I’ve had a lot of interest in my bookmaking hobby so I figured I’d share an easy guide on how to get started! Like most hobbies there’s a small upfront investment to gather all of your supplies and materials. Fortunately, bookmaking is a relatively affordable hobby so there’s not too much that you have to get.
I’ve organized things into two sections: “necessary basics” and the “nice to haves.” The basics are required supplies while the “nice to haves” you can make do without and use goods lying around the house instead. Most everything can be bought at Blick, while other items I buy online from Hollander’s, a specialty paper goods store.
Bookmaking Basics
- Paper *
- Card stock – You can get beautiful decorative paper at any craft store like Paper Source, Michael’s, Joann Fabrics. Just make sure it has a good weight to it and isn’t too thick or thin.
- Needle *
- Waxed or Embroidery Thread *
- Bookboard *
- PVA Glue
- Glue brush
*All of these items are included in this affordable bookmaking kit ($11) from Blick if you’re interested. It will give you enough supplies for one book to see if it’s something you’re interested in before investing in other supplies. I’ve linked it here.
There’s also another bookmaking kit from Hollander’s that slightly more expensive ($55). I used this one for my first book and really loved it.
The Nice To Haves
- Book Cloth – This makes your book look professional. You can use it to wrap the spine or the entire book for a simple look.
- Craft Knife – I am obsessed with this one from Martha Stewart. I use it to cut my papers, book board, everything really. You can replace the blade with the original gets dull so its a good investment.
- Awl – This is used to poke holds in the books spine. If you don’t have this a sharp, pointy household item would do. I’ve seen folks use a nail with a hammer before.
- Book headbands -Like book cloth, this adds a beautiful/professional touch and a pop of color to your book’s binding.
- Bone Folder – Use this for sharp creases when making your signatures.
- Cutting Mat – This will save your counters. I love this one by Martha Stewart.
Get Started !
There are tons of bookmaking tutorials out there. I prefer youtube videos since I learn by “watching.” I’ve linked a few good ones that I’ve used below:
If you’re really serious about bookmaking take a class! If you’re in Chicago there are a few in the area, I’ve linked them below.
- Twin Peaks Press – Hard Cover Bookmaking Class
- Spudnik Press* – Bookmaking courses
* I personally took classes at Spudnik Press and really enjoyed the experience. I took this 8 week class that gave me a good grounding in the basics.
Here are some pics of the beautiful goodies I made recently! I prefer books with a simple, clean look but its fun to develop your own style and aesthetic. I hope I’ve inspired you to get into book arts – its a beautiful and relaxing hobby.
If you’re interested in other paper based arts – check out my DIY Silhouette Art tutorial here !
No portion of this post is sponsored. However, there are a few affiliate links included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links. Thank you for reading and supporting My Petite Joys!
