Create Your Own Bookbinding Tool Kit

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a huge amount of fancy tools, or even a full tool kit to get started with bookbinding. But over time, building up your own set of tools can make the entire process run smoother, feel easier and in the end, produce a book of superior quality. Whether you're just beginning or ready to commit, I’ve broken this into three stages: Starter, Mid-Range, and Dream Kit. 

The Starter Kit: Just the Essentials

If you're a complete beginner and want to try your first - or just a couple of simple books - this is plenty.  These tools are affordable, easy to source and they'll get you started. 

• Bone folder

• 100% linen thread

• Bookbinding needle

• Craft knife (with fresh blades)

• Metal ruler

• Cutting mat

• PVA glue + small brush (or mini paint roller and tray)

Estimated Cost: $50 - $70 AUD

Mid Range Kit: Smoother Work, Better Finish

If you’ve taken a course, or you’re starting to bind more regularly, this is where the investment starts to pay off. These tools don’t just expand your options — they save time and reduce frustration.

To the above list you'll want to add in these: 

• Bookbinding press (or our Book Pressing Clamp)

• Piercing cradle

• Awl

• Teflon folder

• A few glue/paste brushes in different sizes

• Backing hammer (a cobbler's hammer works too)

• Waste boards / pressing boards

• Archival glue (bookbinding adhesive)

Estimated cost: $180– $280 AUD

This is the kit I recommend to students who are coming back to binding after the course — it helps you work more efficiently and get better results.

The Dream Kit: Tools for Life

For the committed hobbyist, artisan, or someone building a home bindery. 

On top of everything listed above, you might also want to include:

• Laying press + finishing press

• Sewing frame

• Board shear or guillotine

• Nipping press

• Band nippers & band stick

• Decorative hand tools or foil stamper

• High-quality leather and bookcloth

Estimated cost: $500+ AUD (and it can go much higher!)

These tools aren’t just functional — they’re beautiful, and often antiques! They’re made to last decades, and they often get better with use. I still use presses and hand tools I bought over 20 years ago, and many of them were already decades old.

A Note on Buying Tools

Don’t rush. Start with what you’ll actually use.

I’ve met plenty of people with a drawer full of expensive tools they never touch — and others who’ve made hundreds of books with a handful of basics.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Secondhand tools are worth hunting for — often better made, and built to last.

• Support local makers when you can. There are brilliant craftspeople making presses, cradles and tools across Australia and beyond. (Check out the Lost Trades Fair)

• Good tools hold their value — not just in dollars, but in use.

Ready to Begin?

You don’t need the dream kit to make something meaningful.

You just need a sharp knife, a thread that holds — and a bit of spare time.

If you’re looking for options, we have a few of the items on our website — from beginner kits to the workhorses that get used daily.

Shop Binding Tools Here