Bookbinding is a great way to give your important documents the high-class look that they need. If you're looking for a binding machine, you may be at a loss as to which brand names you should look for. Well, don't fret, because here is a list of five manufacturers you should know. Take a look at them so you'll know which brand names are worth your consideration and money.

GBC. The name GBC is just about synonymous with comb binding and has been ever since the company took over Ibico in the 1990's. GBC makes some of the most popular comb binders on the market, such as the mid-range CombBind C12, which is a new addition to their lineup. (The product was released in the summer of 2010.) The company also makes modular punches, coil binders, and a whole range of supplies including covers. The supplies include GBC ProClick and ZipBind spines both of which can be re-opened so you can edit your documents at a later date.

Fellowes. Fellowes is an Illinois-based company that's mostly known for their high-quality paper shredders which isn't to say they don't make terrific binding machines - they do. The company offers a great assortment of plastic comb, PVD Coater company wire, and even thermal devices. In 2009, Fellowes unveiled their Helios thermal binders, devices that look great while also giving the user a way to produce professional-looking documents.

Akiles. If you're looking for a heavy-duty device, you really can't go wrong with one from Akiles. The company makes machines for a number of different binding methods including plastic comb, wire, and color coil. In fact, Akiles just put out new wire and color coil machines including the iCoil 41, which comes with a free pair of crimping pliers. If your workplace needs a two-in-one machine, Akiles manufactures several of them such as the WireMac Comb, which is compatible with both twin-loop wire spines and plastic combs.

Digital Finishing Group. This company, which is better known as DFG, makes some highly functional comb binding devices that also look very contemporary. Although the company has been in business for an extended length of time, they make incredibly reliable products such as the Titan Coil Ultra, a heavy-duty color coil binding machine. They're definitely worth a look, so be sure to check out their products.

James Burn. Twin-loop wire binding is very popular and James Burn specializes in manufacturing the equipment needed for this document finishing method. The company makes the popular Lhermite series which consists of a number of heavy-duty wire closers, such as the PB3300 which also includes a hole punch. James Burn also makes the SmartBinding, a comb binder that's good for occasional use.

These are just a few of the companies that manufacture bookbinding supplies and devices. If you buy a product from one of these manufacturers

, you're going to end up with the high-quality equipment you need to produce great-looking documents. Don't delay - start shopping for your bookbinding equipment today.