Got into it with a fellow binder about rounding vs flat backs on Sunday

I was at a guild meeting here in Austin and this guy named Carl kept saying rounding is just for looks and adds no real strength, but I've always seen it as part of the structure. He had some points about how flat backs lay better on shelves and don't stress the spine as much over time though. Has anyone else had this argument and changed their mind after hearing the other side?

3 comments

3 Comments

milesbailey28d agoProlific Poster

@lopez.quinn nailed it. I had a round back split right down the spine on a book I was really careful with, but my flat backs from years ago still look brand new. Rounding looks nice on display but for anything that gets regular use, flat is the way to go.

casey68228d agoMost Upvoted

Oh great, another round vs flat debate that'll go on longer than a double-sided tape strip.

lopez.quinn29d agoTop Commenter

Depends on the project honestly. I've had rounds pop loose on me before but flat backs hold up way better if you're actually handling the book a lot.