How I make bookcloth from any fabric

Materials used in the video:
✦ Cotton/linen blend fabric
✦ Heat n Bond lite
✦ Unryu tissue paper, 20g
Other videos about book cloth that have helped me:
✦ DAS Bookbinding - • DIY Bookcloth; Backing...
✦ Sea Lemon - • DIY Book Cloth for Boo...
Watch me make my first square sketchbooks in this studio vlog! • Bookbinding Studio Vlo...
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Produced on the unceded territories of the Gabrieleno Tongva people. Learn more: native-land.ca/

[@bittermelonbindery]

If you want a comprehensive guide on beginner bookbinding, my new book is coming out on December 5, 2023! Every preorder gets a bonus ebook with extra content. Go to my website for preorder links: www.bittermelonbindery.com

[@rostunes]

aaa that's so cool I'm gonna pre-order!

[@zajournals]

*Note to newbies*... be careful not to iron the heat-and-bond to your ironing board. Been there done that. 😁

[@49lucky]

Me 2😅😅😅😅😅😅

[@chwethington]

I’ve been on a mission to turn all of my board/card games into books similar to the Vintage Bookshelf Edition games sold by hasbro and it has been such a journey of mashing book binding and box making so videos like this are SO helpful. Thank you even years later.

[@bittermelonbindery]

Hey all! What tutorials would you like me to make this year?

[@misshellspawn6505]

Making the Headbands and reinforcing the spine mostly. and maybe just talking about the supplies you use.

[@juliacole3941]

how you cut the bound pages so that they're all even

[@pirroppi]

Construction of layflat sketchbooks might be a good one (cased binding). I have made so many sketchbooks for myself that didn't turn out the way I wanted it to. My issue tends to be that the signatures split when I open to those parts of the book and I have never been able to figure out why. I have followed tutorials and still never get a good result. I just don't know what I need to adjust and it's probably my lack of understanding/knowledge on the "science" of bookbinding. Also, have you ever used thicker patterned paper for covers? I have endless amounts of these from my scrapbooking days but I'm not sure if these would be way too thick to work with. On a sidenote, I hope you are adjusting well to your new home!

[@amberzeng7933]

I don't know if you've done it already but rounding and backing would be cool

[@Anvii.M]

It would be helpful if you do a video on all the materials you use for bookbinding please

[@Narja23]

That's so cool! Thanks for sharing your process with us! I can't wait to try it! 💕

[@strrb8578]

I've lost my job recently and I'm still young and figuring out what I want to do in life. I love bookbinding and have been doing some (very lame) journals as a hobby for a few years now. I would love to try to make bookbinding my job, just like you, but the ressources are expensive and I don't know where to get started. Have you thought about maybe doing a video explaining your journey, and maybe give tips?

[@applejuice319]

How are you doing now?

[@strrb8578]

@@applejuice319 Wow lol, didn't remember leaving that comment ! I found another job in my field soon after and it's been 2 years now. Didn't end up getting in book binding at all in the end :)

[@evewhoo]

@@strrb8578I think that if you or anyone wants to get into a profession like this where materials are expensive, it's probably easier to work a primary job first, learn the ropes of the craft on the side, and earn enough money over time to build up your supplies stock. Then, start selling what you make as a side job. If you're successful and make enough to support yourself and afford supplies, then you can think about quitting the primary job. That'd be my strategy. It won't be easy though cuz custom products like these can be hard to sell vs mass manufactured ones if you don't have a good enough reputation yet. Some people love custom, handmade products over the cheap mass produced stuff, but we also live in an age where people are saying we should replace artists with AI so....

[@vanorange]

Such refreshing colors!

[@angelinabrown3142]

This was tremendously helpfully. I'm just getting into book binding and I have so much to learn!

[@Greenmaninthedesert]

Thank you! Really impressed with the way you share your skills and information.

[@numivis7807]

thank you! this is making me so confident in trying my own bookcloth

[@susanmessenger9052]

Thank you for a high quality book cloth video tutorial. Your attention to detail is terrific and you get the right results because you take the time to do everything right. Happy New Year 2024.

[@nayarin9]

Welcome back Chanel! I discovered your videos a week ago and I already watched them all in a marathon hahaha Well, I'd like to see how you make the decorations you put on the top and bottom of the spine so that there's no hollowness visible, the ones you make with elastic band! And the way you make the elastic closures as well 😊

[@theredrover3217]

I am so glad KZbin suggested this. Short but sweet focused on an aspect. I will be searching your channel for more about something I've wanted to do. I have books but nothing beats seeing, great bonus with your experience tips. OH! My bad. 😔 Question on paper making, I see NOW you have a video on that. Forgive my inadequate look at your videos. Will definitely check that out. 😊

[@Gamarishi]

I discovered this method in your channel and I'm experimenting with different papers and different fabrics, overall that's a great method for making book cloth!

[@yomyomcam]

I recently found your channel, I would like to make book and notebook covers and the information you share has come in handy. Thank you for sharing your work and knowledge. Your hands are so beautiful, the hands of an artist.

[@drfranke]

glad to see you back after your trip. Hope you were able to center and balance after your move.

[@Maria-yu5je]

Just a couple of tips for the fabric: At 0:46 you see that one centimetre on top where the fabric is finished off?? well just cut it and throw it away it is not usable. When sticking on the heat and bond do not drag the iron on top of it just place it down for a couple of second and then move it around by lifting it not dragging it . And at last the small bubbles created when ironing the heat and bond are from the iron itself, you actually need a professional iron to make it perfectly but it is only for looks it doesn’t affect the way it sticks on Amazing video I loved it ❤️❤️

[@starfieldofviolet]

This is helpful advice! And could you tell us what elevates an iron to professional level? What brands/models do you recommend? Thank you!

[@vadimmanevich3751]

That is very cool, I also used Sea lemon and DAS to get started. They are pretty cool. Das is more pro, for sure.

[@weinaxu566]

Happy New Year! Thank you so much for this video in the new year. I found your very interesting videos during the Christmas holiday, really enjoyed to watch them. They remind me a lot of old style of Chinese book I've read when I was little. But sadly we don't always see these kind of books now. And your videos have opened my mind about bookbinding. Last year I started to make my own sketch books at home, use recycled books or old and pretty gift bag. I'm an artist, to make and design own sketch books was very enjoyable when it's lockdown last year. yes, I learn a lot from my past, my family ,friends, the nature world and from you, too. Thank you so much! Best Wishes xx

[@thattreethere505]

I’ve been really into so many projects lately and bookbinding has been one of them. My goal this year is to try and make a prototype planner with my people’s language AND numerals, Iñupiatun. I know I could go through a company to mass produce the planners, but I have a very specific theme, aesthetic, and look for what I want to create. Plus, I just like creating things, even if I don’t go through with selling them (although, I would like to!). With that said, this video has immensely helped me into making my own book cloth. I just ordered some materials online and I just need to wait for them to get in. I watched other videos on how to create book cloths but this one was the most detailed yet quickest video I came across.

[@christinamoxon]

I saw a new video by you and I jumped on it! Happy New Year! Hope you're settling in well. I love watching those long videos of you bookbinding. The longer the better. Just watching you make books is a peaceful pleasure. I particularly loved the ASMR one you did making those gorgeous yellow sketchbooks. Thank you for explaining the process you go through making book cloth and for sharing other sites where people can get more information. It's really kind of you to share your knowledge and skills with the world. Take care - can't wait for your next video! Best wishes from England.

[@bittermelonbindery]

Thank you Christina! 💖

[@MultiTrinket]

Good video, and I love DAS bookbinding, he is so knowledgeable.

[@ellebannana]

Debating whether to click on this video and then immediately becoming relaxed and content when I hit play 😇 Love your channel, and especially your clarity in direct description.

[@sigisig3941]

Oh I just found your Videos this month and I am so happy to see them. there so interresting and well made.

[@barbaracabrera207]

This is great video. Just what I needed right now. I'm about to make my 1st journal book cover. Really didn't know WHAT to use. 1st time I've seen your channel. Thx for video. Austin,TX USA

[@Turgon92]

Yeeeah Sea Lemon and DAS! Online teachers for how many of us i wonder?!

[@starfieldofviolet]

And I'd love to see people donate more to these teachers! It's not just their knowledge they provide, but the hours of filming, editing, voice-overs, etc. that go into each video. Even donating a dollar per video that helps you is fair and kind! Of course, taking into consideration what the same amount of knowledge would cost you in a live class or Book Arts program, donating more than a dollar is preferable! Please consider this, everyone! 🥰

[@rachelhaywood833]

I was just googling how to do this! Thank you!

[@Kuesa]

lol i love the shoutout to das and sealemon would love to hear your process for adding the cover too!

[@fufufuaru]

the colorssssssss 💛

[@zabebebe704]

So cool!! I always use glue, this is amazing and very handful, thanks for sharing this, it's nice to learn different ways to do things ❤

[@williamal91]

brilliant, heat n bond thanks for sharing

[@pixelmountainstudios]

Perfect. Thank you so much.

[@WoodlandInspired]

Hello! You did an awesome job explaining everything, enjoyed your video. Hope all is well, take care! 💜

[@annettewalley1089]

Thank you for sharing. I am just beginner. Love your videos.

[@kenemesay]

I'm a new subscriber and notices just 3 days ago you had 8.7K subs and now you're sitting at 9.4K 🥺 super happy you got ±700 subs in just 3 days

[@mr.acrylic9446]

now it’s 34.4K

[@dorotakotulska7969]

Thank you for this video❤

[@ai-man212]

I used to do something similar with cornstarch gel for stiffness. Might be worth experimenting with. I would stretch it first on a canvas stretcher. I suppose that economy would be the reason to try it. I'm not sure how well the tissue would cling to it wrinkle-free, but it could be worth a try. Just like making pudding with cornstarch and water. It dries transparent and sturdy.

[@annaschiabel1682]

😍 💗 I love every single video, I was hoping you could do some tutorials too, I'm so happy now, Thank you! ❤️ Best wishes from Italy!!

[@BilliesCraftRoom]

thank u so much for this, wonderful video thank you

[@Laura-xs1nh]

Thank you so much!

[@christinemylinh]

Wow, this is exactly what I needed! Thank you!! What are your thoughts on Pellon interfacing or other types of interfacing?

[@lauraguglielmo]

I would love to know more about the cutting tools you use! The only time I attempted bookbinding I had major troubles with making my book block nice and even : \

[@MrGAETANO25]

Hi,tnks very clear video

[@TheBookDoctor]

A detailed signature sewing tutorial would be great!

[@celinavarchausky5333]

Thank you so much!!!!!!

[@chelseyummali]

found your fabric video. thank you

[@kavitaartworkofficial]

Nice video💕💕

[@supsketches]

Ahh I'm absolutely in love with your channel.

[@darhopkins5433]

Apparently she rarely answers questions personally but I may have some helpful information that I found in another video on her channel and I'll be glad to answer this. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro. Hopefully this is helpful.

[@claudiar98]

Hola, me encanta tu canal, los proyectos que realizas son maravillosos! Tal vez es mucho, pero estaría genial que tus videos tuvieran la opción de subtítulos en español, te mando un gran abrazo!!

[@NicoleNataleAtelier]

Excellent video! What kind of threads are you using?

[@mr.nobody6059]

first time i use fabric to make book cover is used denim pants. but i find it to thick for hardcover, so i change it with american drill fabric. usually used for formal pants. i think it's perfect fabric material, not too thick, not too thin also, at least for my preference. i gluing paper board directly to the fabric with pva, no need to apply heat adhesive at all.

[@lenanana8]

This is really helpful, thankyou! Can you use cotton cloth for book covers without the heat-n-bond? Can you use rice paper instead of tissue paper?

[@bountyarchive]

Hi! Big fan. Do you know anything about gold foiling on book cloth or have a video you can recommend?

[@matthewbiamonte993]

Hi! I'm just starting out on my bookbinding journey and would love some information on paper. I have been making little books with cardstock paper and buttons and trying to find paper that works well with bookbinding and calligraphy and I'm having trouble with either the ink bleeding or paper ripping when I sew it. Any info or links or whatever would be absolutely wonderful. But also not expensive, this is just a hobby not a business like you do.

[@ChikitokaChan]

I need advice! I tried this method with the HeatnBond Ultra Hold adhesive. The fabric i used was imperial broadcloth (65% polyester 35% cotton) and it was in the color navy blue. I noticed that the glue from the Heatnbond would seep through to the other side of the fabric, staining it. I mentioned the color because when i use lighter colored fabric, the glue stains were not noticeable. Does anyone have any tips and suggestions? Would the lite adhesive version solve this? A different fabric material? Thank you!!

[@gogadgo]

Is there a video showing you applying the cover?

[@julianovicente2186]

Can you make more of these videos? Like how to measure things etc thx

[@ThatLynnGirl]

When I used to make small books (decades ago), I just used a sheet of computer paper and white glue with my fabric. Are you wasting that beautiful mulberry paper for the back side of the book cloth where it will never be seen? Anyhoo, is your heat n bond archival or acid free?

[@jam4441]

Also there is a Heat and bond "featherlite" that KZbinr Nic the booksmith uses.

[@loveisjoynpain]

Hi, thank you for sharing the information regarding bookcloth. I have been making my grandson a keepsake box for his 15th birthday. I have been searching high and low trying to locate the kind of "faux leather" to cover the wooden box with, which lead me down the path of bookcloth. Unfortunately, I have come to another dead-end because I have sampled enough to find out I need faux leather that is very think but will not tear while applying the glue to the material and the wood. I've done 4 test now and have encountered problems with the inside of box. As I began gluing as the inside walls and the last 1/8" onto the bottom it becomes bulky. Then when I glue the last piece of material onto the inside bottom it's uneven and all four corners are lumpy. Any suggestions would greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Deb

[@jennielawson7838]

Hi, after watching you make a few books, I wondered why you use 'Unryu Tissue Paper' rather than plain...it's so beautiful with its threads and yet you don't get to see it in the final make up...is it something to do with the strength? Just curious :) Love the videos...so peaceful and relaxing...just what I need and hope to get round to making a journal for myself soon x best wishes for the New Year and your business! :)

[@moseyonover733]

Maybe it's acid free?

[@etoiles7039]

What can i use instead of that heat and bond thing?

[@ReesonablyGood]

Hi! Thanks for this. Is ironing the tissue paper on necessary? Would it be possible to peel of the Heat n Bond adhesive backing then stick the cloth straight onto the book board?

[@bittermelonbindery]

You can try ironing it on to the book board, but I'm not sure if it will adhere well enough at the turn ins (wrapping it around the edges). Glueing heat n bond to book board will not last, it will eventually come apart - this happened to me!

[@ReesonablyGood]

@@bittermelonbindery thanks!

[@elytgroup]

hello, I live in Canada and I would like to know where you can get your supplies. thank you. I would like to see you make junk journals.

[@ama200]

can i do this to a denim fabric?

[@joanpringle-canning2834]

🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@alexvn003]

would it be possible to use the paper from the heat n bond itself instead of tissue paper? 🤔 by peeling it off, turning it around and ironing it on

[@ThiTran-pe4kt]

Thank you, your video is great. I have a question, please give me some suggestions. In my locality, I cannot buy "unryu tissue paper". Can I use another material instead? Thank you

[@bittermelonbindery]

Look for kozo or mulberry paper around 30 gsm!

[@madysonhill5255]

I’m new to book binding and trying to find cheaper alternatives. Is it cheaper to do this or just to buy it

[@KJ-zr2ko]

❤ i was just wondering why we count use the iron on glue, to stick the cloth to the book? Would this work? If not, why not?

[@trishitaghatak6964]

Instead of unryu tissue paper, can I use tracing paper?

[@pixelmountainstudios]

What is the weight of the tissue paper or does that matter?

[@starfieldofviolet]

I'd like to ask about your term "tissue". If we are not specifically seeking out Unryu tissue, what are alternatives? We're clearly not talking about the sort of tissue paper that is used for gift-wrapping. So what constitutes tissue in this context? What types, thicknesses, brands, stores, etc. should we be looking for? Thank you very much!

[@ceejpeej14]

You can use mulberry paper as well.

[@m.s.c.3803]

I cannot find the Unryu paper in Europe. Do you know of any place where to buy it in Europe? Thanks

[@cynthia-br2zb]

🌹🥰

[@remcodelouw1968]

I tried this before seeing this video but for mee the glue of the heat n bond seeps through the cloth, if I am really careful and it doesnt it still happens at the heat transfer vinyl step.

[@exhibitjean]

Can u do a tutorial on the steps after this video, to cover the book?

[@user-zi1vd7gw4h]

How to you seal the fabric for a longer durbal time

[@jkafie]

I wonder if you prewash your fabric ?

[@chriskoch1241]

Total newbie question: How could one put a title or illustration on a diy-bound book, either soft or hard cover?

[@pamwaldron3504]

It would be easiest to apply title before adhering the cloth to the cover boards. Or, adhere cloth to cover boards and then add title. It is possible to add title once book is bound, but it all depends on how you're adding the title and what composition is of the cloth (sublimation, foiling, hand painting, screen printing, etc)

[@drewdmd]

Could you also just leave beat n bond paper on instead of putting tissue paper on after?

[@glennlopez6772]

Shouldn't the fabric be washed to remove any sizing which could host fungus and mildew!

[@prunabluepepper]

And this is why we need to see the downvotes. Waste of time.