The present invention includes an automated binding machine configured for binding a stack of perforated sheets with a binding element. The automated binding machine includes a support member supporting the stack of perforated sheets, a binding element feeder, a plurality of binding elements supported by the binding element feeder, a receiving member configured to receive a first binding element from the plurality of binding elements and to insert at least a portion of the first binding element through the stack of perforated sheets, and a binding mechanism configured to engage the inserted portion and couple the inserted portion to a non-inserted portion of the first binding element.