Blankbook binding workers bind blank pages to produce notebooks, checkbooks, address books, diaries, calendars, and note pads. Some binding consists of only one step. Preparing leaflets or newspaper inserts, for example, requires only folding. Binding of books, on the other hand, requires a number of steps. These are summarized below.
Bookbinders assemble books from large, flat, printed sheets of paper.
Many skilled bookbinders also bind magazines. Machines are used extensively throughout the process. Skilled bookbinders operate machines that first fold printed sheets into units known as signatures, which are groups of pages arranged sequentially. Bookbinders then sew, stitch, or glue the assembled signatures together, shape the book bodies with presses and trimming machines, and reinforce them with glued fabric strips. Covers are created separately, and glued, pasted, or stitched onto the book bodies.