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Facts about 3-Ring Binders you didn't know!

When you walk into an office, school, or store of any sort, you will most likely find a 3-ring binder somewhere. Although 3-ring binders are certainly not a “newcomer” to office or school supplies, they have become more specialized to accommodate certain tasks they are used for. In fact, 3-ring binders can date back to the 1850s, when a Rhode Island man, Henry T. Sisson issued a patent for both 2-ring and 3-ring binders.  His design came after the invention of loose-leaf paper and the ability to protect and keep the paper organized is what inspired him to create what is now known as the “binder”.  He was able to keep the loose-leaf papers organized, secured, and protected, also giving a person the ability to travel with these important documents.  Although, the first 3-ring binders were made of cardboard, whereas the binders you see today consist of plastic, PVC, or even paper overboard.  Also, today’s binders come in a vast variety of colors and sizes to suit the needs of the buyer.

You may think all 3-ring binders look and perform the same, but in fact they do not! There are different types of binders for different types of purposes.  Binders now come in different sizes and the more commonly used binders have a clear view in the front, back, or even spine, which is typically used for more training materials or in school settings.  There are even Professional Portfolio Binders that come with a zipper closure to add security and durability.  Then there are binders that are specialized for Accounting records, Display binders are used for awards and presentations materials.  The list can go on.  Let’s focus more on the 3-ring binders with the clear view option.  These again are the most commonly used binders and are almost becoming a standard supply for schools throughout the country.  But why, you may ask? Let’s talk a little more about some of the key features binders have and determine its benefits in a school setting.Binders in different sizes and colors

First things first, a standard binder has a specific thickness for a reason.  When loose-leaf paper was created, the common size was 8.5 inches by 11 inches, which means most 3-ring binders are roughly 10 inches wide and about 12 inches tall, giving the contents room as well as providing that security. The thickness of the binder can vary greatly from one product to another. The thicker binders are typically used to store documents for longer periods of time, whereas the thinner binders, which are more ideal for school settings, are perfect for reports, specific projects and events.  The amount of paper you want to put into the binder is determined by the ring size you will need. The ring size can also vary from about a half inch to 3 inches. By simply measuring the diameter of the ring, you can determine the amount of paper the binder can hold. Not all binders are created equally.  Typically, a 1 inch 3-ring binder can hold about 175 sheets of paper, whereas a 3-inch 3-ring binder can hold 460 sheets of paper.  That’s a big difference!

But there are more facts about 3-ring binders! The rings inside the binders can be different as well and also have different purposes. The shapes of the rings can be a circle, slant, or even resemble the letter “D”.  Schools that request a binder, will usually request a standard circle 3-ring binder, but there are a few that have special requests for the “D” ring binders.  But what is the difference between the two?  Well, your standard circle ring binder actually holds less paper compared to the “D” ring binder.  As I mentioned above a 1-inch ring binder can hold 175 sheets of paper, well that's for the circle ring, whereas the “D” ring binder in the same size can hold about 200-175 sheets of paper.  Although slant ring binders are not requested as often, they actually hold less than the “D” ring binders, but they are more durable.

The greatest parts about 3-ring binders are they make it easy to stay organized and keep the collection of papers in one place.  They are also very durable, portable, light weight and cost effective for all buyers. 

Here at Bright SchoolKits, we are committed to help you find the right 3-ring binder that is most suitable for your school, teacher, and students. Our customer service and sales liaisons are readily available to answer any questions you may have and even talk to you about the options available.  With the ability to customize your school supply kits to fit your needs, here we can make sure every aspect of your kit works in your students' classroom.

Contact us to find out if we carry the 3-ring binders you need in your school supply kits!

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