Dissertation printing and binding: Factors to consider printing and binding a research paper.
It feels as though it’s taken you forever, but at last your dissertation is finished. Now, you’ll need to bind and print it. When you get to this point, here are a few points to consider:
- What’s the dissertation printing and binding process?
- Where can I get high-quality dissertation printing and binding?
Read on what you need to know before printing and binding a thesis, essay or research paper.
What’s the first step of dissertation printing and binding?
If you’re finishing your undergraduate degree, this is probably your first time printing and binding. While you may be an expert in research papers, they tend to be submitted digitally.
There are a few things to consider before you jump straight into the process of dissertation printing and binding, such as the pricing, type of paper, and whether to print in colour. Here’s some information to help you with these decisions:
Colour vs black and white
Colour printing is the more expensive option, but if you’re studying an arts degree, it may be required. While adding some colour to your dissertation can give it a professional touch, be careful not to overdo it, as this could have the opposite effect.
Paper
Normally, copy shops use 80g/m2 paper. This type of paper is thin and tears easily. It’s also possible in the case of double-sided printing, that the ink can shine through to the other side.
We’d recommend opting for 100g/m2 paper which is far more robust, particularly when it comes to double-sided printing.
Price
The use of colour printing, the length of your paper and the type of paper used will all influence the price of your dissertation printing. Write down and compare the rates offered by different providers to ensure you get value for money.
Choosing the right type of dissertation binding
Once you’ve figured out the other details, it’s time to choose your binding. The type you should use depends on the thesis you’re submitting. An in-depth research paper that took months of work should have nicer binding than the term paper you wrote in a week or two that only makes up a small percentage of your final grade.
Completing a dissertation or thesis is a huge milestone. Dissertation printing and binding don’t happen very open, so get a nice binding that reflects your hard work. A cost-effective spiral binding may not be suitable for a dissertation. An elegant leather binding will reflect the hard work you’ve put into your project.
Essentially, the dissertation printing and binding method you choose in the end depends on what it is that you’re submitting.
Tip: Your institution may have its own requirements regarding the type of binding you should use. Double-check the rules with your institution before you start printing your work.
Different types of binding
There are many different types of binding out there, but don’t be intimidated by all the choices. We’ll explain each one to you:
Elegant leather bookbinding
For longer important papers, we recommend leather bookbinding. Leather binding will give your paper that classy, professional touch. With companies like BachelorPrint, you’ll have lots of extras to choose from. Bookmarks, custom embossing and corner protectors are guaranteed to make your paper stand out.
Standard thermal binding
Thermal binding is a versatile option. The front is transparent, whilst the back cover has a leather-like texture that is available in separate colours.
Thermal binding is great if you want to make multiple copies of your work. It’s suitable for papers with a lower page count.
Softcover binding
The flexible softcover can be designed exactly how you want, incorporating pictures, logos and different fonts. Keep in mind that your thesis still needs to maintain a professional appearance, so avoid making the cover too cluttered.
With a personally designed cover, any paper with the softcover binding is guaranteed to stand out.
Spiral binding
Spiral binding offers a low-budget way of ensuring that your binding looks professional. Like thermal binding, it has a transparent cover, although the pages are bound together with rings instead of glue.
As spiral binding is quite lightweight, it is not recommended for larger research papers.
Printing options
Now you know what the binding process entails. Now it’s time to decide how you will print your thesis. You can choose between a local print shop, or an online printing service that can deliver your thesis directly to your door.
Remember to research printing providers to ensure you get your money’s worth. BachelorPrint is a top-quality service for dissertation printing and binding. This market-leading online print shop has several high-quality bindings on offer with various add-ons available. With free express shipping, your paper with the fancy dissertation binding will be on your doorstep not long after you’ve placed your order.
Unfortunately, researching and writing a thesis is no quick task. But who says the printing and binding process can’t be? Follow these tips and you’ll have your thesis ready to submit before you know it.
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