Essential Bookbinding Supplies: Crafting Beautiful Books
Bookbinding takes patience, care, and a little mess. Whether you're making your first notebook or you’ve been binding for years, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here's a breakdown of the essentials I actually use — the things I recommend to anyone who wants to build beautiful, lasting books without breaking the bank.
1. Chipboard
The bones of your book. Go for chipboard that's over 40pt thick. Anything less might warp or bend over time.
2. 67lb Vellum Bristol Paper
Versatile paper is a bookbinder's best friend. Vellum Bristol Paper is known for it’s versatility. Reliable, flexible, and good with different mediums. It’s not your only option, but it’s a solid place to start.
3. Japanese Mulberry Paper, "Hanji"
Use Japanese Mulberry Paper, known as Hanji, as backing paper. It’s thin, strong, and reduces bulk in all the right places.
4. OLFA Utility Knife
A good quality utility knife is makes cutting so much easier! A sharp, snap-blade knife saves time and stress. I’ve used the OLFA for years. It’s reliable and easy to keep sharp.
5. Ruler
Don’t bother with plastic. Metal rulers survive blade cuts and keep your lines straight.
6. Cutting Mat
If you don’t have a cutting matt, get one. You’ll use it constantly.
7. Bone Folder
While some recommend specific materials for bone folders, I chose one for it’s affordability and functionality. Smooth creases, clean folds. Any decent one will do. I still use the first one I ever bought.
8. Binder Clips or Big Books
No book press? No problem. Binder clips work surprisingly well. Or stack a few heavy books to press glued sections.
9. PVA PH Neutral Glue
This is the good stuff. It dries clear, stays flexible, and won’t yellow over time. I get about 15 to 20 books from one medium bottle. If you’re making more than one, go up a size. And apply with a brush you don’t mind sacrificing.
10. Sewing Awl
Any sewing awl will do the job, and you can find them at local craft stores or online. It's a handy tool for creating holes for binding stitches.
11. Spool of Thread
Waxed thread is easier to manage and holds knots beautifully. I switch between thicknesses depending on the visibility of the spine. Thinner thread blends in when covered. Thicker thread makes your binding part of the visual design.
12. 100% Cotton Fabric
Fabric adds soul to your book. Cotton is ideal because it glues well, handles smoothing without bubbling, and stands up to wear. I love browsing local fabric shops to find patterns that feel personal or seasonal. Avoid anything too heavy or textured. It makes finishing harder than it needs to be.
13. Heat n’ Bond
This is the trick for clean, structured fabric covers. You want the thinnest version, roughly the thickness of printer paper. If it feels like felt, it’s too thick. Iron it to the back of your fabric before adding Hanji. It adds stability without stiffness.
Thanks for using my affiliate links if you do. It genuinely helps me keep making things.
Happy bookbinding.
