Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Happens to a vinyl binder in different
weather conditions?
A: Vinyl (poly-vinyl-chloride or P.V.C.) is a type
of plastic, and like most plastics, will soften when heated. A vinyl
binder left in a hot car or in direct sun will expand and appear "baggy",
no longer tight against the board. Vinyl also becomes hard and brittle
when exposed to cold. So much so, that the material may actually crack
or split. If you are using your binder outdoors, or for a mailing list,
it is recommended you choose a casemade Metro-case® binder, or laminated
reinforced printed paper material on a heavy one-piece grooved binding
board. These types are manufactured to withstand a wide range of temperature
extremes.
Q: How do I
determine the capacity of a loose-leaf binder?
A: When you order binders, you always refer to the
capacity (the amount of paper it will hold) by the metal ring size.
DO NOT refer to the size of the spine. The spine must always be larger
than the ring size so that the binder will close completely when empty.
Q: How do I
measure the ring size of a binder?
A: Since capacity in inches is measured by the size
of the binder's rings. You can refer to this diagram when determining
your size requirements.
The BIA (Binding Industries Association International) standards as
far as measuring a ring metal is as follows: Round rings; measure the
inside of the left side of the ring to the inside of the right side
at it's widest point. D-Rings; measure the straight part of the "D"
within the curves at the top and bottom. Angle D-Rings; as with the
D-Ring, measure the straight part.
Q: How should
I measure the paper for my binder?
A: Measurement standards for the binding industry are
not like those of the printing industry. For binders, you measure your
binding edge first. For instance; if you want a binder to hold 8 1/2"
x 11" paper, and 3 holes are punched on the 11" side, you
would order binders 11" x 8 1/2". The same holds true for
5 1/2" x 8 1/2" with 3 holes punched on the 8 1/2" side,
you would order binders 8 1/2" x 5 1/2".
Q: What about
space for index tabs?
A: All binders are manufactured in accordance with
BIA (Binding Industries Association International) guidelines, and are
designed to allow for standard 1/2" tabs.
Q: Does MLL
supply index tabs?
A: YES! We manufacture custom tabs for all types of
applications and businesses.
Q: What type
of artwork is needed for silk-screening, stamping and/or embossing dies?
A: The following are guidelines for providing artwork.
Please contact our technical representatives should you require further
information. Silk-creening artwork: Velux black/white or positive film
emotion up is required. Stamping/embossing: Velux black/white or a positive
film.
Q: Does MLL
do in-house stamping, embossing/debossing appliqué?
A: Yes, we have top-of-the line equipment to handle
all your special decorating requirements.
Q: Does MLL
have special sewing equipment?
A: Yes, we have fully qualified employees working in
our sewing department to ensure your product is 100% acceptable.
Q: Will MLL
ship to all destinations?
A: You Bet! Most of the quoted prices for you requirements
will include transportation to your destination, unless otherwise stated.
We ship anywhere in the United States and Canada.
Q: What is the
standard delivery time?
A: Although delivery time normally depends on the type
of binder and material you are ordering, we can deliver a typical custom
order in about five working days. In-stock Items can be delivered as
soon as next day, while special projects could be much as 4 weeks. Most
of the time, once your quotation is done, the sales representative or
estimator will advise you of the delivery date. We will always endeavor
to give you the most accurate estimates and shortest lead times possible.
Q: What about
quality control?
A: MLL has been ISO 9002 certified since 1995. We have
achieved this standard through our commitment to providing our clients
the highest level of quality products and service, through ongoing improvement
in production methods, and through improving efficiency, delivery time
and quality by employee involvement in reducing defects.
Q: Who are the
Binding Industries Association International (BIA)?
A: The Binding Industries Association International
is a trade association representing Trade Binders, Loose-Leaf
Manufactures, and suppliers to these industries throughout the United
States, Canada, and Europe. Visit the BIA web site at
www.bindingindustries.org
