Book Binding Workshop

In the workshop we were taught three different types of bookbinding.

The first is known as: 

First we had to fold each individual page in half with the bone folder, and then place them all together.  We then had to use a Japanese screw punch to create three different holes in the fold of the paper.

We then had to sew in and out of the holes and create a knot to ensure that the book had been properly binded. 

The next method we were taught is called: Japanese side stitch.

We drew a line half an inch from the side of the paper, we then made five different points of which we would drill into.

Once the holes had been drilled we clipped the paper together to ensure it didn't move whilst sewing the binding. 

First you have to sew through the fifth page of the book to the front.

Once sewn thread back to the fifth page and tie a double knot to ensure the binding is strong and secure.

Here is a website I found which I think will be useful if the process is forgotten: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Bookbinding/Japanese_side_stitch

The third binding method we were taught is known as a constantine bind.

We had to mark and 'x' on both sides of the portrait paper front and back.  This was so that when it came to sticking them down we knew which areas needed glue.

Once glued the pages should open as above.

Above is the material used for the hardback aspect of this book.  We drew around thick cardboard then cut about an inch away from that measurement so that we could fold it over for a neater look.  We then cut around half a centimeter away from the corners to avoid excess material when folding.

When glueing the material down you have to smooth it over and then use your nails to push in on the sides of the board.  Then when folding over to the other side you have to lift and push so that you get a smooth finish.

Once we completed the cover we then glued it to the front and back pages of the already glued paper.  As you can see above there is slight excess where I have folded the cover over- this is because I didn't cut close enough to the corner initially.  A mistake I will rectify next time.