20 Years, 20 Lessons in Bookbinding & Business
We didn’t set out to collect lessons. But twenty years on, they’ve found their way into our hands.
Some came quietly — after long hours in the bindery. Others arrived with more force (like the importance of writing things down… learned the hard way in 2022).
And many are simply truths that apply well beyond the bindery doors. Whether you’re starting a creative business or just curious about the craft, we hope a few of these stay with you.
Here are the twenty lessons (I really could have gone on further!)
1. Sharp knives save time.
2. You can’t rush quality.
3. Leather is a good teacher.
(It stretches and gives… but only so far.)
4. Coffee fixes most things.
5. There will be ups and downs.
It’s the long view that matters.
6. Don’t keep the details in your head.
Systems matter — especially when life throws you off course.
7. If you wouldn’t give it to a friend, don’t send it out.
8. A business can be as needy as a child.
And sometimes just as rewarding.
9. People will say things like, “Is there any money in that?”
Tune them out.
10. Running a business is about relationships — not just the work.
Customers. Suppliers. Community. That’s where the heart of it lives.
11. Know your numbers.
12. Have a mentor.
And seek new ones as you grow.
13. It’s not about what we want — it’s about the customer.
14. Go the extra mile.
That’s where the premium experience is made.
15. Keep looking for ways to improve and adapt.
It keeps the work interesting — and the business alive.
16. Listen only to those who’ve done what you aspire to do.
17. Not everything old needs replacing.
18. Take care of your tools.
They’ll take care of you.
19. Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s.
Craft — and business — both reward patience.
20. After twenty years, we’re still learning.
And that’s the best part.
A Note on Craft & Change
Bookbinding teaches you to pay attention. To take your time. To notice the small things — in paper grain, leather texture, even in the lessons each project offers.
Running a business teaches you much the same. The tools may change, but the principles stay steady: care, patience, curiosity. And a willingness to keep learning.
Interested in starting your own bookbinding journey?
Our free beginner’s guide is a good place to begin. [Get it here]
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