Saddle Stitch Booklets
Saddle stitching is one of the most widely used ways to bind a printed booklet.
Folded sheets are gathered inside one another and stapled through the fold, creating a finished booklet that opens naturally and stays relatively lightweight.
It works especially well when you need more room than a brochure provides but do not need the thickness of a perfect bound publication. Bacchus Press prints saddle stitch booklets for companies, organizations, nonprofits, schools, campaigns and other Bay Area clients.
Common Uses
Have something else in mind? We're up for the challenge! Contact us and let us know about your custom design.
Sizes & Format
A few common finished sizes are listed below, but those are far from the only choices we offer. Square, landscape, portrait, and custom sizes are also available.
| Finished Size | Format | Often Used For |
|---|---|---|
| 5.5" x 8.5" | Portrait (half letter size) | Programs, Newsletters |
| 6" x 9" | Portrait | Catalogs, Journals, Reports |
| 8" x 10" | Portrait | Marketing Booklets, Look Books |
| 8.5" x 5.5" | Landscape | Products, Museum Guides |
| 8.5" x 11" | Portrait (letter size) | Annual Reports, Guides |
| 8.5" x 8.5" | Square | Portfolio, Reports |
| 9" x 12" | Landscape | Gala Programs |
| Custom Size | Portrait, Landscape, Square | Send the specs and we can take a look |
Materials, Papers, & Covers
You can use the same paper throughout the booklet or add a heavier cover. We print on coated and uncoated stocks, including FSC-certified and recycled paper options.
| Component | Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gloss Stock | Coated | Add dazzling shine and vivid colors for maximum visual impact |
| 70 lb. Opaque Smooth White | Clean and smooth white | Smooth texture for a classic, easy-to-read finish |
| Matte Stock | Subtle, vintage look | Sophisticated feel |
| Self-Cover | Same paper weight for cover and inside pages | Economical and lightweight (great for shipping) |
| Plus Cover | Heavier cover stock | Added for durability and high-end presentation |
| Sustainable Stocks | FSC-certified, recycled content | Coated or Uncoated |
| Direct Mail Booklets | Paper and size chosen for direct mail | Avoids unnecessary weight |
Full Color, Spot Color & Finishing
Saddle stitched booklets can be printed digitally or offset depending on the quantity, format and requirements for your booklet. Your project can include full-color process printing, PMS spot colors and additional finishing such as foil stamping, embossing, coating or other treatments when the design calls for them.
If your booklet needs personalization, addressing or mailing, we can handle that here too.
These treatments can be used to emphasize selected elements without changing the basic saddle stitch construction.
Turnaround & Proofing
We offer fast turnaround between 1 - 5 business days, but it will all depend on the complexity of your project. Soft Proofs are provided via PDFemail. Get in touch with us if you need a a hard proof.
FAQs
If your question isn't answered below, we're always here to help! Send us an email or call 510-420-5800
Do you offer fast turnaround?
Absolutely! Our lead time is usually 1 - 5 business days, but that does not include shipping times. Get in touch with us if you need a fast turnaround.
Can I see a hard proof before I approve my order?
Sure you can! We can print a hard proof and ship it to you before we start producing your order. Contact us for more info.
A Few Things to Know Before Sending Your Files
Saddle stitched booklets are built from folded sheets, so the total page count normally needs to be a multiple of four.
The amount of paper that can be stitched together also has practical limits. Page count, paper thickness, cover stock and finished size all affect how thick the booklet can be.
If you are still working on the layout, you do not need to figure all of that out yourself. Send us the page count and basic specifications and we can tell you if the project is set up correctly before it goes to press.
For a more detailed explanation of the binding process, page counts, page creep and how saddle stitch compares with other binding methods, read our guide:
What Is Saddle Stitch Binding? A Printer’s Guide for Booklets, Brochures, and Beyond →
Quick Specs
6" × 9"
7" × 10"
8" × 10"
8.5" × 8.5"
8.5" × 11"
9" × 12"
Not sure of your specs yet?
Send us the info you have and we can sort the rest before quoting.
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Need Saddle Stitch Booklets Printed?
Send us the quantity, finished size, page count, paper choice and deadline if you have them. If some of those details are still being worked out, we can help you sort out the specs before quoting the job.
Sustainability At Our Core
Bacchus Press merges cutting-edge technology with a strong commitment to sustainability. We utilize Heidelberg and Ricoh presses to produce vibrant, high-quality printed materials on eco-friendly paper and with environmentally safe ink, ensuring your brand stands out while minimizing its environmental impact.
California Green Business Network
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Explore how our commitment to being green distinguishes us from the rest. and learn about our FSC certification.
