We Craft The Book, You Create The Story...
SB Libris, known as 'Libris', was established as a boutique bindery in 2004. Such a unique business required a building of suitable character, so the workshop came to fruition inside a classic, Victorian building. Perfectly located in the Arts Precinct of Bendigo, Australia, Libris is nestled amongst galleries, theatres, cafes and other boutique businesses.
BESPOKE BOOK BINDING
A truly remarkable book is more than just pages—it’s a statement. Whether commemorating a company’s 150-year milestone, presenting a distinguished gift for a CEO, or creating a custom ledger designed for long-term use, our bespoke bindings are crafted to reflect the significance of their purpose.
RESTORATION
Your treasured books hold more than just pages—they hold history, memories, and meaning. Whether it's a family Bible, a beloved first edition, or a photo album passed down through generations, we specialise in restoring these heirlooms with the utmost care and respect.
WORKSHOPS
Learn the ancient craft of bookbinding in a one day, hands-on workshop in the heart of Bendigo’ s Arts Precinct. Under the guidance of an experienced bookbinder learn the skills required to create a traditional hand sewn, hard cover binding or a book housing using a range of materials and tools of the trade.
PERSONALISATION
Make your book truly one-of-a-kind with our bespoke personalisation service. All of our leather-bound books can be stamped with initials, names, dates, or titles - a beautiful way to commemorate a special occasion or create a meaningful gift.
Featured product
Bind your first book by hand.
Everything you need to make an A5, section-sewn hardcover journal with a traditional rounded spine. Designed by our bookbinder Simon and packed in a plywood toolbox that's yours to keep. No experience needed.
For the curious maker: the same materials and manual Simon uses in his in-person workshops, so you learn it properly from the start.
"I am now on my third created book! Had all the basics in it to create."
For the person who has everything: a gift they'll make, use and keep for years. Add gift wrapping at checkout and it arrives ready to give.
"Such a great gift idea, excellent quality and great service." (Darryl B.)
Made in Australia.
What's inside
- Thread and binding needle
- Bookbinding adhesive
- Bone folder
- Headbands
- Reusable timber templates and spacing guides
- Boxboard, calico and spine piece
- Book pages
- Book cloth and decorative paper in your chosen design
- Step-by-step manual
- Plywood toolbox to keep it all in
What you'll make
An A5 hardcover journal, sewn by hand and finished with a rounded spine. Most people make theirs over a weekend, allowing time for the glue to dry between steps. (In our in-person workshop it's made in a day, with Simon alongside.)
The templates and tools are reusable, and refill kits are available for your next book.
Gifting and Christmas delivery
Add gift wrapping for $5 at checkout. Not sure which design they'd like? Choose "Surprise Me" and we'll pick for you.
See our shipping page for Christmas postage dates.
Questions
Do I need any experience?
None at all. The manual takes you through each step with photos alongside.
Do I need anything else?
Just a pair of scissors. Everything else is in the box.
What if I get stuck?
Our online course, the Beginner's Bookbinding Blueprint, walks you through the same book on video, with Simon's tips along the way.
SHOP ONLINE
From the Bindery
The Binder's Bench
Handmade Book Gifts: 4 You Can Bind in a Weekend
Four handmade book gifts you can bind in a weekend, from a simple pamphlet-stitch notebook to a section-sewn journal that lasts for years. Just in time for Christmas.
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Free Beginner's Bookbinding Guide: What's Inside & Who It's For
Interested in bookbinding but not sure where to begin? Our free Beginner's Bookbinding Guide was made for exactly that. Here's what's inside, who it's for, and one small tip you can try tonight.
Read more
2027 Workshops Are Open (And Leather Binding Is Back)
The first round of 2027 bookbinding workshop dates is open, and for the first time since before 2020, we're also bringing back our intermediate Leather Binding workshop in the bindery. Here's why b...
Read more