How to Make Books

Synopsis

From zines you can fold in a minute to luxurious leather journals and sumptuous sketchbooks, How to Make Books will walk you through the easy basics of bookmaking. Whether you're a writer, a scrapbooker, a political activist, or a postcard collector, let book artist Esther K. Smith be your guide as you discover your inner bookbinder. Using foolproof illustrations and step-by-step instructions, Smith reveals her time-tested techniques in a fun, easy-to-understand way.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Art of Bookmaking

* Introduction to the history and significance of bookmaking
* Exploring different bookbinding techniques and materials
* Importance of precision and attention to detail

Example: A leather-bound journal with intricate gold tooling and embossed covers.

Chapter 2: Basic Equipment and Materials

* Essential tools for bookbinding, such as bone folders, scissors, and needles
* Types of paper and other materials used in bookmaking
* Tips for choosing the right materials for your projects

Example: A hardcover book made with high-quality acid-free paper and durable book cloth.

Chapter 3: Preparing the Text

* Planning the layout and design of your book
* Gathering and formatting text and images
* creating a mock-up to visualize the finished product

Example: A travel journal with handwritten entries, sketches, and photographs.

Chapter 4: Folding and Gathering the Sheets

* Techniques for folding paper into signatures
* Gathering signatures in the correct order
* Using a sewing frame or a portable kit

Example: A pamphlet stitched with linen thread and a decorative cover.

Chapter 5: Sewing the Book

* Different sewing methods for various book types
* Thread choices and tension control
* Reinforcing the binding with a headband or a cap

Example: A hardbound book with a concealed linen stitch and a head-tail-band.

Chapter 6: Forming the Case

* Creating a case for the sewn book block
* Using bookbinding board and covering materials
* Attaching the case to the book block

Example: A cloth-covered case with a leather spine and gold lettering.

Chapter 7: Covering the Book

* Selecting and preparing the cover materials
* Applying glue and adhering the cover to the case
* Finishing touches such as a dust jacket or slipcase

Example: A full leather binding with a hand-lettered title and a blind-stamped design.

Chapter 8: Advanced Techniques

* Exploring more challenging bookbinding techniques
* Creating folded boxes, popup books, and other unique structures
* Tips for troubleshooting and solving problems

Example: A custom-made wedding album with an accordion-style binding and a fabric-covered cover.

Chapter 9: Book Repair and Restoration

* Identifying and assessing book damage
* Basic repair techniques for torn pages, loose bindings, and damaged covers
* Ethical considerations in preserving historic books

Example: Restoring an antique book with water damage by cleaning, repairing the spine, and rebinding it in a compatible style.

Chapter 10: The Joy of Bookmaking

* Benefits of pursuing bookbinding as a creative outlet and a form of self-expression
* Sharing your passion with others and inspiring a love of books
* Preserving stories and knowledge for future generations

Example: A personal library filled with handcrafted books that reflect the owner's interests and memories.