Book binding.

This internship keeps getting better and better. Finding out there was space on a book binding class, I decided to give it ago. With straight lines, accuracy and perfecting neat and tidy edges not being my strong points, I knew it would be challenge.

The demonstrations took a lot of concentration, but each step was well explained and was do able with a bit of perseverance.

The class enabled us to use all the correct equipment and the step by step demonstrations for each stage were helpful and informative. Making sure the paper was folded with the grain and at the right size, the next step was aligning the holes and piercing them through all the sheets, ready to sew the book together.

Sewing the pages together was a relatively easy stage of the book binding process, it only took some concentration and making sure everything was kept taut.

As well as using techniques, the class taught us new skills. Like the kettle stitch and the Japanese knot, that is shown in the image above, these are special book binding techniques to attach the pages at the right tension and positions.

A few one on one demonstrations were needed for the more fiddly bits, that we all struggled with. But soon the sewing was complete.

We had a wonderful range of fun bright colours, for the end papers, front and back covers, page selecting ribbon and end braiding, it was a tough decision which colours to choose!

Attaching all the components and pieces together took a lot of careful cutting, sticking and accuracy, but eventually the book was taking shape and the end result was looking hopeful.

As the class came to an end, we were all apprehensive to see how our books would turn out. Aligning and cutting the boards and fabric for the cover was one of the most difficult parts. I personally struggled to get my cuts straight and the right size  boards for my pages.

I chose this deep burgundy pink colour for my front and back cover. Nice contrast to the sunshine orange end pages inside and bright striped ribbon. Gluing the covers on was easier then expected and the odd air bubbles were relatively forgiving.

The end is near.We stacked our finished books up and put them under this old fashion Singer sewing machine as a heavy weight to compress the pages and help the books dry nice and flat.

I have kept my book under a heavy weight over night, as advised. So fingers it's all stuck nice and neatly by the morning!