Print Finishing & Binding Workers

Print finishing and binding workers bind books and other publications and finish printed items by hand or machine.

Tasks

  • Folds, collates and sews printed sheets by hand or machine
  • Compresses sewn book in nipping machine to expel air and reduce swelling caused by sewing
  • Trims head, tail and fore-edge of book and gilds and marbles page edges as necessary
  • Cuts board and cloth for book cover and spine
  • Embosses lettering or decoration on cover by hand or machine
  • Repairs worn book bindings
  • Sets up and supervises automatic binding and finishing machine.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal academic requirements although some employers may require GCSEs/S grades. Training is typically received on-the-job. National Traineeships and apprenticeships in Machine Printing are available at NVQ/SVQ Levels 2 and 3.

What could I earn?

Salaries for this occupation tend to start at £22,000 per annum and can progress up to £25,000 per annum.

Is it in growth or decline?

There are currently 2,307 employed Print Finishing & Binding Workers in the region.