Guide to Making the Most of Ring Binders

Organize and protect your business documents in style with unique 3 ring binders

By Peter Heithoff

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Conventional 3 ring binders have always made work around the office more efficient. With the proper materials, however, the scope of this mundane office item's use stretches far beyond a simple organizational tool. Protect your documents in style and impress your clients with ring binder portfolios of quality design.

With all the selections available, making the most of ring binders is easy and fun. The possibilities are virtually endless, but popular mediums include leather and metal binders. Cloth and wood binders are unique options for businesses looking to go with something unique.

1. Leather and aluminum binders provide durability and style.

2. Cloth and wood binders are an interesting alternative for businesses thinking outside the box.

3. Some binder companies create custom templates and designs for a nominal fee.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Store important documents in executive style with leather binders

For a binder with class, style, and executive durability, consider spending a little more on leather 3 ring binders. Unlike most binders, leather binders become more attractive as they age - aged leather becomes softer and more pleasant to the eye and touch. Whereas heavily used plastic binders last little more than a year or two, a well-cared-for leather loose leaf binder can easily last decades.

I recommend: Search selections of leather binders and padfolios at McKinley American Leathercrafters and LeatherTree.

Store documents needing outdoor durability in metal three ring binders

A metal binder consists of an aluminum material which provides the necessary strength and weight to survive outdoor conditions. Construction companies and other businesses that need to have documents available on-site may find the durability of a metal binder useful.

I recommend: Purchase metal 3 ring binders from EBSCO Industries or Portfolios-and-Art-Cases.com.

Create a unique presentation for your three ring binders with cloth or wood

Cover your documents with a professional, unique look by using cloth or wood 3 ring binders. Bound with a textured cloth over a heavy binder board, a cloth 3 ring binder is a classy alternative for presentation. Some have a nickel-plated cardholder on the spine which allows for display of a logo. With their natural colors and tones, wood binders are distinctive and naturally beautiful - perfect for a presentation with a warmer tone.

I recommend: Buy cloth or wood binders from the 3 ring binder manufacturers Binderfinder.com or Wood Box Supply.

Template your own designs on custom 3 ring binders

Some ring binder companies create custom binders with templates and cover artwork. Create a custom template for your business' binder that includes your company logo or another device so customers remember you every time they see your portfolio.

I recommend: Receive professional template design services from Academy Looseleaf or Avery Dennison.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide