Experiment: Exploring the Art of Bookbinding

Bookbinding is an age-old craft that has gone through a multitude of transformations over the centuries. From being a laborious task undertaken by monks in medieval monasteries to becoming a mechanised process during the Industrial Revolution, bookbinding has always been at the heart of knowledge dissemination. Today, bookbinding has found a new lease on life as a creative and therapeutic craft.

At the Photography Studies College (PSC), we recently had the pleasure of hosting an introduction to book making course. This hands-on workshop was led by Erin Lee, a master in her craft, who guided us through the fascinating world of handbinding techniques. The focus was on three specific styles: Japanese Binding, Saddle Stitch, and Exposed Spine Binding. These styles not only represent different cultural influences but also different levels of complexity and design aesthetics.

Japanese Binding:

Japanese binding or 'Stab Binding', as it's commonly known, is a traditional Japanese method of bookbinding. It's characterized by its distinct pattern of stitching along the spine of the book. This style of binding is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

The process begins with folding the pages and cover into a booklet. Holes are then punched along the spine through all the pages. Using a needle and thread, the pages are sewn together following a specific pattern. The most common patterns are the four-hole, noble, and hemp-leaf patterns.

When designing a Japanese bound book, consider the thickness of your paper. Thicker paper can be more challenging to fold and punch holes through, but it can also provide a more robust and professional finish. Use a bone folder for crisp folds and an awl for clean hole punches. Experiment with different types of thread, like waxed linen or cotton, for different looks and durability.

Saddle Stitch:

Saddle stitch is a simple and popular method of bookbinding. It's often used for making pamphlets, brochures, and small booklets.

The process involves folding the pages in half and stapling them along the fold line or 'spine'. The staples pass through the folded crease from the outside and are closed on the centermost pages.

When designing a saddle stitch book, keep in mind that the number of pages must be a multiple of four. This is because each sheet of paper provides four pages to your book. Also, consider using a saddle stitch stapler; it's designed to reach the spine of larger booklets. For a more polished look, use a bone folder to make the folds crisp and even.

Exposed Spine Binding:

Exposed Spine Binding is a binding method where the stitches that hold the book together are visible on the spine, adding a decorative element to the book.

This binding technique involves sewing the pages directly onto the cover or a strip of cloth that forms the spine. The pages are usually grouped into signatures (small sets of pages) which are then sewn together.

This style of binding allows for creative exploration. You can experiment with different types of stitches, threads, and even beads or charms. However, ensure your thread is strong enough to hold the pages securely.


In conclusion, the book making workshop at PSC was not just an introduction to the craft of bookbinding, but also a journey into understanding the importance of precision, patience, and creativity in this process. It was a hands-on practical class that suited various learning styles, providing everyone with a unique experience.

The importance of creating a mock-up before embarking on the final product was a key takeaway from the workshop. This step is crucial in visualizing the end result, identifying potential issues, and planning the binding process accordingly.

In conclusion, the workshop was an enlightening and enriching experience. We walked away with practical knowledge about bookbinding techniques and a newfound appreciation for this intricate craft. Whether you're a seasoned bookbinder or a novice eager to delve into this art form, understanding and mastering these three styles can open up a world of creative possibilities.