Print finishing and binding workers

Description

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.

Educational 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.