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Little Book of Book Making: Timeless Techniques and Fresh Ideas for Beautiful Handmade Books
Making books by hand has never been cooler, with this inspiring guide to 30 top bookmakers working today, plus 21 tutorials for essential techniques to make your own books.
Crafters, artists, writers, and book lovers can't resist a beautifully handbound book. Packed with wonderfully eclectic examples, this book explores the intriguing creative possibilities of bookmaking as a modern art form, including a wide range of bindings, materials, and embellishments. Featured techniques include everything from Coptic to concertina binding, as well as experimental page treatments such as sumi-e ink marbling and wheat paste. In addition to page after page of inspiration from leading contemporary binderies, Little Book of Bookmaking includes a practical section of 21 easy-to-follow illustrated tutorials.
Crafters, artists, writers, and book lovers can't resist a beautifully handbound book. Packed with wonderfully eclectic examples, this book explores the intriguing creative possibilities of bookmaking as a modern art form, including a wide range of bindings, materials, and embellishments. Featured techniques include everything from Coptic to concertina binding, as well as experimental page treatments such as sumi-e ink marbling and wheat paste. In addition to page after page of inspiration from leading contemporary binderies, Little Book of Bookmaking includes a practical section of 21 easy-to-follow illustrated tutorials.
192 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2014
82 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 7, 2016
Probably the most interesting parts of the book were the sections featuring work by book binders from around the world. The actual book binding instructions were unfortunately not the most clear or detailed. But there were a few great tidbits, like a ratio for making cornstarch paste instead of wheat paste (very useful for we celiacs).
December 14, 2019
Little Book of Bookmaking: Timeless Techniques and Fresh Ideas for Beautiful Handmade Books is divided into five sections. The first four ("Folded Bindings," "Sewn Bindings," "Page and Cover Treatments," and "Experimental Packaging") feature delightful examples of the art form created by book artists around the world. The last section, "Bookmaking in Practice," offers practical instruction and advice on a variety of techniques. The basic sewing guides are readily available in many standard books on binding, but the section on cover treatments (marbling, weaving, quilting, dyeing, and creating book cloth and paste papers) provides a wonderful range of straightforward, achievable processes. I borrowed this from our public library but will likely purchase a copy for my own reference. It's really worth it.
January 11, 2018
The first four chapters of the book are examples of different bindings and packaging from professionals around the world. It was interesting to look at the books and bindings other people have made, and good for inspiration I suppose.
The fifth and final chapter offers actual instructions on how to do certain bindings, covers, and papers.
Overall, good for what it was trying to do, but I would have expected more space given to technique and instruction than to the fresh ideas of other people.
The fifth and final chapter offers actual instructions on how to do certain bindings, covers, and papers.
Overall, good for what it was trying to do, but I would have expected more space given to technique and instruction than to the fresh ideas of other people.
January 11, 2021
Half of this book displayed gorgeous examples of various bookbinding techniques from a variety of artists. The other half explains some of these techniques, but not in the detail needed to create a book of the quality shown in the first half.
May 28, 2019
I love making handmade notebooks and journals, but mine are painfully obviously handmade. The notebooks pictured in this volume are actual works of art. Great book, very inspiring.
December 31, 2020
This books is half tutorial and half book artist “look book”. The first half of various artists is nice to see the creative techniques being used in the art book world. And if you’re looking for a inspiration it is helpful. I’m learning book making a repair to create my own books to eventually sell, so while inspiration is nice, I’m trying not to be influenced by others work or accidentally steal from them. The actual book making instructions don’t start until page 128. They are pretty decent and keep supplies to a beginner level which is nice. The diagrams are also very helpful, especially for stitching. The tutorials are basically copies of the featured artists, so I found the techniques helpful but would be careful not to do an exact copy since unless I plan to gift it rather than sell it.
October 6, 2023
For a little book of book making, there isn't a lot of space dedicated to actually making a book. The first 59% of the book is just photos of differently contracted books. Chapter 5, finally gets somewhere. The first 6 pages are all crude pictures of needed supplies with brief descriptions. You get a brief tutorial on how to make a few varieties of books (with pictures), and then when you get to the actual stitches, no pictures just description. So pay attention if you are trying to use this book as a starter's guide. on my e book pages 60-87 were all that was dedicated to actually MAKING a book.
Honestly I was pretty disappointed.
Honestly I was pretty disappointed.
June 18, 2017
Love the book for inspiration but be careful not to buy it twice like I did - it is also published under the title "I ❤️Handmade Books". I bought these from Book Depository where they were listed with two different descriptions and indications that people who bought the one also purchased the second.
December 27, 2024
less about how to actually bind books (and not much on multichapter, large-scale paperbacks) and more on showing various visual examples of bindings (more artsy books than functional)
wish it had more about replacements for certain items needed in the process (you will not be doomed if you don't have a book press for example, anything heavy will do)
wish it had more about replacements for certain items needed in the process (you will not be doomed if you don't have a book press for example, anything heavy will do)
Want to read
February 16, 2020Lovely gallery of work from around the world
A lovely chapter on Bookmaking in practice with a stitching directions.
Also some techniques for decorating paper.
Available at Seattle Public Library in print and e-book format.
A lovely chapter on Bookmaking in practice with a stitching directions.
Also some techniques for decorating paper.
Available at Seattle Public Library in print and e-book format.
abandoned
August 26, 2020June 3, 2020 – Started Reading
April 16, 2021
It's a beautiful book to flip through and enjoy the creativity of others. Not quite as useful on the DIY side, but I'm glad I checked it out!
February 6, 2023
interesting but was searching for a bit more substance...
May 10, 2023
Awesome resource on different types of books to create and different stitches to put these books together.
January 3, 2024
I very much enjoyed viewing the artistic choices made by expert bookbinders! Perhaps my favorite was the bindery that stitched the text block inside a clam shell.
February 26, 2024
The tutorials were a little hard to follow but informative nonetheless
April 29, 2024
Pages: 14, 15, 16, 25, 32, 40, 47, 58, 85, 91, 99, 113, 119
August 19, 2014
I originally thought this would be a really fun book for Munchkin as she loves the idea of making her own books. What I didn’t realize was how fun this book was going to be for me to browse. The first four chapters are filled with amazingly creative works of art in the form of books. I have no idea where these people come up with the ideas, but they are just way too cool. They use all different mediums to create the books. There are even books that look like slices of cake. Very cool.
I liked how each artist/book maker had their own feature. It told their story, and the story of their books. Of course, there were always full color images to capture your imagination and help your creative juices flow. The main technique(s) used in that particular book is then referenced to the book making section of this book.
The Bookmaking in Practice chapter of the book is where you get to put your skills to work. It starts with a basic overview of the tools and materials of the trade. It then dives into several different types of books, stitches, binding, papers, and covers. Each of the techniques shown contain written instructions as well as images to help you with the process.
This is where Munchkin felt a little disappointed as she would have liked to see step-by-step images to go along with the written instructions. Yes, many of the stages of the process were shown, but not all of them. When you’re first starting out in this process, it’s nice to have everything laid out in one place – especially for a visual, hands-on learner.
Because you can pick from the different types of books, stitches, covers…, you have to flip around to figure out the type of book that ultimately you want to create. While this isn’t a big deal once you get the hang of things, it’s a little intimidating the first time around. She would have liked to see one book created from start to finish with detailed instructions and illustrations before jumping into all the choices.
I personally liked the option of building your own book based upon the style that you desired, so it really is a personal preference thing. Overall, we both liked the book and all the ideas and skills that it presented.
Disclosure: I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
I liked how each artist/book maker had their own feature. It told their story, and the story of their books. Of course, there were always full color images to capture your imagination and help your creative juices flow. The main technique(s) used in that particular book is then referenced to the book making section of this book.
The Bookmaking in Practice chapter of the book is where you get to put your skills to work. It starts with a basic overview of the tools and materials of the trade. It then dives into several different types of books, stitches, binding, papers, and covers. Each of the techniques shown contain written instructions as well as images to help you with the process.
This is where Munchkin felt a little disappointed as she would have liked to see step-by-step images to go along with the written instructions. Yes, many of the stages of the process were shown, but not all of them. When you’re first starting out in this process, it’s nice to have everything laid out in one place – especially for a visual, hands-on learner.
Because you can pick from the different types of books, stitches, covers…, you have to flip around to figure out the type of book that ultimately you want to create. While this isn’t a big deal once you get the hang of things, it’s a little intimidating the first time around. She would have liked to see one book created from start to finish with detailed instructions and illustrations before jumping into all the choices.
I personally liked the option of building your own book based upon the style that you desired, so it really is a personal preference thing. Overall, we both liked the book and all the ideas and skills that it presented.
Disclosure: I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
September 2, 2014
This fun little find came to me via Blogging for Books and it was a little surprise. I picked it because I love books, I love writing, and I love the idea of making books. Always been sort of fascinated by the concept of creating a book from start to finish, including the pages, the binding, the actual book. Clearly, I am not the only one.
Charlotte Rivers' tome creates a world of bookmaking artists, designers, and hobbyists who desire the same thing: to create a book from start to finish. It's a fascinating journey between many pages where one artist creates a book with simple accordion pages and another creates a complex book with creative covers, experimental page dyes, and specialized stitching to bind them all together. Either way, it is artistry encapsulated on every page.
As I mentioned earlier, I was a bit surprised when I flipped open this book. I expected a book on how to make books, which this one does include. However, the first four chapters showcase different artists around the globe and their conceptual creations. The final chapter has all the how-to info about how to create your very own creation.
I was a bit perplexed as I thumbed through the pages. Wasn't this book supposed to show you how to make your own book? It is a book about making books, after all. Each book creation is beautiful, but they seem incredibly complex for a beginner to even attempt. These designers have spent years mastering their craft and I'm just looking to possibly create a simple book with some pages in it. I love the idea, but I haven't put in my 10,000 hours of skill mastery yet.
And then I hit page 121 and nearly fell in love. It was then I realized that this book is all about inspiration with a bit of extra guidance at the end. It's meant to share the love of this work (and the journey you must go on to create them) with those who may not understand the depth of creative wells that each bookmaker must go to in order to create such lovely and extraordinary bound pages. Now, I understand. Bookmaking can be about holding a bunch of pages together or it can be about holding together the possibility of what might be contained inside. The inspiration is all up to the creator.
Charlotte Rivers' tome creates a world of bookmaking artists, designers, and hobbyists who desire the same thing: to create a book from start to finish. It's a fascinating journey between many pages where one artist creates a book with simple accordion pages and another creates a complex book with creative covers, experimental page dyes, and specialized stitching to bind them all together. Either way, it is artistry encapsulated on every page.
As I mentioned earlier, I was a bit surprised when I flipped open this book. I expected a book on how to make books, which this one does include. However, the first four chapters showcase different artists around the globe and their conceptual creations. The final chapter has all the how-to info about how to create your very own creation.
I was a bit perplexed as I thumbed through the pages. Wasn't this book supposed to show you how to make your own book? It is a book about making books, after all. Each book creation is beautiful, but they seem incredibly complex for a beginner to even attempt. These designers have spent years mastering their craft and I'm just looking to possibly create a simple book with some pages in it. I love the idea, but I haven't put in my 10,000 hours of skill mastery yet.
And then I hit page 121 and nearly fell in love. It was then I realized that this book is all about inspiration with a bit of extra guidance at the end. It's meant to share the love of this work (and the journey you must go on to create them) with those who may not understand the depth of creative wells that each bookmaker must go to in order to create such lovely and extraordinary bound pages. Now, I understand. Bookmaking can be about holding a bunch of pages together or it can be about holding together the possibility of what might be contained inside. The inspiration is all up to the creator.
May 26, 2021
An overview of books made by artists and artisans. Good at telling you what style of book is being used and perhaps pointing out interesting additions. Not really intended for step-by-step instruction. An inspiration book for bookmakers or those interested in bookmaking.
December 31, 2014
I am an avid scrabbooker, I love smashbooks, I have sketchbooks, nature journals and I keep a daily journal so I was confident that the Little Book of Book Making would be very beneficial to me in all my artistic endeavors and I was right!
This "little book" comes in a convenient size, 7.5 x 7.5 inches, but don't let the size fool you. Within it's pages it is packed full of beautiful pictures and instruction. It has all the information you need to start making your own books! Be prepared to me motivated and get your creative juices flowing.
The first two sections of this book is packed full of pictures of the inspirational work of different bookmakers. It shows the different methods of folded bindings and the different methods of sewn bindings.
Next you will find a section on page and cover treatments. Again, there are a ton of beautiful pictures to give plenty of inspiration so you can make your own unique books.
Section four concentrates on the book packaging, or cover. This chapter gives you a lot of info on how to make your book stand out.
The last section of the book is the best! It gives you the "how-to". It gives pictures and description of the tools needed to make your own books. It then goes through step by step instructions on how to make several different styles of books. It includes materials you will need and special tips!
This handy size book gives all the information you need to start making your own books. I am seeing lots of mini books, journals, Christmas gifts and more in my future! If you love to be creative and think you will enjoy bookmaking this book is just the think you need to help you start your journey!
This "little book" comes in a convenient size, 7.5 x 7.5 inches, but don't let the size fool you. Within it's pages it is packed full of beautiful pictures and instruction. It has all the information you need to start making your own books! Be prepared to me motivated and get your creative juices flowing.
The first two sections of this book is packed full of pictures of the inspirational work of different bookmakers. It shows the different methods of folded bindings and the different methods of sewn bindings.
Next you will find a section on page and cover treatments. Again, there are a ton of beautiful pictures to give plenty of inspiration so you can make your own unique books.
Section four concentrates on the book packaging, or cover. This chapter gives you a lot of info on how to make your book stand out.
The last section of the book is the best! It gives you the "how-to". It gives pictures and description of the tools needed to make your own books. It then goes through step by step instructions on how to make several different styles of books. It includes materials you will need and special tips!
This handy size book gives all the information you need to start making your own books. I am seeing lots of mini books, journals, Christmas gifts and more in my future! If you love to be creative and think you will enjoy bookmaking this book is just the think you need to help you start your journey!
August 28, 2014
A book of inspiration for all those with creative minds. This book shows that there is more to a book than a normal layout. The author spends 107 or more pages showing different folding of the signature papers making these books more works of art as well as functional books. There is information for MANY different book designers all over the world giving the reader many forms of inspiration.
This book isn't just about the history or how creative one can be with book making but the author also gives the reader vocabulary and how to's. Making this a "DYI on how to make your own books". There is also a section of resources on where to find the materials you need.
I give this book a sold 5 stars, for the interesting information and how to's in one little book. I have been trying to find the inspiration to repair some old books that need new spins or covers and I found it in this book.
DISCLAIMER: I received this book free from Blogging for books for this review. I pride myself on an honest review. Therefor just because I received this book for free for my review, I review these books unbiased.
This book isn't just about the history or how creative one can be with book making but the author also gives the reader vocabulary and how to's. Making this a "DYI on how to make your own books". There is also a section of resources on where to find the materials you need.
I give this book a sold 5 stars, for the interesting information and how to's in one little book. I have been trying to find the inspiration to repair some old books that need new spins or covers and I found it in this book.
DISCLAIMER: I received this book free from Blogging for books for this review. I pride myself on an honest review. Therefor just because I received this book for free for my review, I review these books unbiased.
September 22, 2014
This is a great book for book lovers! If you love books, especially hand made books, you should get your hands on this one. Most of the book is dedicated to showcasing books that have been made by artists all over the world. I was amazed by most of the books. They were gorgeous! I wish that there had been instructions spread throughout the book, but all the techniques were clumped together at the back.
The instructions were easy to understand and follow. The supplies wouldn't be too difficult to find, and the books ranged in difficulty to make. There are several different binding techniques, cover and paper treatments, and book spine stitches included.
This would make a great gift for someone that is crafty or that loves books.
Source: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The instructions were easy to understand and follow. The supplies wouldn't be too difficult to find, and the books ranged in difficulty to make. There are several different binding techniques, cover and paper treatments, and book spine stitches included.
This would make a great gift for someone that is crafty or that loves books.
Source: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2014
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this honest review.
R: Recommended (This is at the top of the pile.)
Give it Time (It'll grow on you.)
Pros:
• Easy to read layout with informational text and photographic examples
• Multiple examples from all over the world
• Great hands-on, step-by-step projects
• Ability to lay the book flat while working on your projects
• Written without too much unexplained jargon
Cons:
• The title led me to believe the book would focus more on making your own projects
Overall, I really enjoyed both the layout and subject matter. Having recently completed a college course in bookbinding, I would highly recommend this book to anyone taking a similar class or who is interested in learning about bookbinding across the globe. Public and school libraries would find this title to be a useful addition to their craft section.
R: Recommended (This is at the top of the pile.)
Give it Time (It'll grow on you.)
Pros:
• Easy to read layout with informational text and photographic examples
• Multiple examples from all over the world
• Great hands-on, step-by-step projects
• Ability to lay the book flat while working on your projects
• Written without too much unexplained jargon
Cons:
• The title led me to believe the book would focus more on making your own projects
Overall, I really enjoyed both the layout and subject matter. Having recently completed a college course in bookbinding, I would highly recommend this book to anyone taking a similar class or who is interested in learning about bookbinding across the globe. Public and school libraries would find this title to be a useful addition to their craft section.
June 17, 2015
I love the art of book making and book binding. It was my favorite college class in my fine arts major. The majority of this book showcases a handmade book from an individual artist or small press. The designs are creative and innovative and are accompanied by a few paragraphs from the artist describing the method used or thought behind the process. The photographs are small since the size of the book is about 7 inches square. The tutorials at the end of the book are brief and sometimes vague, with mediocre diagrams. This is a good book to pick up for those seeking inspiration for unique ideas, but not for instructional purposes on actual techniques.
(Thank you to Potter Craft and Blogging for Books for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Potter Craft and Blogging for Books for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
October 14, 2014
This book is about four-fifths inspiration and one-fifth instructional reference guide. The photos of handmade books offer beautiful examples of what one can create by following the tutorials in the back of the book. Even though the section dedicated to instruction is relatively slim, it's potent with illustrated step-by-step instructions. There's also a nice diagram showing the anatomy of a book, a guide to bookmaking tools and materials, a directory featuring the websites of the artist contributors, and a list of resources which comprises bookbinding suppliers, websites dedicated to book arts, and more.
January 5, 2015
I thought this book was going to be about actually making books, but it's more about different styles that are to help one find inspiration for their own designs. There is a small section at the back for doing the actual work and honestly the illustrations are not overly helpful. Perhaps someone who has a little more experience will find the inspiration that the book actually intends.
December 23, 2016
Overwhelming !!!
The Book is a Treasure Trove for Craft lovers ! It displays many stunning works by artistes around the world and there is a section on creating some too...
Someday, will tryout the art of bookmaking using this book.
Excellent Book to treasure, if your interests lies in creating something !!!
The Book is a Treasure Trove for Craft lovers ! It displays many stunning works by artistes around the world and there is a section on creating some too...
Someday, will tryout the art of bookmaking using this book.
Excellent Book to treasure, if your interests lies in creating something !!!
August 14, 2014
I was inspired simply paging through this book, so many amazing pictures and projects... Learn more about book making and then make your own!
Read my full review: http://aboutfamilycrafts.com/little-b...
Read my full review: http://aboutfamilycrafts.com/little-b...
December 11, 2014
The 4 stars rating is really a guess. This is my quide for my winter hobby - bookmaking. This is the winter I try it. At the end I may revise the rating. It all depends of how well the directions are written, not how well I can follow them. ;)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews