Thesis & Dissertation Binding : FAQ's

Before You Contact us.
Make sure all of your pages are printed correctly, that each copy is complete and in the right order and that you have a copy of and understand the University’s binding requirements.

Which University's do you bind books for?
Although the majority of our work comes from Bournemouth University the high quality of our work meets the critriea for all other University's.

Can you print my thesis or dissertation?
We do not print your documents 'on site' but can organise the print for you if required, please contact us for details. We are also happy to recommend a number of local printers if you require. If you need us to supply the print, you will need to supply your document as a PDF file.

What Paper should I use to produce my document for binding?
For Glue and Channel Binding it is recommended that you use a good quality 80gsm or 90gsm paper. Beware of using "fancy" papers, which may be thicker than normal and will not be flexible enough to make the bound volume easy to read. We are restricted to a maximum number of 140 sheets of 80gsm or 120 sheets of 90gsm when using the hardback or soft back channel bind.

For Case or Thesis Binding there is no restriction on paper weight or numbers of pages but a good quality 100gsm works best.

What margins are required for binding?
We prefer a 4cm margin on the spine or binding edge for sewing and 1.5 to 2cm on the other three edges. If you have used Microsoft Word to produce your work then the standard margins will be acceptable. Our minimum requirement is 2.5cm on the bind edge. Ensure that foldouts and diagrams produced have reasonable margins and that page numbers, headers and footers are positioned no less than 1cm away from the edge.

What if I want to include photographs?
One or two pages of photos are ok but it is better to colour print on to thin A4 photo paper or have the pictures colour copied on to A4.

Can I include large maps or graphs?
Yes, but you have to think about how they will open when bound and allow plenty of margin. Try not to include maps that are larger than the finished volume. You may decide to put the map in a pocket at the back of the volume. Please contact us we will be happy to advise.

Please tell us if foldouts are included with in your text as we trim your pages prior to binding.

What about CD's etc.?
These items can be included using pocket at the back of the volume or they can be boxed as a separate item. Please contact us we will be happy to advise.

Does size matter?
We can bind anything up to 7cm thick but remember that thick and heavy volumes are difficult to read and do not last as long. We recommend that your books should be no more than 5cm thick. Please note we do not charge extra to bind thick documents.

We can bind volumes larger than A4. Price on application.

Can I post my document to you for binding?
Yes, we receive about 20% of our work this way: package it up well and address it to P J Wellman, 19 Ebor Road , Parkstone, Poole , Dorset . BH12 2JS. Please include the compleated order form and a covering letter detailing what you want, along with a contact phone number and your cheque made payable to, "P J Wellman". Allow an extra day for delivery by post.

Remember that we cannot take responsibility for your poor packing and items lost or damaged in the post.

For an additional charge we can also return the bound volumes to you by recorded delivery.