Entering the world of professional book finishing can feel like learning a new language. Between “gilt edges” and “case-making,” the terminology is vast and technical. To help buyers, production managers, and hobbyists alike, we have compiled a glossary of 30 essential terms used in the bookbinding and finishing machine industry. Understanding these terms will help you choose the right equipment and communicate effectively with suppliers like Kylin Machines.

Group 1: Bookbinding Basics

1. Perfect Binding

A process where the pages and cover are glued together at the spine with a strong, flexible thermal glue. Common for softcover books.

2. Case Binding

The classic hardcover binding method where a “case” (hardcover) is attached to the book block using endpapers. Related to our Case Making Machines.

3. Book Block

The internal pages of the book, already gathered and sewn or glued, but without the cover attached.

4. Endpaper

The heavy-weight paper that is glued to the inside of the book cover and the first/last pages of the book block to secure them together.

5. Spine

The back edge of a book where the pages are joined together. Professional machines must ensure the spine is perfectly flat or rounded.

6. Fore-edge

The edge of a book opposite the spine. This is the primary surface for edge gilding with the Kylin KY-530A.

7. Head and Tail

The top (head) and bottom (tail) edges of the book.

8. Scoring

Making a crease or indent in paper to allow it to fold cleanly without cracking. Essential in both book covers and paper bags.

9. Signature

A large sheet of paper printed with multiple pages that is folded down to become one section of a book.

10. Gathering

The process of assembling signatures in the correct order to form the book block.

Group 2: Edge Finishing & Gilding

11. Gilt Edge

The application of metallic foil (usually gold or silver) to the edges of a book for decoration and protection. Achieved via our Gilding Machines.

12. Sprayed Edge

Applying liquid ink or paint to the book edges to create a solid color or pattern. Popular in modern fiction.

13. Burnishing

The process of polishing the edge of a book (often after gilding) to create a high-gloss, mirror-like finish.

14. Foil Stamping

Using heat and pressure to transfer a metallic or pigmented foil onto a surface (cover or edges).

15. Release Layer

The layer in a foil that allows the color/metal to separate from the carrier film when heat is applied.

16. Sizing

A coating applied to the book edge before gilding to help the foil adhere better (standard in manual gilding; often built into foils for machines).

17. Sanding/Grinding

Preparing the book edge by making it perfectly smooth so that the foil can be applied without imperfections. Kylin machines often include a sanding station.

18. Holographic Foil

A foil that reflects a rainbow spectrum or pattern. Requires precise temperature control to apply successfully.

Group 3: Machine Technology & Controls

19. PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)

The “brain” of the machine that controls all automated movements. Most Kylin machines use Siemens or Delta PLCs.

20. Servo Motor

A motor that allows for precise control of position, speed, and acceleration. Used for accurate paper feeding in our Paper Bag Machines.

21. HMI (Human Machine Interface)

The touchscreen panel where operators enter data and monitor machine status.

22. Pneumatic System

Using compressed air to drive machine movements, such as the pressing plate in a gilding machine.

23. Sensors (Photoelectric)

Devices that detect the presence or position of paper/books to trigger the next step in the cycle.

24. Tension Control

A system that keeps the foil or paper roll at a constant tightness to prevent wrinkling or breaking.

25. Throughput

The number of units (books or bags) a machine can produce in a given timeframe (e.g., 20 pcs/min).

Group 4: Materials & Consumables

26. GSM (Grams per Square Meter)

The measure of paper weight/density. Critical for determining machine settings.

27. Greyboard

The thick, rigid cardboard used as the core of hardcovers and rigid boxes. Handled by our KY-420B.

28. Animal Jelly Glue

A natural protein-based hot melt glue used for high-end bookbinding and box making because it doesn’t warp the board.

29. Hot Stamping Foil

The thin film used in the gilding process, consisting of a polyester carrier and various functional layers.

30. Creasing Matrix

A tool used to create a clean fold in thick paper or board by providing a channel for the paper to be pushed into.

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