Catalogues, magazines, notebooks (Stapled binding)

Saddle stitching is a popular method for binding printed sheets into a catalog, booklet, or magazine. It is an affordable type of bookbinding, where a machine uses metal wire to bind multiple sheets together by stitching them in the spine with two staples, folding them in half, and trimming the final format from the front side.

Saddle stitching allows for binding publications with a page count of 8-80 pages, or 4-20 sheets. Catalogs with a page count of 8-24 pages are typically printed on thinner paper, while for a higher page count (28 pages or more), a thicker cover or booklet is recommended for better compactness, typically laminated with a protective film. The total number of pages for printing a catalog should always be divisible by 4 (16, 20, 24, 28 pages, etc.)!

Preparing a catalog for printing that will be saddle-stitched requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that the final product looks professional and is functional. Every step in the catalog design process requires attention to detail and strategic thinking. To define the purpose and target audience, think carefully about what you want to achieve with your printed catalog.

With thorough planning and quality execution, you can create an effective and attractive catalog that will achieve the desired goals. First, gather all the necessary information you want to include in the catalog (clear and accurate product descriptions, product prices, high-resolution images, contact details, etc.).

Depending on the number of images and texts you want to highlight, choose the final format of the catalog (A4 or A5) and the orientation of the catalog, which can be portrait or landscape. Choose the appropriate graphic software (we recommend Adobe InDesign) to facilitate the layout and design of the catalog.

Based on all the data, develop the basic page layout, including a grid for placing elements on the pages. Define font style and size, color schemes, and other design elements to be used in the catalog. Consider including sections, a table of contents, and other navigational aids, and organize the content logically and visually attractively.

Once the catalog is designed, the next step is printing. First, you need to decide on the paper selection, which can be coated, uncoated, or perhaps 100% recycled. All papers are available in various weights, with the choice depending on the number of pages. The rule of thumb is that the larger the page count, the thinner the paper should be.

We also highlight the option of enhancing the catalog cover. You can choose to print with a relief transparent varnish (3D UV Spot) or metalized foil printing in gold or silver. 3D effects not only look great but also improve the tactile experience, which can increase interaction with the product. This is especially important in the luxury product segment.