Bookbinders and Bindery Workers

Career summary

#4/1/19 lh

Binding is the process of joining printed sheets into finished products, such as pamphlets or books. It involves cutting, folding, gluing, stitching, trimming, and many other processes. Bindery workers operate the machines that perform these tasks. Those who work in large shops usually perform only one or a few processes. Workers in small shops may perform all these tasks. Some bookbinders work in hand binderies. These skilled workers design bindings for books that are printed in small quantities or have unusual binding needs. They also restore and rebind rare books.

Bookbinders

In hand binderies, bookbinders fold the printed sheets into groups of pages called signatures. They assemble the signatures in numerical order to form the body of the book. They attach endpapers to the front and back, and glue signatures together along the spine. Bookbinders compress the book to reduce it to the right thickness, and glue a cloth backing to the spine. They trim the book edges and apply color using a brush or spray.

Bookbinders make the book cover from binder board and cover material. They cut these to specified dimensions and glue the cover material to the binder board. Bookbinders glue endpapers to the cover. They imprint designs onto the cover, using colored foil and a stamping machine. Most of these tasks are performed by hand or by machine.

Bindery workers

Bindery workers may perform one or more of the above tasks. Bindery workers usually set up and run the equipment. Bindery workers read work orders to determine their work instructions. They set up their machines for operation. For example, they install devices such as knives, guides, and clamps. They fill glue pots and load cloth, paper, or other materials onto machine spindles. They position clamps and set machine controls.

Bindery workers make trial runs to check product samples for defects and make adjustments. When the run is complete, workers remove the products and stack them for shipping.

Bindery workers record the time they spend on specific tasks and the number of items they produce. They also may clean and lubricate machinery parts and make minor repairs. In addition, they may train other workers to set up and operate binding machines.

Related careers

This career is part of the Arts, Audio/Visual Technology, and Communications cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Metal and Plastic Processing Workers
• Packaging and Filling Machine Operators
• Page Layout Workers
• Prepress Workers
• Printing Press Operators

Military careers

• Printing Specialists

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to bookbinders and bindery workers.

• Fold printed sheets into groups of pages, or “signatures,” and assemble to form book body.
• Glue endpapers to covers.
• Glue signatures together along spine.
• Compress signatures to reduce books to required thickness.
• Trim edges of books. Apply color to edges, using brush or paint gun.
• Apply glue to back of books and attach cloth backing and headbands.
• Cut binder boards and cover materials to specified dimensions. Fit and glue material to binder board.
• Insert books into devices that shape and prepare them to attach cover.
• Imprint lettering and designs on covers, using colored foil and stamping machine.
• Read work orders. Record time spent and number of items produced.
• Install bindery machine devices and fill glue pots.
• Mount and secure reels of cloth, paper, or other materials into machines.
• Position stitching heads and set machine controls.
• Start machines and make trial runs. Examine product samples for defects.
• Observe machine operations to detect errors. Make adjustments as needed.
• Remove products from machine and stack for next operation.
• Pack, weigh, and stack books on pallet for shipment.
• Clean and lubricate machine parts and make minor repairs.
• Train other workers to set up and operate binding machines.

Common work activities

Bookbinders and bindery workers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Control machines and processes
• Get information needed to do the job
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Handle and move objects
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Evaluate information against standards
• Process information
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Teach others
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Think creatively
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Coach others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, bookbinders and bindery workers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a low level of social contact. They work mainly with machines and print materials, but may speak to others by face-to-face conversations.
• Usually work as part of a team.
• Are somewhat responsible for the work done by other binders.
• Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety of others.

Physical work conditions

• Always work indoors. Work sites may not always be temperature-controlled.
• Are sometimes exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable. This is especially likely for bindery workers.
• Are sometimes exposed to hazardous equipment or situations.
• Are sometimes exposed to fumes and dust.
• Wear ear plugs only when working with especially noisy machines.
• May work physically near other workers.
• May wear protective safety gear, such as goggles.

Work performance

• Must be sure that all details are done and their work is exact. Errors could cost the company or customers money.
• Must allow the work pace to be determined by the speed of machinery.
• Repeat the same physical activities.
• Make work decisions that impact coworkers or the reputation of their company. They often are able to act independently, but sometimes consult others for their opinion.
• Bookbinders have more freedom to set their daily tasks and goals.
• Must meet strict daily and weekly deadlines.

Hours/travel

• Work a standard 40-hour week.

Physical demands

Bookbinders and bindery workers frequently:

• Stand for long periods of time.
• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Repeat the same movements.
• Walk or run for long periods of time.

It is important for bookbinders and bindery workers to be able to:

• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for bookbinders and bindery workers to be able to:

• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Use muscles to jump, sprint, or throw objects.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.

Skills and abilities

Bookbinders and bindery workers need to:

Communicate

• Understand spoken information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Understand written information.

Reason and problem solve

• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.

Work with things

• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Printing Technologies

Other programs of study to consider

• Precision Crafting and Repair

Training

To work as a bookbinder or bindery worker, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required beyond high school for this occupation.

On-the-job training

Most bookbinders and bindery workers learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. You begin by doing simple tasks such as moving paper to the cutting machines. As you gain experience, you learn to operate one or more machines. In general, training lasts up to one year.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to become printing specialists. Training lasts from eight to 20 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job. The skills you learn in this military occupation may transfer to bindery jobs.

Washington apprenticeships

For further information on apprenticeships in Washington, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Apprenticeship Program 
PO Box 44530
Olympia, WA 98504-4530
360.902.5320

#L&I info still the same,  2/15/18 cj, 4/1/19

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Applications
• Graphic Design
• Physical Education

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers prefer to hire applicants who have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. They also look for applicants who have experience. However, they will train applicants who have some knowledge of binding operations. Employers also look for applicants who are patient, neat, and accurate. Good eyesight is also important.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Bindery Workers 
• Bookbinders 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

#In Washington, the average entry-level wage for print binding and finishing workers is $12.16 per hour ($2,107 per month).

#Updated ES wage info 07.16 sd

Bindery workers are often covered by union contracts. Workers with union contracts often receive higher wages. Wages also vary by the worker's level of experience.

Full-time bookbinders and bindery workers often receive benefits. Common benefits include paid vacation, sick leave, and health insurance.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Bindery jobs are concentrated near large urban areas such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. More than half of all bookbinders and bindery workers work for commercial printing plants.

Major employers:

• Commercial printing plants
• Paper product manufacturers
• Newspaper publishers

National outlook

Demand for this occupation is declining due to increased popularity of electronic books and other electronic media. Opportunities for hand bookbinders will be limited as only a small number of companies do this type of highly-specialized work. 

Other resources

Graphic Communications Conference 
25 Louisiana Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20001
202.624.6800

Printing Industries of America 
301 Brush Creek Road
Warrrendale, PA 15086-7529
800.910.4283
412.741.6860

References

Career cluster

• Arts, Audio/Visual Technology, and Communications

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Print Binding and Finishing Workers (51-5113.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed.

DOT occupations

• Bindery Worker (653.685-010) 
• Bindery-machine Setter (653.360-018) 
• Bookbinder (977.381-010) 
• Bookbinder Apprentice (977.381-014) 
• Book-sewing-machine Operator I (653.685-014) 
• Book-sewing-machine Operator II (653.682-010) 
• Casing-in-line Setter (653.360-010) 
• Collating-machine Operator (653.382-014) 
• Covering-machine Operator (653.682-014) 
• Folding-machine Operator (653.382-010) 
• Head-bander-and-liner Operator (653.682-018) 
• Magazine Repairer (653.685-022) 
• Rounding-and-backing-machine Operator (653.685-026) 
• Saddle-and-side Wire Stitcher (692.685-146) 
• Spiral Binder (653.685-030) 
• Stitching-machine Operator (653.662-010) 
• Tinning-machine Set-up Operator (653.682-022) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Realistic/Conventional/Artistic

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled