Rebinding DUNE - FINALE - Transforming A Vintage Book: Leather Endbands, Tooling & the Final Reveal!

Hi everyone!
This is the final installment of my Dune rebinding project, and I've pulled out all the stops to really make this book something special! I'll be upgrading the plain endbands I wove in Part 2 with German braided leather endbands, which are in keeping with my original vision of mixing a variety of historic bookbinding styles into this binding. I then take on the challenge of hand-tooling the leather on all five panels of the wrap-around cover, incorporating some seriously Dune-inspired elements, and then embellish it with some genuine 24-carat gold leaf. And that conspicuous blank circle on the front flap? Well, that will be getting it's own special treatment with a hand-crafted medallion, so be sure to watch until the end!
This is a project I've wanted to tackle for a long time, and it has proven to be both demanding and deeply rewarding. I have really been able to hone my skills, and I've learned a whole host of new ones as well, and I'm delighted that so many of you have been there with me through the whole thing. Thank you all for your likes, comments, and direct support!
I will be back with more tips, tutorials, and feature projects, so consider subscribing to not miss out.
Until next time, cheers!
Dennis
_______
If you'd like to support me directly:
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If you want to see how all this got started:
Part 1: • Rebinding DUNE - Part ...
Part 2: • Rebinding DUNE - Part ...
Part 3: • Rebinding DUNE - Part ...
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[@MyFuNeRaL400]

Must feel nice to know you have the single best copy of Dune ever created

[@Pizzpott]

That is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen in my 64 years. You sir, are a true artisan and this creation is a work of both genius and art.

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Wow, thank you!

[@MiloradAntifon]

"...this creation is a work of both genius and art." I would add "and love"

[@chrismeandyou]

@@FourKeysBookArts great leather art

[@iamconsomateur3832]

Dose it

[@Pizzpott]

@@MiloradAntifon Agreed 👍

[@CannedMan]

I believe I can speak for everyone when I say that your humbleness in thanking us for having had the privilege to enjoy this wonderful series, only demonstrates what a true gentleman you are. You have created an irreplaceable heirloom, a true masterpiece. I bow my head in respect and admiration.

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thank you, it's been my absolute pleasure.

[@greatdanelady6956]

Hear Hear! Well said. I could not agree more. 🙏❤❤❤

[@timdwyer]

Calling this "Deluxe" somehow falls short. Such a glorious piece of art. Thank you for sharing your journey so that many more folks can appreciate the finished masterpiece as well as the whole process involved. It will last centuries.

[@anthonyparkinson4517]

Bookbinder, Engraver, Filmmaker, Voiceover Actor - ARTIST!

[@stellviahohenheim]

And all that my grandpa ever did is cheat on my grandma and abandon his kids.

[@nightfan1983]

I can't even begin to tell you how absolutely gorgeous this book turned out. Thank you for sharing the process and the final result with us. ❤

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@tchilds1077]

I found this channel by clicking on the marbled paper. Little did I know that it would lead to this wonderful series of how you created the binding and cover for this book. I have none of these skills but this has been absolutely wonderful to watch. Thank you so much for sharing - you are a true artisan sir.

[@Taffoman]

Same. Me and wife saw the marbled paper video, and ended up watching the whole two hours of this guy making the most beautiful book binds for dune I've ever seen!

[@Nikforallthesereasons]

Same, and you have expressed my thoughts better than I could. 🙏

[@janeklegat1698]

Same

[@jimp7042]

Incredible!!!

[@piemasta93]

Cant believe i just binged the equivalent of a full length movie of a book rebinding but it was so much more than that. i got to experience the creation of incredible art from beginning to end. what incredible craftsmanship. what a beautiful piece. thank you sir for this amazing piece of work.

[@anushkaash5839]

At first, I was amazed by your ability to repair paper and bind it so beautifully. However, watching you complete the entire process so intricately and wonderfully is a treat in itself. You are such a source of motivation

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thank you so much 😊

[@thesoapycoyote]

I don't normally comment on KZbin vids, but I gotta say, seeing my all time favorite book being given love and attention by professional hands makes my heart feel good. This was a labor of love, no doubt. Congratulations on your hard work, and for sharing the process with us bookworms.

[@FourKeysBookArts]

It truly was a passion project for me, so glad you enjoyed it!

[@Pyracyntrix]

Heh, bookworms

[@thesoapycoyote]

@@Pyracyntrix 😏

[@MatthewSemones]

I just binge watched all 4 episodes... I now have a much greater appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry of your trade. I will never look at another book quite the same. This experience has forever altered my perception of not only books but every object of quality that exhibit this level of detail. Thank you so much for documenting this journey and sharing it with the world. Forever a subscriber and look forward to the next project.

[@collinbeal]

You turned a $12 book into one that I would challenge ANYBODY to price lower than $4,000, but really, it's priceless!! Bravissimo!

[@Nanakinsz]

If there was an award for KZbin Video series .... these should be at the top of the nominations. I've loved watching them all. Your skill and artistry in both the book and the video have been nothing short of incredible! The final book .... not only makes me want to read Dune again, but touches my heart. Thank you!

[@yobgodababua1862]

"Bless the Maker and His water. Bless the coming and going of Him. May His passage cleanse the world. May He keep the world for His people." Absolutely stunning work. That is one lucky old book to be reborn this way.

[@lilangel97712]

Is that what the runes spell out? I could find what he was referencing to, to find out.

[@yobgodababua1862]

@@lilangel97712 It's not (I think). This is his reference to the badge on the cover covering the world. The runes he engraved (beautifully!) are (I think from his comments) the Bene Gesserit "Litany Against Fear" "I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain."

[@yobgodababua1862]

At least if I understood him correctly... I can't read the "new" runes. :)

[@simoneandersson5978]

As it was written

[@fujicakes_]

As a fellow artist who has been following with this series since its inception, I’m at a loss for words. This is one of the best things I’ve ever seen, and your craftsmanship is commendable. Props to you, Mr. Dennis.

[@MagiRaz]

I believe Mr. Herbert would be well pleased to know he created a work that would inspire such love and dedication from a fan.

[@honeybee8194]

This is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever seen! I hope it will be cherished as the masterpiece that it is for generations to come.

[@mitcheld123]

No notes, absolute perfection. I think Frank Herbert would have been blown away if he was able to see this, and be happy with how much love Dune has received.

[@Nikforallthesereasons]

You sure have given the term "popped down to the shop", a whole new meaning.

[@Fah_FS]

There are no words to describe your hard and impeccable work! Creating a relic of such talent and dedication is definitely a worthy tribute to the work of Dune and also a delight to all fans of this universe! Being alive to be able to appreciate such talented people is an honor and I am eternally grateful! Congratulations on your work! 💎

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thank you so much!

[@Fah_FS]

@@FourKeysBookArts ❤️❤️❤️

[@toddtaylor4649]

Tears. Absolute heirloom. As a reader who yearly travels to Arrakis...i am....no words. Thank you Denise. To know this Art is in the world is a joy.

[@novemberaddams2779]

I can just imagine this book going into an auction many many, years in the future. Masterful work.

[@tinywii_e6581]

Imagine being so amazing to the point of doing ALL of this from scratch. Wonderful. This is art. The Dune movies are by far my favorite sci-fi, and I LOVED this cover. Congratulations, what perfection.

[@petermaltzoff1684]

Writing the litany against fear freehand on leather... Truly an amazing tribute.

[@PendragonDaGreat]

I could see this showing up in a rare books room with a list price of 5 figures (USD) and would think "that is totally and completely fair" That is so well done.

[@nsArmoredFrog]

I wholeheartedly vote that whatever copy of Dune is in the Library of Congress be replaced with this work of art. Incredible work!

[@peterespada6226]

Unfortunately, Dennis is Canadian. I doubt that LOC would recognize this achievement.

[@paulfeist]

I'm a tinkerer. A gunsmith. A blacksmith (before I blew out my shoulder). A knifemaker (not a good one). A little work with blobs of glass. I've made jewelry, I've even rebound a couple books... So when I say that seeing that finished project come together literally brought a tear to my eye, and it's one of the most beautiful objects I've ever seen.... take it to heart.

[@samm5111]

This man is why the word "artisan" exists. This isn't just amazing craftsmanship, to say that would be an insult, no this is art pure and simple.

[@Loreboar0]

I found myself giggling with Dune nerd glee when you revealed what parts would go in the circle on the cover. This book is one of my favorite fan creations for anything. You are such an inspiring artist!

[@Redbeardblondie]

I’ve never seen a book given such perfectly fitting, appropriately styled and grandiose clothing. This is an epic work truly worthy of the book.

[@MargaretGeorgemgse]

The dark relief round the sandworm is particularly stunning. And the way the patterns match across the inside covers! And the brutal effect of the contrasting intricate braids is SO Dune.

[@BluuBird2]

I just finished reading Dune for the first time and as a result KZbin has been recommending me all kinds of Dune-related content - most of which I have been enjoying a lot. But I can say with certainty, that this series has been the most awe-inspiring and utterly captivating of them. I think I can give no better compliment to your phenomenal work than saying that you did Herbert's book justice. You made the book itself part of the story which it tells, and you did so in a thought- and tasteful way. Thank you so much for sharing the details of the process with us and creating something truly beautiful.

[@teapoweredyugi]

My jaw dropped when the gold leaf came up but I was actually astonished when the map of the North Polar Region came up.

[@abarn9541]

I know! I was thinking a medallion, but the map with the sandworm is just absolutely perfect! Really makes me want to get a copy to read myself - I tried when I was younger, but just couldn't get into it. I think I'll try again!

[@teapoweredyugi]

@@abarn9541 Go for it! But it is a bit of a slog, especially if you're used to books with fast paced action sequences.

[@RissaFirecat]

@@teapoweredyugiit was worth every minute of reading. The book may have been long, but it was worth it. Not a bit of a slog. Jeez.

[@teapoweredyugi]

@@RissaFirecat It's been a long time since I read it so my memory may have been altered by time. Apologies.

[@Skittlesskids]

teen artist here 👋 I can’t even begin to describe my feelings towards this incredible work of art. You did a fantastic job. Wow 👏👏 this project must have been so nerve racking and daunting, even if I had the skill I’d be so scared to ruin it.. but you indeed made a work of beauty. It’s amazing to see talented artists like you show your progress and work 👏❤️

[@scotttipton1000]

Fell across this whilst idly scrolling. There is a small bird that has laid eggs in a nest it built in my open mouth as I watched agog. I love it when I watch something that I have no knowledge of educate me unwittingly. Thank you, I loved watching your patience.

[@revdpoling]

You know that feeling when you've been watching a TV series for years and it finally comes to an end and you are both happy and sad? That is how I find myself feeling after watching the last part of this series. It is such a wonderful book now that it is done, but i am already missing the excitement of waiting for the next installment.

[@lilpixie25]

Wow... This is a work of art. The attention to detail is mindboggling, and makes for a gorgeous end result. I can't imagine how satisfying it would be to have something like this in a reading room, to open it up like a treasure box and lose yourself into that world. This is fantastic, you are amazing!

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thank you very much!

[@anthonyparkinson4517]

The agony of waiting will soon be over!

[@dresdenwarlock7978]

That is without a doubt one of the greatest things someone from this planet has ever crafted. Glorious.

[@ScarletShade13]

I am late to the party but I just have to say that this binding turned out so, so beautiful! From the marbled paper to the incredible engraving you did on the leather. It's such a joy to watch you work on this project. Thank you for sharing it with us :)

[@FelixTheNoodle]

This book is gonna smell so fucking good.

[@LdHrothgar]

That is STUNNING, seriously. ANYONE would be proud to have that book in their library. I'm super jealous.

[@auntof6]

I've watched this series several times now. It was fascinating to see all the steps that went into creating such a special object. And besides the book itself, you did an excellent job editing the videos. Every time I thought I'd like to see a close-up of something, like pages getting compressed in a press, there it was. Every time I thought I'd seen enough of something in real-time speed, you switched to time-lapse. You were creative in framing some shots, such as one particular long, low shot of you working on something in the background with something else in the foreground. This made the series enjoyable on more than one level.

[@timwarren7403]

What an amazing journey with a beautiful piece of artwork as the end product. It was a pleasure to join you through the episodes, thank you.

[@boigeorge1149]

Ah, dang it! I got so excited to see the video that I clicked without seeing the "upcoming" sign lol

[@scottnj2503]

I read Dune for the first time 45 years ago. Fell in love with the characters and story. I discovered the art and mastery of book binding a couple months ago when I happened across the first part of this series. In and of themselves, the binding and embellishing processes are fascinating enough to capture my appreciation. Your skill and love are exhibited in this magnificent work...they combine to become a thing of beauty and wonder greater than the sum of it's parts. Thank you for sharing.

[@verone272]

My heart was pounding watching you put the marbled paper at the end 😂 Just amazing

[@jadynjc]

While the end result of the book is incredible and is deserving of all the praise that it’s getting (and more) I just would like to shout out the cinematography and editing. It’s phenomenally well done, and shows the process so well. It’s always very clear what’s being done, and why, and it always looks pretty. Thanks for recording and sharing this!

[@Whatevah-]

I audibly GASPED when I saw this announcement! Rewatching 1-3 now to pre-game for the FINALE!!!

[@jomolhari]

This has been better than the Dune movies themselves. Legendary craftsmanship.

[@TobinBelisle]

Absolutley STUNNING! I am in awe. Bravo!!! The sheer artistry here and attention to detail... Sir, take a bow. You are, simply put, an Amazing craftsman and artist. Thank you!

[@angie_j]

This is absolutely gorgeous. This series was the first I saw of bookbinding in my life, and it was such an amazing introduction and the result is wonderful display of mastery of ones craft. Went back and watched the rest of your videos, it is absolutely fascinating. Thank you for introducing me to world of art I didn't know existed.

[@derrickcox6299]

This book needs to go to a collectors auction. I could not imagine what someone would pay for your work and intricate craftsmanship.

[@moealsharif13]

Not everything in life is about money! Why would you think he’d want to get rid of it more than the next guy who wants to spend a fortune on it? This attitude of yours is why you’ll never make anything worth selling!

[@IllustratedManOfficial]

Can’t believe the videos I’ve watched of you creating this masterpiece. A rather inexpensive 4th-5th printing is now priceless. Congratulations and I love your channel.

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thanks so much 😊

[@athenarobbins2515]

Hello Dennis! Your unbelievable vision, skills, and patience is truly AMAZING! Super fantastic craftsmanship friend! Just WOW!!! You are inspiring me to challenge myself with something as beautiful! Thank you for INSPIRING and SHARING your journey. It is truly appreciated more than you'll ever imagine!💝

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thank you very much!

[@andreweckford6319]

The whole thing has been amazing. But to see the masterclass in jewellery making casually drop in near the end is over the top. That insert alone would be award winning.

[@edskodevries]

A stunning conclusion to a fantastic series . Thank you for giving us the opportunity to join you on this journey, it has been epic!

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@yumicat1]

This is the perfect middle between technical skill and artistic expression. What an honor to have your process and work shared with us, thank you for making this book ours as well, in a way.

[@jackygrush]

This is absolutely gorgeous and having the litany against fear on the cover is the Cherry on top

I've been following your channel for a while now and I must say 1) Your video editing and storytelling skills have improved significantly in a pretty short period of time 2) This could be your most beautiful project so far. Simply amazing. Please, please keep doing what you do here. A lot of book lovers like myself will follow you everywhere you go. Greetings from Spain.

[@IgorTerroso]

The care given to make it relatable to the story. The craftsmanship and patience... And the willingness to share with the World. Thank you so much! I showed the videos to my kids so they learn the value of a handmade unique work.

[@joesmith3829]

That freehand script on leather, only one word to describe 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯!!

[@Carl_DenTandt]

I am flabbergasted with astonishment as to the beauty of this book you have completed! Truly amazing! I’ve been watching your channel for a while now and every project you do is astonishing to me. Keep these great creations coming Dennis!

[@danyg4063]

This is most certainly the most beautiful book I've ever seen. What i would give for this masterpiece to grace my bookshelf, if only for the briefest of moments. Well done, sir.

[@Joe___R]

You turned one hell of a good read into an incredible book. You should write in the book letting future generations know who made that incredible book and when you did it.

[@grandogrigo]

Have no words to describe how I amazed by this piece of art! Thanks a lot for sharing this beauty with us!

[@jcortese3300]

Just breathtaking. And coming from someone who isn't a fan of the book, that's saying something. This is absolutely transfixing.

[@janet.snakehole]

this is why i have been watching book binding videos i want to bind my Dune paperback

[@abarn9541]

I'd love to do something like this to my Swiss Family Robinson book, I however have a fiber craftset - Spinning, weaving, knitting, sewing.... but leatherwork is out of my reach.

[@hurgcat]

Amazing work. Blessed be the maker. Blessed be the coming and goings of Him.

[@trentmhuber]

A series of videos debatably as well crafted as the book itself. Truly one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen on the internet.

[@vlogfloopers]

It was my great privilege to witness you through the whole journey of creating this inexplicably intricate and beautiful work. Thank you so much for sharing. It was an unforgettable experience

[@DenisovichDev]

I agree with us!

[@morethanaveragejoe8224]

Bro, your book binding craftsmanship and designs are next level...really impressive. I have no doubt Frank Herbert would have been touched greatly by your work.

[@FourKeysBookArts]

I appreciate that!

[@fredericjaquet3729]

Dear Dennis, I did not want to watch this video "day one" because I was too tired and knew I would not enjoy it as much as I would have if I waited. And I'm glad I waited four days. What you have shown us in this series of videos is not a tremendous amount of work and skill... no... it is more than that : it is pure magic. Thank you Sir for bringing beauty in this world.

[@ryno101]

The artistry, skill, patience and storytelling in these videos is beyond anything I’ve seen… you popped up on my feed, and I sat spellbound for two straight hours as I watched through the entire series. Unbelievable work!

[@Little-Dude]

This is beyond astounding. It's by-far the best custom rebinding I've ever seen. It's absolutely gorgeous and I was just stunned watching this the entire way through.

[@SchriyJ]

I'm 19, and am a screenwriting student at USC, but after seeing just how beautiful some of these books turn out after being rebound, I honestly want to give this sort of thing a shot at some point! Thanks for the inspiration, as always, Denis!

[@Gruzbee]

I very nearly welled up with tears at the reveal of the centerpiece when you placed the Shai-Hulud over the map. Such an amazing binding; all the work and effort you've put in this, absolutely shows. I will now spend the rest of my days, envious, bitter, and covetous... thanks for this.

[@noobtube1352]

I don't usually comment on videos but THIS...!!!!! The artistry, the attention to detail, the VIBES!! I loved watching this process, and I'm so impressed with the skill. It's inspired me to follow the other videos on binding small notebooks :)

[@severianthefool7233]

KZbin is full of awesome creations, but this is awe-some in the true sense of the word. I’m dumbstruck by the sheer beauty of what you’ve created, and the unbelievable amount of time and effort you put into it. Goddamn.. people are incredible.

[@TSS161]

awww the finale, all good things must come to an end. what a wonderful and beautiful series

[@robertlassiter907]

I personally think that the amount of gold leaf was just right. Very tasteful so as not to overpower the whole cover. I am truly impressed with the design you came up with. Bravo! Well done!

[@coregamestudio]

You created something that will outlast generations of people. Amazing work! I stuck through all 4 video's of this because it was just amazing to see the fine craftsmanship that went into making this.

[@abstractdream001]

I came because of Dune (the first video in the series came up on my algorithm) but stayed because of the asmr of watching an artist practicing his craft. We'll done. Never thought I'd watch 2 hours worth of book binding, but here I am.

[@mikaeluhl]

What an unforgettable journey this was, absolutely 🔥

[@Naheleniel]

It's a glory! Omg... I'm crying my eyeballs out at the magnificence of such a masterpiece! Congratulations, Master Dennis! 🤩

[@maikolverasson1735]

14:15 - now that editing was DELICIOUS. Amazing project. I didn't think the leather work would flash me like it actually did.

[@Uploadingvirus]

my god, this turned out to be an even bigger masterpiece than i could have imagined. incredible work.

[@jaxx1033]

Nothing short of PHENOMENAL!!! Your attention to detail is very admirable as well as your genuine creative ability to make this design truly your own!! You have an unbelievable gift!!! 💯Thank you for taking the time to share with us!! Take care. I am looking forward to your next creation! 🙂

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thank you so much 😀

[@brunostolz2359]

It just gets crazier and more beautiful every minute with all the details. This is art and I am here for it!

[@Minto8384]

Can you ever look at something and just feel the love and time the creator poured into making it? Maybe it's my obsessive rewatching of this series (a wonderfully soothing sleep aid) but I've never seen this more clearly displayed than with this copy of Dune

[@ADadasadasdadw]

Watching this in one go, I can't believe how quickly those two hours went by. The book turned out simply beautiful and astonishing.

[@EVSkecthCode]

The wait for this was more intense than the wait for Dune Part 2

[@FutureAlien]

Sir, I cannot begin to express how much I appreciate this series and the end result. Dune is by far my favourite book and I own several different versions of it, but yours is, simply put, definitive. Every single thing you have made for this project is a work of art by itself, but also they combine into such a unique edition that I cannot help wishing I could simply hold for a bit, let alone read. Thank you for sharing this process!

[@FourKeysBookArts]

Thank you for saying so, I'm so glad you enjoyed the series.

[@madelineantill1417]

Seconded!

[@rjungert]

That was one of the most incredible things I've ever seen-a remarkable process from beginning to end. Thank you for taking me on that journey from an old, inexpensive copy of Dune to a stunning work of art. You are a true craftsman with remarkable vision.

[@emmagrove6491]

Wow. What a work of art and beautiful craftsmanship. I finally read DUNE a few years ago and wasn't that impressed with it, but had I read it in THIS form I'd probably have thought it was the most magnificent book ever.

[@ActualChef]

I can’t believe this. No notes. Pure perfection. Wow.

[@martinnelson7511]

I am a poor man, living on social security. If I were a Rich Man I would give you $10,000 for that book. You see, I consider doing the greatest novel ever written. And I believe you are produced the greatest copy of the greatest novel ever written. But I am a poor man and cannot give you this great prize. But what I can give you is my eternal gratitude for showing the world what a great book can be. My gratitude is not worth a penny, but I wish and I hope that my eternal thanks will compensate you for all the many hours of work until you put into the greatest book ever written in fiction

[@Dee-b5p]

That turned out so beautiful! Such amazing workmanship, but I really have to give you major props for the freehanding of the fremen text.

[@themovementschool8327]

Incredible. One of the best I've ever seen, if not thee best. I watched every part start to finish.

[@joaoalbertodosanjosgomes1536]

Waiting.👍.