Book Binding Blog. December 2024

In September 2024, I did a day’s workshop with Celandine Books, at the Budleigh Salterton Book Fest.

I have never done any bookbinding before, and whilst I was one of the slowest to” get the hang of it, ” I eventually had two books stitched and glued and looking rather good!

It is an art form, and if you like folding paper, I recommend finding a workshop you can attend in person.

Book Binding Basics

What is bookbinding?

Bookbinding is assembling a book from individual sheets of paper that may be blank or printed. It involves sewing or glueing the pages together attaching a cover and creating a finished book.

Types of bookbinding

There are several types of bookbinding techniques, but as a beginner, you might like to start with these popular methods.

1…. Saddle Stitch binding;

This is one of the simplest methods.

It involves folding sheets in half, and stapling them together along the fold.

Great for small booklets and zines.

2…..Japanese Stab binding;

This technique uses decorative stitches to bind the pages together it allows for creative designs on the spine.

Ideal for journals and art books

3……Perfect binding;

Often used for paperback books.

The pages are glued together at the spine and then attached to a cover.

Requires more materials and tools but produces a professional-looking book.

Materials you’ll need

Paper….. Choose the type and quality based on your project.

For practice, you can use regular printer paper

Cover material… Card stock, leather or fabric can be used for the cover.

Binding supplies….. Depending on your chosen method you may need thread and a needle for sewing, staples for saddle stitch or glue for perfect binding.

Tools…. Scissors, a bone folder for creasing, a ruler and cutting mat, weights, and a scalpel.

Basic steps

  1. Prepare your pages

Cut your paper to the desired size. For most bindings it is best to fold the sheets in half

Choose your binding technique

  1. Assemble your book.

Follow the specific steps for your chosen method.

Whether sewing, stapling or glueing the pages together

Create the cover

Cut a piece of cover material slightly larger than your pages.

Attach it securely to the bound pages.

Finishing touches

Trim any excess paper, add a title or decorative elements and your book is ready!

Tips for beginners

1…..Start small.. Begin with a simple project like a small notebook or a pamphlet to build your confidence

2….Practise.. Don’t be discouraged by mistakes they are part of the learning process

3….Explore

Look online for tutorials and videos and local courses you may take.

There are many resources available that can guide you through different techniques.

Bookbinding is not only a practical skill but also a form of art.

Each book you create can be a reflection of your style and creativity.

Enjoy the process, and happy binding!