Bookbinding Basics: Chapter 1 - Basic Tools - Easy Options to Get Started Bookbinding

[@trdsf]

I don't need another hobby I don't need another hobby I don't need another hobby I don't need another hobby I don't need another hobby ... XD

[@zerohandlesforme]

I feel you, dear. 😂

[@Jenniferatcreativeartspark]

Repeat after me, says my hubby…”No more hobbies!”

[@Raebourn]

The ad is still playing, the video hasn’t started yet and I’m already wondering how much it will cost to start a new hobby 😂

[@JamesBond-lt5tr]

You need another hobby 😊 your welcome 😂

[@helenspedding-lowe5469]

😂😂😂😂😂❤

[@ana_vicosa579]

You know the tutorial is good when there are diy options instead of a bunch of plastic-store-bought utilities

[@teabagninja]

Very thankful for this ❤

[@gmthe2nd]

This is such a great tutorial. No long intros, no annoying music, simple and clear instructions, offering DIY options instead of insisting on buying the highest quality tool - more people should follow your example!

[@Louise_Moura]

Straight to the point, clear descriptions and even gives tips? What is this, an awesome tutorial??? Thank you for sharing your knowledge, as a total beginner I appreciate it so so much ♡

[@talscorner3696]

Awesome tutorials? In this day and age?! Can't have that, can we? XD

[@Louise_Moura]

@@talscorner3696 in this economy?? Nah I don't think we can 🤣

[@stephanberger3476]

Another alternative for an awl: a dart from a darts set. You can leave the flights off, though.

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Ohh I like that one! Now I need a dart board in the bindery!

[@mantralayamsrinath9920]

The best tutorial or guide ever. to the point, no distracting music. precise explanation. A million thanks, Dennis.

[@liamfoxy]

I've always thought that of all common tools, the 'Bone Folder' is one that sounds the most horrifying if you don't know what it does.

[@oz_jones]

It folds the bone! As hand cranck cranks the hand

[@chibichibi51]

🤭

[@Beryllahawk]

OH! So that's what the funny end bit is for on my knife. I mean...uh... oh, who am I kidding, I hadn't a clue. I'm not the sort of person who always remembers to read up on a tool, haha! The bone folder I have wasn't super expensive but I got it a really long time ago. It's really interesting to know you can make one from wood too - I honestly thought the bone material was a vital part of the function, though I couldn't have told why that would be. Really looking forward to this series!!! Thank you so much for taking some time to help out us beginners!

[@Evelectrick.]

Thank you for making this video. I love how you not only explain consequences, but include footage to show what that looks like. I really appreciate how you’ve included DIY options and shared how to make them. I’ll be making a trip to my local paint store!

[@Vermillionns]

I would definitely add a cutting board to the list. Sure a simple table does the job, but I don't want to damage the one I have since I use it for other things. I use my cutting board to fold paper, cut paper, pierce the sewing holes, cut the leather, and pretty much every step where I want to work on my book on a clean surface. I even glue things on top of my cutting board so I can move the whole work by moving my board without manipulating the book directly and risking screwing up the glueing. It's also a flat surface so when I need to press something I can put it on the board, add a second flat board above it, and then add a lot of weights (I do not own a bookbinding press)

[@bjsackett]

My thoughts exactly

[@destructionindustries1987]

Good idea, i have a few cutting boards just for art stuff.

[@arcanlia]

From someone who is starting with crafting aswell, I really want to thank you for sharing your knowledge. Bookbinding is such an art that needs to be discovered by more artisans around the world. Thanks for creating this series and for keeping bookbinding in the radar!!

[@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536]

We agree with you. It is a art to all.

[@arcanlia]

@@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536 Indeed it is pal. Have a great weekend c:

[@lightbulbnirvana]

Love the deserted island footage. LOL Can't wait to learn more about bookbinding!

[@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536]

Yes. You can.

[@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536]

Bookbinding is wonderful.

[@mattiaferraboli5715]

Beautiful video, i like the handmade "bone folder" idea! Can't wait for the next one! Lovely cat by the way!

[@SueGotCreative.]

So easy to listen to that I just know I'm going to watch the rest of the series. Thanks for providing creative DIY ideas for making our own tools. It's encouraging that I already have most of these items, since I use them in leathercraft.

[@MuhammadAbdullah-rm2bs]

God bless you ! I love you so much. I just started bookbinding and your videos are so clear and easy to understand. I love u BOSS

[@55Quirll]

Thanks for the options that you have shown and how to make them if you are on a budget, I was thinking of buying my kit from Amazon but making most of them will give me a better appreciation of the end product. I am looking forward to the other chapters. Again Thank you for them.

[@XyerDark]

Very basic sewing kits sometimes come with thimbles, which aside from their intended use could also be used to push the needle in the cork. Something else that could be useful is simply something heavy to keep things flat, but I imagine that will be covered in the next video.

[@JeannieTowe-wl5go]

What a breathe of fresh air. Thank you for this informative tutorial , in which you didnt spend the majority talking about your cats digestive issues. Subscribed!

[@ACIDVENOM2501]

There is even a cute cat in the tutorial, what a perfect video ! 😻 Thanks a lot for sharing your very valuable experience !

[@mags8014]

Thank you for such a clear explanation of basic tools - and that skilled making of the wooden bone folder. Everything you do is satisfying to watch!

[@drpicklephd]

extremely informative, thank you! i've hit a wall with finding the "ideal" journal for me, and think i'm gonna have to resort to book binding. i will most definitely be saving your playlist to refer back to as i learn!

[@JmsDagon4283]

Thanks to you i am now binding my own book. This series was so helpful.

[@lollyhamilton1710]

It's like you read my mind about what I would like to see next. I think this will be an amazing series, thank you for taking the time to make it and for sharing your skill.

[@patriciasellers4779]

Because I am a paper crafter I have most of the tools you have shown with the addition of needles and waxed thread. I have problems cutting away the excess paper evenly. I am new to book binding but get in a knot so to speak actually sewing the pages together. Thank you for this excellent informative video I look forward to watching your next one.

[@galerubio112]

You can use a small file (but not for nails because sometimes the color bleeds through).

[@stephenwells2464]

Just found your channel and thought it was so cool but I couldn’t try it because of all the tools I’d need. Based on this, all I need to buy is a bottle of wine! (For drinking, I already have an awl)

[@nicolewalters4912]

This was the most relaxing craft tutorial I’ve ever seen! following this series because I’ve been wanting to get into book binding :)

[@ScaryMeadow]

I'll be honest, I've never had a desire to get into bookbinding personally, even though you make it look really easy and enjoyable in your videos. -- *And yet* I watched this video from start to finish, because it just tickles the right part in my brain and lowers my blood pressure. As always, expertly put together. I absolutely adore your attention to detail, like exactly what to look for in a good utility knife - something anyone can make use of no matter if they bind books or not.

[@RealLatinGeek]

such a flex to make a quick video about basic tools and, from a hardware store paint stirrer, put together a beautiful folder that could easily go on Etsy. Great stuff.

[@hantieferreira4398]

Thank you very much Dennis. Watching you work is very therapeutic. I actually fixed the spine of my work diary thanks to you and your videos.

[@dwaynetube]

Great start of a series and I am looking very forward about the next episodes!

[@hlegler]

Your intro made me sooooo happy!!!! I love the beauty of craftsman's tools, but I also love a good simple hack. Thank you for bringing beauty AND accessibility to this space. Looking forward to making some lovely sketchbooks for friends and family.

[@microstrader]

Thank You! Love Love Love. Well done video! You are a natural. Future Topics... 1) What tools would you buy NEW vs USED? For example, an older used cast iron nipping press is probably preferred over a NEW one, while something else you should buy brand new. Your insight would be valuable. Luckily I have some nice "leather crafting" tools to help get this newly discovered passion ignited. Example: Talas wants $100 for a cobbler hammer while you can get a "collector quality" one, vintage Sears and Roebuck, for less than $30 delivered. 2) If one was willing to invest in a few QUALITY tools, "which ones" and "in what order" would you invest the money. As we know, NICE tools can "dramatically increase" the pleasure of any craft - it is true in photography, oil painting, wood working, ... Quality tools also decrease the "frustration level" for certain tasks. What ORDER would you buy those nice tools that makes the craft more enjoyable? For example: Would buying a nice finishing press from a fine woodworker from UK be a great first "big dollar" tool to buy or a skiving knife from a blacksmith hand-forged in a small town from Ukraine or would it be something else? The art of building your QUALITY tool collection. :) Tip: Sand the logo off the marker. Works like a charm. Cheap Awl: Ice pick from dollar store. Check out the "dissecting needles" on ebay. P.S. Your tools are super sharp. I'd love to discover HOW you sharpen your tools, as a future video.

[@Lorddanielrushton371]

This is the perfect video series. Thank you Dennis.

[@slauek]

WOW. amazing job!

[@catherinegeil1011]

Your videos are the best! Thank you for all the practical workarounds too if specific tools aren't on hand. Your tutorials are fun and down to earth. Thanks for sharing your skill with others!

[@gymnosophist7471]

Thanks Denis! Looking forward to the next ones so I can get started!

[@literallyjane]

This video is everything I've ever wished for. Thank you so much!!!

[@3Artive]

Since you all are watching a bookbinding tutorial, may I also suggest reading the Bibliophile Mystery series by Kate Carlisle? The audio version of these books, narrated by Susie Berneis is also a very pleasant way to devour her works. Also, Dennis, FANTASTIC tutorial series!!! Thank you for your clear, descriptive, and demonstrated instructions. And thank you for the helpful hints you provided about each of the tools! 👏

[@PaulBillecocq]

Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge ! Really looking forward to Chapter 2 !

[@geniceH]

I have just written my first book and I plan to self publish. I also plan to print it and put it together and bind it. Thank you for your teaching,

[@JCAM-z9r]

I have to add: So THAT’S what that slot at the end of my utility knife is for!! I was staring at it a few days ago straining my brain to figure it out and shrugging my shoulders gave up. THANK YOU!

[@JANeway1723]

Excellent, informative and concise. Bravo!

[@ronlittle6448]

What a veritable joy it is to watch, to listen and to learn from you, Dennis! And, you are so articulate! No “uhs,” no “ums.” Clarity abounds! Thank you so much for these inspiring videos! By the way, I’ve found that the back of a spoon can function as a folder. I wish you the very best!

[@carolinelabbott2451]

I was using a corkboard tack to pierce my signatures. I only recently decided to get myself a carpenters awl. I have been using and old mousemat to place under my paper to protect my table. I was thinking of making myself a DIY cradle first but I decided an awl was the better first choice. 😊

[@3Artive]

Mousepad!!! Yes! Why didn’t I think of that!? 🙄 Thank you! 🙏

[@carolinelabbott2451]

@@3Artive No worries. It's one of the many reasons I come and watch these videos, and read the comments. Some one will always have thought of something that I hadn't. It's great. 😊

[@PanyaGamingYT]

Here’s how to make an awl. If you don’t have a cork Supplies: 1)needle ( a long one ) 2)tape 3)paper 4)decorative paper (optional) Steps: 1)Take the paper and fold it around the needle and tape it from the centre 2)make the top secure by the tape 3)make the bottom secure by taping it Optional step:glue or tape the decorative paper onto the awl CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE MADE AN AWL!!!!!!!!!🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@fepatton]

Looking forward to the rest of this series!

[@KathleenRenninger]

Thanks for offering less-expensive alternatives. Just getting started, and don't want to invest too much. Great video!

[@HoodParallel]

I'm looking forward to the next video about making this little notebook! :D

[@KathleenRenninger]

Love the feline observer at the end! 😊

[@raspberyldesign]

This is the first video of tours that ive seen and it made me watch 10 more videos. I loved your content. Looking forward for the 2nd chapter ❤

[@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536]

❤

[@jacobgordon5676]

Thank you so much for this I have been watching your videos for a while and you have inspired me to bind my first book

[@CalebMitchell-k6m]

This is the perfect video series. Thank you Dennis.

[@HanadiH]

For a long time I didn’t start book binding because of the elebaorate tools used Thank you!!

[@strawberryweb]

Your videos are amazing, so happy to have found you in the beginning of my bookbinding journey! Thanks for all of your hard work and knowledge.

[@Death2Compromise]

This is exactly what I've been looking for! I'll enjoy watching the rest of these.👍

[@flz8869]

Can you please show us exactly how you bind a more “complex” book against linnen ribbon (thick cord) like the medieval book and all the knots that go with it and where to make the knots front or back ?

[@Beschaulichkeit]

Thanks for this. I look forward to the next episodes!

[@bethharriman5750]

Hope you keep going with this series! I’ve subscribed!

[@tinahuestis6931]

Thank you for this wonderful information!

[@PrayEveryDay]

Thank you! I'm going to try this out and if I have success, a coffee is coming your way!

[@Pine-m6h]

While the needle and cork awl looks very effective, I found that gluing a thumbtack to the flat end of a pencil provides a more stable alternative. I also prefer the longer "handle". Wonderful video. Very concise and clear.

[@wotsisnameOnline]

Yes! I've been hoping you'd do a little beginner series. I'd love to dabble in book binding and your work is top notch, both in quality and inspiration. Thank you, can't wait.

[@nateharlock]

This channel is going to propel me into becoming a better binder!! Cheers!!

[@JamethielKnorth]

Thank you so much for sharing.

[@catzkeet4860]

Only thing I'd add is a thimble or pliers for pushing thru stubborn materials. Some folks can't be having with them tho, which is cool but I find one handy to have around

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Great suggestion! Personally I've never found a thimble that fits my fingers, but I can see the use of one. Usually I'll use my folder to push a stubborn needle instead.

[@daveturnbull7221]

Another option is to make a leather thimble from some scraps. I'm planning on having a go at wet moulding one later.

[@stexrem]

Thanks!

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Welcome!

[@destructionindustries1987]

This is fascinating! I have a bunch of art supplies and scraps, so I'll give this a try.

[@themusiclover-v4m]

I’m trying to learn how to bind a book and by far your channel is everything I need! Great video, very informative (everything I need to know about bookbinding) and I love the humor too! ❤

[@Pestilence476]

I need this in my life

[@steevemartial4084]

Thank you for this series

[@Reichsadler-Germania]

I recently found this channel by accident and am absolutely mesmerized by what I see here! Everything is wonderfully explained and shown exactly, for which I am very grateful! I have also found that watching the videos calms me down incredibly without getting tired. It's almost like ASMR! Thank you very much for these videos! I'm looking forward to the other films! Best regards from Germany!

[@emmahayes111]

I’ve been doing basic book binding for a while. You have so many great tips thanks for making these.

[@AmberFrmThVaultGaming]

This is such a great video! Thank you so much! I'm working on binding some greeting cards from a lifetime of collecting them and was following a written tutorial but this has made a huge difference! You're amazing, Dennis! ♥

[@tomphilips-p9g]

Thank you!!!!! I have been wanting to try out bookbinding for a while now and have seen some of your other amazing videos. I actually made a couple of extremely simple and crude notebooks but this new series looks like exactly what I need to actually get started for real. I am looking forward to the rest of the series!

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Glad it was helpful!

[@owais146]

SPLENDID MAESTRO THANKS FOR THE INSTRUCTION APPRECIATED

[@cstz]

I've wanted to try bookbinding for ages, and I'm pretty sure this is the push I needed. I love your videos, your instructions and style are easy to follow and appealing. Count me in, and thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!

[@Scrittlescrattle]

Thank you so much for a great rundown of tools I need and diy instructions I can do at home that don’t involve a 400$ highly specific machine absolutely wonderful video thanks again

[@jenniferorchard8162]

This is fantastic Dennis! Thank you very much 😊

[@2rueblue]

Outstanding show and a brilliant idea thank you so much for this

[@teacheme]

I recently bought a pair of bone folders from Temu for £1.29 (UK) now reduced to 89p. A leather kit with 29 assorted bits and pieces including needles and awls cost £4.94. All are good quality and superb value for money and are so cheap it's not worth making your own tools. With a couple of extra tools I'm all set up for leather work and from watching you work over the years, bookbinding. All I need to find is a cheap source of leather and paper stock. Looks like your series will be one I'll be following avidly.

[@AdolphusOfBlood]

I use Saddler's Harness Needles, in sizes 0/1 & 004. They are for all intents the exact same as rounded off needles made for book binding, but cheeper from what I've seen. Personally I use gov't 3 cord and gov't 8 cord is what the 0/1 size is for.

[@Polit_Burro]

I did my bachelor thesis in history on the rituals and practices of the printing trades and how these helped shape the culture of print-workers. One thing I learned about was initiatory practices - mostly in the printing and composition workers, but one interesting ritual of the bookbinders called "kissing the bookbinder's daughter" always stuck with me. This involved submersing the newly fledged journeyman bookbinder into a vat or box of paper trimmings after slathering them with glue - this would create a faux 'beard' of wood/paper shavings. I probably missed something in the translation though.

[@HansWeberHimself]

I have 2 bonefolders that I bought. Never occurred to me to make wooden folders but it’s a great idea. It should be fun to experiment with different shapes for the business end.

[@Katerina-vm2ok]

All I want to do is to be able to make myself my own sketchbooks…in coming across your channel I believe that I have found the information I need…but oh, it makes me want to take up bookbinding as a hobby but I have too many hobbies as is 😂. I’m looking forward to seeing more of these videos. Thank-you for your clear instructions and for making these videos. 64 and still learning… 😊

[@LithNeo]

I would only do this to make something remotely close to what you did with the DnD books because that is a beautiful piece. Thank you for making a basic 101 tutorial.

[@colorbugoriginals4457]

this is so perfect, thank you so much. subbed ❤

[@carimbo8604]

What a brilliant and very interesting art! Congrats!!!

[@robbabcock_]

Thanks for an awesome beginner video! I can't wait to learn more, this is terrific.🧙🔥🙌

[@robinatkins5332]

Weights! Lead divers' weights, covered in woven fiber, are cheap, small and HEAVY! Couldn't make books without 'em! Nice intro to tools and DIY ideas, Dennis... thanks! But what I really want is to find is a paper slicing tool like the one you use to slice the folds when preparing papers for signatures.

[@UlrichVIII]

great video! many thanks!

[@HenrySmit-k1l]

Cara, você é incrível, não dê bola para os comentários negativos, continue...

[@IsabellaVisser-ti6wq]

I'm looking forward to the next video about making this little notebook! :D

[@cipherfresh]

Fantastic video! You condense a lot of intimidating-sounding stuff into something really easy to understand.

[@SkateTroe]

Just discovered book binding, and found this guide. Really looking forward to the next parts!! Thank you for such a solid resource! ^.^

[@calvb8349]

Fantastic video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge Dennis, much appreciated. 🙂

[@TheMimzez]

I've watched your videos before but for some reason I haven't subscribed yet. just fixed that problem and subscribed 👍

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Awesome, thank you!

[@JackFright]

Thank you! I’ve been hoping you’d do this.

[@principe.borodin]

Fantastic tips.

[@arkhamknight1853]

Awesome video! I’ve always wanted to get into this hobby but it’s always seemed very intimidating.

[@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536]

I think the same. Must gave secrets too.

[@hansthebeast9740]

I have an old copy of Frankenstein with art by Bernie Wrightesen art that is falling apart. I may attempt to rebind it someday with your videos as a guide.