June 2008: Component Folding Takes on Many Forms

Component folding is any piece that runs through a folder that is to be used in another operation or with another form. Examples include:

• Signatures for saddle stitching, mechanical binding or any other book form
• Fold out forms for binding in with other products
• Maps bound or inserted into other products
• Gate folded covers
• Folded bound in forms for direct mail, saddle stitched or any other application
• Inserts for pocket folders
• MOE or MOB

Above are some of the various types of component folding
projects produced by Rapid Bind.

In short, component folding takes on many forms at Rapid Bind. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your next component folding job is done right and on time:

• It's essential to pre-engineer your job prior to printing. Work backward from finished product towards the printed piece. Don't plan a folded component until the details of the main project are clear.
• Check the head, foot and face trims. If you have forms with foldouts, the face must be undersized to ensure the fold isn't cut off during the final trim. All these details have to be integrated into the engineering of the job and discussed with your binding partner so the project progresses as intended.
• For direct mail, the key is letting us know that your layout can be quickly converted. Don't print it without verifying that we're going to be able to produce it efficiently for you. The earlier we catch potential problems, the faster you'll get your job into the USPS mail stream.

The Rapid Bind Advantage
We don't say "Our Business is Folding" for nothing! We operate a complete range of folding equipment with two shifts to ensure fast turnaround of even the highest-volume folding projects. From miniature inserts to maps and everything in between, Rapid Bind is your single resource for folding – and mechanical binding, saddle stitching, remoist, fugitive and seam gluing, die cutting and more!