Once printing is complete, the ink on the models needs some time to dry. The model is then ready for die-cutting. In the case of the Ewe Boat and Flying Pig the only die cutting is in the euroslot holes in the top of the cover.
The two inners and the cover now need stapling (or stitching) together. These models are saddle stitched, so called because of the way the pages sit over the saddle of the stitching machine.

At each stage of the machine, a page is dropped onto the kit, in the final stage wire is run from drums and folded into place to create staples.

In the picture left the kits move from right to left as they are collated, in the final stage they are packed into boxes for shipment.

Thanks to all at Colophon Press for showing me the print process and allowing me to photograph how it worked, it was very interesting!
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