Flexi Binding: The Best of Both Worlds
Flexi binding delivers premium hardcover features – lay-flat pages, endpapers, and quality construction – in a flexible, lightweight softcover format.
A flexi bound book opens completely flat while the cover remains flexible and durable
What is Flexi Binding?
Flexi binding (also known as Otabind or lay-flat binding) is a hybrid method that combines the construction quality of case binding with the lightweight flexibility of a paperback.
The key difference from standard perfect binding is how the cover attaches: instead of gluing the spine to the cover, only the front and back covers are attached to the book block, leaving the spine free. This allows the book to open completely flat without straining the binding.
Key benefit: Flexi bound books lay completely flat when opened, making them ideal for cookbooks, workbooks, music books, and any publication where you need hands-free reading.
How Flexi Binding Works
The production process follows similar steps to hardcover book production:
- 1 Pages are printed, folded into sections, and gathered
- 2 Sections can be sewn together or PUR-bound for strength
- 3 Endpapers are attached to connect the block to the cover
- 4 A flexible card cover (not rigid board) is used
- 5 Cover attaches via hinges only – spine remains free
Originally developed for binding Bibles, flexi binding is now popular for any book where lay-flat capability and durability matter.
Why Choose Flexi Binding?
Lay-Flat Pages
Books open completely flat and stay open hands-free. No fighting to keep the book open while cooking or working.
Premium Finish
Endpapers and quality construction give flexi bound books a premium feel that sets them apart from standard paperbacks.
Lightweight & Portable
Unlike hardcovers, flexi bound books are light and flexible – perfect for travel guides, field guides, and books you carry.
Durable Construction
The flexible cover overhangs the pages for protection, and the binding withstands frequent opening better than perfect binding.
Endpapers
Unlike standard paperbacks, flexi bound books include endpapers – the decorative sheets that connect the book block to the covers. This adds both structural integrity and a premium finishing touch.
Endpaper options:
- • Plain white, cream, or coloured paper
- • Custom printed designs (maps, patterns, illustrations)
- • Matching or contrasting colours to complement your cover
How Flexi Binding Compares
| Feature | Perfect Bound | Flexi Bound | Case Bound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lay-Flat | Limited | Excellent | Good (if sewn) |
| Endpapers | No | Yes | Yes |
| Cover Flexibility | Flexible | Flexible | Rigid |
| Weight | Light | Light | Heavy |
| Perceived Value | Standard | Premium | Premium |
| Cost | Lowest | Medium | Highest |
Flexi Binding is Ideal For
Book Types:
- • Cookbooks and recipe books
- • Travel and field guides
- • Music and hymn books
- • Journals and notebooks
- • Workbooks and manuals
- • Reference books
- • Yoga and exercise guides
Best When:
- • Book needs to stay open hands-free
- • Portability matters (travel, outdoor use)
- • You want premium feel without hardcover weight
- • Cross-spread images need to be visible
- • Book will be used frequently
- • Higher perceived value is important
Explore Other Binding Options
Ready to print your book?
Get competitive quotes for any book type - from 1 copy to thousands. Professional quality, worldwide delivery.