endband

Endband is a feature of traditional hand bookbinding consisting of one or more narrow cords or tapes attached to the spine near its ends, at the head (top) and tail (bottom). Endbands are part of the sewing structure and may be visible along the spine or concealed beneath the spine lining. In some traditions the terms headband and tailband are used for the top and bottom bands, with endband referring to the general feature on the spine.

Materials commonly used for endbands include silk, linen, or cotton cords, and occasionally leather or decorative metal threads. In fine bindings, two or more cords are sewn into the spine to create a reinforced edge; the cords can be plain or dyed and may run the full height of the spine. The appearance can range from simple, utilitarian reinforcements to elaborately colored or patterned bands.

Construction and function: endbands are typically formed during the early stages of binding, sewn into the text block before or during casing. The cords are anchored into the spine and folded to create a small, rounded edge at the ends of the spine. Their primary purpose is to reinforce the spine and help anchor the binding to the covers, distributing stress from opening and handling. They also contribute to the binding’s historical character and aesthetics.

Variants: there are real endbands, which are integral to the binding’s structure, and false (decorative) endbands, which imitate the look without providing significant reinforcement. False endbands are common in mass-produced bindings or when the endbands are hidden beneath the covering.

See also: bookbinding, headband, spine.