Fastback Composition Strips

Strip width is based on the thickness of the fully assembled document, including covers, inserts, and heavier sheets. Measure the document after all pages are gathered and squared. A strip that is too narrow may not cover the spine correctly or provide sufficient adhesive contact. A strip that is much wider than necessary can leave an oversized spine and reduce the finished document’s appearance. Use the manufacturer’s sizing chart for the strip family and avoid estimating only from sheet count. Paper weight, coated pages, divider tabs, and cover thickness can significantly change the final measurement even when two documents contain the same number of pages.

Composition Strips have a textured surface and work across Fastback 9, 11, 15xs, and 20 machines. Super Strips work with Fastback 11, 15xs, and 20, but not Fastback 9. The correct option therefore depends first on the machine model, followed by the desired appearance and document requirements. Fastback Super Strips may suit compatible machines when their finish and application are preferred. Never substitute one strip family solely because the length and width appear similar. The adhesive construction and machine settings are designed around specific strip types.

Strip length should match the edge being bound. Standard letter-size portrait documents usually bind along the 11-inch side, while other paper sizes and orientations may require a different length. Measure the actual binding edge, especially when pages have been trimmed or when a landscape document is being produced. The strip should cover the full spine without extending noticeably beyond either end. Keep strip lengths separated and clearly labeled in shared production areas because similar colors can make them difficult to distinguish. If several document formats are produced regularly, record the approved strip length and width for each one.

Composition Strips are useful when a textured, professional spine is preferred and compatibility is needed across several Fastback machine models. They work well for reports, manuals, proposals, reference documents, and other materials requiring a secure thermal strip bind. Organizations using a Fastback 9 alongside later compatible models may also find them easier to standardize than machine-specific alternatives. The complete range of Fastback binding supplies should still be reviewed as a system so covers and finishing materials suit the intended document. Select strip size according to measured thickness rather than the document’s general purpose.