Book binding is set to be your new favourite craft
Crafting is a great way to take a break from your screen and step away from the digital world for a bit. If you're looking for a fun new craft to try that is about as far away from all things digital as you can get, you'll love the age-old art of book binding!
We're not talking about the massive medieval-style leather-bound books you'd find in the British Library (although you could give that a go if you like!), instead, we're talking about the various simple book binding techniques crafters of all ages and skill levels can try to turn loose sheets of paper into beautiful and functional books.
Whether you're interested in picking up the techniques of a centuries old tradition, want to be able to use your creative talents to make something functional from start to finish or are looking for a way to upcycle leftover paper from other projects – book binding is a fantastic skill to learn, and our beginner's guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started!
What is book binding: How to bind a book
Book binding is the practice of taking loose sheets of paper and turning them into a functional and pretty book. It's a craft with a rich history dating back centuries, with the Romans being the first to create books using papyrus bound between wooden boards.
Today, book binding covers a wide range of techniques, from simple pamphlet-stitch notebooks to elaborate decorative bindings and intricate covers that people can spend weeks working on.
Book binding is a great way for crafters to create one-of-a-kind notebooks while putting their own creative spin on a traditional craft.
Different styles of book binding
There are lots of different styles of book binding, but here are three beginner-friendly techniques you can try at home:
Pamphlet stitch
This is the ideal starting point for anyone new to book binding, as shown by @immaginacijabindery on Instagram. Pamphlet stitch is incredibly simple to do, and it's perfect for creating small notebooks.
You start by folding your paper into signatures (groups of pages), nesting them together on top of your cover, measuring out binding holes at equal spacings down the middle fold, making holes with an awl and then sewing the pages together with a simple running style stitch.
This technique of book binding is a great way to use up scrap paper and turn them into handy little notebooks; it's also a great craft for older kids who can be trusted with a needle and thread.
Japanese stab binding
If you want to try a more decorative approach, then Japanese stab binding, as shown by @sealemon on Instagram, is a beautiful option.
Instead of using signatures, you can use single sheets of paper. Sandwich your single pages in between the front and back cover sheets and then punch holes for threading around an inch in from the book's edge. You then stitch the book together through the holes you made, working in a pattern from top to bottom and from the back to the front of the book.
The exposed thread becomes a design element, adding a unique touch to your handmade book.
Coptic stitch
Stepping up a bit in complexity, the Coptic stitch gives a more robust binding that is good for making thicker books. Books made with a Coptic stitch can lay completely flat when opened, making them ideal for sketchbooks or journals.
For this technique, as demonstrated by @nubbynotes on Instagram, signatures are laid in groups on top of each other rather than slotting inside one another. Each set of signatures is stitched together one by one and secured with a sewn knot. The exposed spine creates a beautiful and visible stitch pattern.
Book binding materials you need
To get started with a simple book binding project you will need:
Paper – Plain pieces of paper to make up your inside pages and then a decorative sheet for your covers. Why not make your own decorative paper using this easy shaving foam marbling technique
Cutting mat – A sturdy cutting mat protects your work surface while you cut paper and other materials. Look for one with a grid for accurate measuring and straight cuts.
Craft knife – A sharp craft knife allows you to cut paper to size precisely. Opt for a hobby knife with replaceable blades for safety and control.
Glue – PVA glue works fine for simple book binding projects, it's best to have a glue spreader or wooden lolly stick to hand when using it to get a nice thin coat. Pritt stick can also be useful for holding parts of the project in place temporarily.
Clips – You can get specialist book binding clamps but for small projects fold back bull dog clips work great.
Binding needle – A binding needle looks like a more sturdy version of a regular sewing needle. They have a rounded tip similar to a darning needle and a large eye to accommodate thicker thread.
Thread – Strong good quality thread is crucial to keeping your binding together and looking neat. Linen or cotton thread is ideal; just be sure to choose a thickness that suits your binding technique.
Bone folder – This smooth, blunt tool is your secret weapon for creating clean folds and creases in your paper. It helps you precisely fold signatures and flatten glued areas without damaging your paper.
Awl – An awl is a pointed tool that creates holes in material. You could just use a needle for this but awls come with thick handles that are easy to grip making it more accurate and safer to use.
Book binding kits
If you want to try out book binding without having to purchase all the individual supplies, a book binding kit is the perfect option. The kits we've selected below come with everything you need to make your own custom book.
Do you love crafting? Share your creations with us by tagging @primamag in your pictures on Instagram!
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