Spiral Bound Book Printing
Spiral bound book printing is ideal for workbooks, manuals, cookbooks, planners, reports, and training guides that need to open 360° lay-flat, turn smoothly, and stand up to daily use. At QinPrinting, you can customize size, paper, and coil color in plastic or metal single coil, add tabs, pockets, and tear-off forms, and choose side-bound or top-bound formats. Low MOQs, fast turnaround, and consistent color make it easy to create professional spiral books for schools, teams, and businesses—at a cost that fits your budget.
Spiral Bound Book Printing Price Calculator
based on your choices
What's the Maximum Page Count for a Spiral-Bound Book?
Spiral coils come in two types and size ranges: plastic single coil Ø 6–25 mm (≈ 1/4″–1″) and metal single coil Ø 7–42 mm (≈ 9/32″–1-5/8″). For smooth page turns, choose a coil that’s slightly larger than the finished book block so the pages aren’t compressed.
Planning guide (100 gsm offset interior):
- Plastic single coil: recommended max finished thickness ~21 mm (≈ 0.83″) — about 360 pages.
- Metal single coil: recommended max finished thickness ~38 mm (≈ 1.50″) — about 640 pages.
Actual capacity varies with paper caliper and finishes. Don’t forget to include the front cover, back cover, any tabs, pockets, or laminated pages in your total thickness.
Compared with plastic, metal single coil is custom-made per order, so it’s more expensive and typically has a longer lead time. If your project is near the thickness limit, consider using the next coil size up or splitting into two volumes for easier handling.
Coil Options for Spiral Bound Books
You can choose from a range of options to customize your spiral bound book to your specific needs. None of the following choices change the fundamental advantages of spiral binding. Your book will still be practical, durable, attractive, and functional. You can turn the pages through 360°, lay the book completely flat, stand it up for presentations, and more.
The coils we use in spiral bound books come in a variety of vibrant colors and a range of sizes to suit every need.
Metal Coil
Spiral Bound Book Paper Options
Choosing the right paper for your spiral bound book depends on your content and its purpose:
- Gloss Paper: Best for books with full-color visuals and fewer texts, such as photo books or catalogs. It enhances color vibrancy and makes images stand out.
- Matte Paper: Ideal for books with both text and graphics, providing excellent color reproduction with a softer, non-reflective surface. Perfect for reports or manuals.
| GSM / LB | Gloss Art Paper Thickness | Matte Art Paper Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| 80 gsm / 54 lb Text | 0.065 mm | 0.072 mm |
| 105 gsm / 71 lb Text | 0.086 mm | 0.090 mm |
| 128 gsm / 86 lb Text | 0.105 mm | 0.110 mm |
| 157 gsm / 106 lb Text | 0.136 mm | 0.140 mm |
| 200 gsm / 135 lb Text | 0.178 mm | 0.200 mm |
| 250 gsm / 92 lb Cover | 0.225 mm | 0.250 mm |
| 300 gsm / 111 lb Cover | 0.270 mm | 0.285 mm |
| 350 gsm / 129 lb Cover | 0.410 mm | - |
- Uncoated Paper: Recommended for interactive books like workbooks or journals. It’s perfect for writing or drawing with pens, pencils, or markers.
| GSM / lb | Uncoated Paper Thickness |
|---|---|
| 80 gsm / 54 lb Text | 0.097 mm |
| 100 gsm / 68 lb Text | 0.118 mm |
| 120 gsm / 81 lb Text | 0.140 mm |
| 140 gsm / 95 lb Text | 0.160 mm |
| 160 gsm / 108 lb Text | 0.183 mm |
| 180 gsm / 122 lb Text | 0.200 mm |
Additional Finishing Services
We also offer optional treatments to help your cover stand out. These include:
Shiny and reflective, perfect for vibrant graphics and photos.
Glossy highlights on specific areas for a striking contrast.
Smooth and non-reflective for a simple yet professional design.
Similar to matte lamination, but the resulting surface has a delightful, almost velvet feel.
A glossy finish applied to specific areas for a bold and distinct look.
Metallic or pigmented foil for a shiny, eye-catching effect.
Raised designs for added texture and elegance.
Uses a custom-made metal die to cut paper into specific shapes.
Thin metallic foil—usually gold, silver, or bronze—is applied to the trimmed edges of your book's pages.
Custom patterns and images are sprayed on the edges for a truly unique appearance.
Print your design on a special paper that reflects light in a rainbow-like pattern.
A row of small holes that makes it easy to tear off part of the paper.
A built-in tape that allows the paper to be opened easily and cleanly by pulling along the strip.
When Do I Need to Choose a Spiral-Bound Book?
Most people choose spiral binding because the book can open 360° and lie flat. There’s another major advantage: spiral binding isn’t constrained by 4-page signatures, so you can alternate different paper stocks anywhere in the interior. That makes it the best option when you need to:
- Mix uncoated “write-on” pages with coated pages for photos or charts
- Insert tabs, dividers, pockets, or tear-off forms at any position
- Build workbooks, planners, and manuals that require frequent page turns
- Use top-bound (flip-up) formats for notepads, calendars, or reference guides
Because spiral books aren’t forced into 4-page increments, you can change paper types at will and structure sections exactly the way your readers need them.
We’re always happy to discuss new formats or unusual specifications. If you don’t see what you’re looking for above, get in touch. Our team will be glad to help.
Why Choose QinPrinting
QinPrinting delivers customized spiral bound book printing solutions featuring
– 25+ years printing expertise
– State-of-the-art equipment
– ISO 9001 certified facility
– Strict quality control
– Color consistency
– Binding durability test
– 100% satisfaction guarantee
– Dedicated project manager
– Technical consultation
– Fast response time
– After-sales service
– Choice of paper weight
– Gloss, matte, or soft-touch cover finish
– Multiple binding types available
FAQs
What is the MOQ for spiral bound book printing?
The minimum order quantity is 100 copies.
What are common spiral bound book sizes?
The dimensions of your spiral bound book largely depend on its purpose, target audience, page count, and the type of graphics it contains. While we can produce spiral bound books in virtually any size, we generally recommend sticking to standard sizes for most projects. This approach simplifies production, reduces costs, and ensures the book meets industry standards.
Here are some suggested sizes for different types of spiral bound books:
- Company Report: 8.5″ x 11″, up to 300 pages
- Instructional Manual: 5.5″ x 8.5″, up to 200 pages
- Scholastic Workbook: 7″ x 12″, up to 300 pages
- Diary/Appointment Planner: 5.5″ x 8.5″, up to 200 pages
Of course, these are just guidelines. At QinPrinting, we offer full flexibility and can create custom spiral bound books in any size or format you require. However, keep in mind that custom sizes may incur additional costs and longer production times due to extra pre-press work.
Additionally, while there’s no minimum size requirement, 300 pages is the maximum practical limit for an effective spiral binding. For certain projects, the extra investment in customization may be worth it. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make!
How much does it cost to print a spiral bound book?
Try our easy and convenient online Printing Cost Calculator.
Or take a quick look at this
Spiral Bound Book Printing Price Chart (5.5″ x 8.5″)
| Quantity | 100 pcs | 500 pcs | 1000 pcs | 5000 pcs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40pp + 4pp | $3.11 each $311 total | $1.20 each $598 total | $0.96 each $959 total | $0.90 each $4,517 total |
| 64pp + 4pp | $3.59 each $359 total | $1.37 each $683 total | $1.08 each $1,082 total | $1.00 each $4,981 total |
| 96pp + 4pp | $4.62 each $462 total | $1.69 each $843 total | $1.30 each $1,296 total | $1.14 each $5,723 total |
| 160pp + 4pp | $6.66 each $666 total | $2.32 each $1,162 total | $1.72 each $1,721 total | $1.43 each $7,151 total |
- Cover: 250 gsm / 92 lb coated cover paper with matte lamination
- Interior: 105 gsm / 70 lb coated text paper, full color printing
Spiral Bound Book Printing Price Chart (8.5″ x 11″)
| Quantity | 100 pcs | 500 pcs | 1000 pcs | 5000 pcs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40pp + 4pp | $4.24 each $424 total | $1.55 each $775 total | $1.21 each $1210 total | $1.09 each $5428 total |
| 64pp + 4pp | $5.73 each $573 total | $2.00 each $1002 total | $1.50 each $1499 total | $1.28 each $6387 total |
| 96pp + 4pp | $7.79 each $779 total | $2.63 each $1317 total | $1.91 each $1913 total | $1.55 each $7744 total |
| 160pp + 4pp | $11.94 each $1194 total | $3.89 each $1946 total | $2.74 each $2738 total | $2.09 each $10428 total |
- Cover: 250 gsm / 92 lb coated cover paper with matte lamination
- Interior: 128 gsm / 86 lb coated text paper, full color printing
What is the standard production time for spiral bound books?
The standard production time is approximately about 10 to 20 days, depending on order size and finishing options. Shipping times vary based on your location and shipping method.
How do I start my order?
You can utilize our online quote calculator to obtain EXW prices and click “Shipping Cost” button to get the shipping cost. Alternatively, you can reach out to us directly through the Contact Us form or by sending your printing requirements via email at [email protected].
Upon receiving your request, we’ll promptly provide you with a quote and proceed to the next step accordingly.
How should I send my artwork?
Feel free to share your artwork with us through email, Sprend, or WeTransfer to [email protected]. Or send us a share link via Dropbox or Google Drive.
Which file types can I send?
Please submit your files as high-resolution PDFs (300 dpi), in CMYK color mode, with a 3 mm bleed and all fonts embedded. Our team is happy to assist if you need any help.
Do you provide a document checking services?
Yes, we offer a free manual document-checking service to ensure your files are print-ready. Our team will review the document layout, bleed, resolution, and other technical details, allowing you to correct any issues before production begins.
Can I order sample book?
You can get acquainted with our quality, products, and paper stocks by ordering a sample pack from here.
QinPrinting Reviews
We are so grateful and will definitely come back again for printing services!!
We are VERY grateful! Thank you
As a first-time children’s author, this whole process has been nothing short of hurdles. So, the stressors of having my book made overseas were valid. But Nelson always reassured me that everything was going to work out, and they would deliver quality books. Qin Printing did just that and more!!! Nelson patiently walked me through the entire process. He answered my endless questions with kindness. We had multiple Zoom meetings and sometimes at the last minute. Nelson followed up when my books were shipped to keep me updated on its arrival. Also, he followed up to make sure that I was satisfied with the quality of the books. I worked with Nelson from February until August because there were serious delays on my end with preparing my book to be printed. Once again, Nelson’s awesome personality was always encouraging, especially at times when I needed it the most.
When the books arrived, I couldn’t stop SMILING!! All of the hurdles were worth seeing something that I had been working on for 8 years. More importantly, the feedback that I have received from others about the quality of the books has been very comforting. I can confidently present my book When I Grow Up Adventures: Feelings Matter to others without pause. I’m so THANKFUL that I was able to do business with this company. Without hesitation, I will continue to do business with them.
As a finished artist with 30 years of experience I can comfortably recommend this company to you
I couldn’t be happier with my experience working with QinPrinting. From start to finish, their team was responsive, professional, and truly invested in helping me bring my vision to life. I printed my first edition of a 58-card deck (complete with a custom magnetic box) and the results were stunning.
The color accuracy, matte finish, and premium cardstock all exceeded my expectations. Every detail shows real craftsmanship. The communication was outstanding too; they provided clear updates, design templates, and guidance at every stage.
What impressed me most was how personal the process felt. Even though they’re a large-scale printer, they treated my small-batch creative project with care and respect.
If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality printer for custom card decks, packaging, or creative projects, I can’t recommend QinPrinting enough. I’ll absolutely be printing with them again for my next production run!
Let's Talk
If you’re a school, college, or business in need of a first-class spiral bound book at an unbeatable price point — and only the finest product and personalized customer service will do — we should talk. Get in touch today to chat through your needs or to ask for a no-obligation quote. We can’t wait to help you make your next spiral bound book the best!
