Getting started

Before you begin bookmaking, it is important to gather all of the tools you will be using, and have a good understanding of their purpose. Below is an overview of the basic tools you will need, as well as a description of how they are used.



1. Paper
Copy paper works great for the pages of your book, and some book structures require something a little thicker like cardstock. You can get creative by using textured or colored paper too.

2. Bookboard/chipboard
This hard cardboard can be found at most art supply stores like Blick, Utrecht, and Papersource, and it is used as the cover in most book structures. It comes in different thicknesses and sizes.

3. Self-healing cutting mat

4. Scissors

5. Utility knife or exacto knife

6. Bone folders
This is a flat plastic or bone tool used to impress lines or creases into paper, or to create smooth, sharp folds.

7. Awl
A pointed tool for marking surfaces or punching small holes.

8. Brushes
Old brushes or cheap ones from the hardware store work best since they will be used for gluing.

9. Glue
Lineco Neutral pH Adhesive is the best because it is archival. This white glue dries clear and fast. Any other PVA glue will work also.

10. Binder’s needle & thread
Heavy-duty binder’s needles are for sewing book signatures because they have a blunted point and a smooth eye to prevent thread snag. Linen thread is easiest to use for book binding since it is lightly waxed, but all types of thread, yarn, and string would work too.

11. Book cloth
This paperbacked fabric is acid free and usually comes in rolled sheets and a variety of colors. It is very durable and acid free. Used for covering books.

12. Rulers
Any ruler will work but sometimes it’s nice to have a clear one to see through, and a longer T-square to get right angles.