Edge decorating a book is a valuable addition because it enhances both the visual appeal and durability of the finished piece. Whether through gilding, staining, or digital printing, decorated edges transform a book from a simple object into a work of art, adding character, elegance, and a sense of craftsmanship. Beyond aesthetics, edge treatments can also help protect the pages from dust, moisture, and wear, making the book last longer. For collectors, gift editions, or custom projects, edge decoration offers a unique way to personalize and elevate a book, turning it into something truly special and memorable.
Digital print names/scenes/images directly onto the head, foot, and face of a book. This process can be done on both coated and uncoated stocks.
The more detailed design…the better!
Digital printing allows for detailed images, patterns, gradients, and even text (like titles or branding) on the page edges. Each book can have a different design — making this ideal for personalized editions, limited runs, or promotional materials. Digital printing also ensures clean, consistent results across large print runs, which is hard to achieve with traditional methods. When properly finished (e.g., with a UV coating or lamination), the printed edges can be smudge-resistant and long-lasting.
Digital edge printing is most commonly used on perfect-bound, hardcover, or case-bound books, especially those with untrimmed block edges before printing.
Typically gilding involves applying a thin layer of foil to the head, foot and face of the text block on your book. This process can be done on both coated and uncoated stocks, and creating a brilliant, reflective surface that serves both aesthetic and protective purposes.
BindTech offer various color options, beyond the traditional silver and gold style.
Aesthetic Beauty: Gives a sense of luxury and craftsmanship.
Protection: Seals the paper from moisture, dust, and air exposure.
Value Addition: Enhances collectible and antique value of a book.
Staining is a method of book edge decoration where the edges of a book’s pages are colored using dyes or pigments, rather than metallic leaf (as in gilding) or printed designs (as in digital edge printing). It’s often a simpler and more affordable technique that still provides aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.
At BindTech we spray a solid colored die on the head, foot and face of your book. Stains can be PMS matched and work best on uncoated stocks. Typically the stains are water or poly based, and there can be some color inconsistencies due the manual process. But again this is a more affordable option.
Economical: Generally speaking, staining is the more cost effective options when compared to gilding or digital edge printing.
Protective: Helps seal the paper against dust and light, providing a protective finish.
Decorative: Adds visual appeal, especially in sets or collections, making your project one of a kind.
Functional: Color-coded edges help identify volumes (e.g., legal or medical texts).
Elevate your book printing project with BindTech.
