A "Fine Binding" is a very high quality binding, often traditional in style, usually executed in fine leather with decorative tooling, blind tooled or in gold.

"Design" bindings are also executed in a manner equivalent to a "Fine" binding but are created as an artistic expression conveying the intent of the author or text. A variety of leathers in a wide range of colors are often applied using special on-lay techniques to enhance the artistic intent. Protective enclosures, such as a custom clamshell box can be designed to enhance the finished volume. Design bindings and their custom enclosures are very beautiful and highly collectible as art objects.