The Binder's Bench

The Tools You Actually Need to Start Bookbinding (and Some You Don't)

You don't need a workshop full of specialised equipment to make your first handmade book. What you need is pretty simple and what you probably think is essential often isn't. Here's an honest guide...

How to Choose Your First Bookbinding Project

You save twenty beautiful books on Pinterest. You close Pinterest. Nothing changes. If that's where you are with bookbinding, here's how to pick your first project — and actually start.

The First Book is Often the Most Important

If you’ve been thinking about learning bookbinding but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. The first handmade book is rarely perfect — but it’s where everything begins. Here’s what to exp...

What Beginners Often Worry About?

When people first ask about learning bookbinding, there’s usually a moment of excitement. And then,almost straight after, a few doubts start to creep in. Things like: Am I creative enough?Is it too...

Thinking About Learning Bookbinding?

Interested in learning bookbinding but not sure where to start? We break down the basics, ease common fears, and share how our beginner-friendly course can help you make your first book without pri...

Behind the Bindery: How We Make Our Heirloom Albums

A closer look at how our heirloom albums are made — from heavyweight pages to hand-crafted spines and leather-bound covers. Built to last, and made to hold what matters most.

Create Your Own Bookbinding Tool Kit

You don’t need every tool to get started — just a few essentials and the time to begin. In this guide, Simon breaks down what’s truly useful at each stage: beginner, mid-range, and dream kit. Pract...

Choosing the Right Paper for Bookbinding: A Beginner's Guide

Not sure which paper to use?Start here. This simple guide walks you through the essentials — plus a free printable swatch sheet to keep by your workbench.

Make Your Own Book Cloth

With the recent launch of our online course, The Beginner’s Bookbinding Blueprint we have been talking a lot about bookbinding materials. In our beginner’s course (both online and in person) we cre...

Starting Out in Bookbinding: A Few Lessons

I started bookbinding by accident — helping out at my dad’s bindery while recovering from a back injury. I watched, followed along, and slowly found my way. Here are a few things I wish I’d known b...