive to the back.
4. After you've run the label through the laminator, peel the lining off the back. Carefully position the label on your document, ensuring that it's square. Apply the label when you're satisfied with the position of it.
5. Finally, smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles that may be marring the look of the cover. You now have your very own hardcover document or photo book!

Making your own photo books and hardcover documents is incredibly easy. Be sure to give it try so you can see for yourself how easy it is.

If you have any other questions or comments about this article please feel free to
email us at sales@mybinding.com or call us at 1-800-944-4573

Written by Jeff McRitchie
©2011 www.MyBinding.com