Bookbinding is an open, multidisciplinary craft, which can incorporate illustration, graphic design, photography, printing, needlework, papercraft, and many other creative disciplines. This is one reason why it is so appealing to creatives, who can bring their particular set of talents and passions into the process of crafting a handmade book.
A centuries-old craft, contemporary bookmakers are finding new ways to interpret traditional binding techniques to create beautiful artisan books. This book aims to showcase the diversity and craftsmanship involved and inspire you to make your own.
The first section of this book presents a showcase of the inspirational work of bookmakers around the world. We begin by looking at methods of folded bindings, showing how a single sheet of paper can be transformed into pages for a book, or combined to create flowing origami structures. Then we focus on sewn bindings and the array of different stitches employed to bind pages and covers together, both functional and decorative. Having looked at ways to physically assemble a book we then move on to look at creative treatments for pages and covers and experimental packaging. These inspirational profiles also feature a ‘See Also’ helping you find more information about relevant techniques used.
The final section of this book provides practical step-by-step tutorials for recreating some of the techniques featured throughout, beginning with different folds, then stitches, then page and cover treatments.
Finally, a resources section at the back provides useful links to help you delve deeper into the world of book arts. By the time you turn the final page, hopefully you will be inspired and equipped to translate your own unique set of skills into a handmade book.
