SIMPLIFIED Book Block Building

Paper Grain: • Using PAPER as Bookclo...
Book Cover Vids:
• BEGINNER BOOKBINDING P...
• DIY SMALL HARDCOVER BOOK
• Making an EASY Book Cover
• Easy Book Cover with S...
Guillotine Paper Cutter Review: • PAPER CUTTER REVIEW | ...
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0:00 - choosing paper
3:38 - marking sewing holes
6:57 - sewing signatures
15:26 - gluing up
17:28 - trimming, rounding, endpapers
25:06 - adding spine reinforcement

[@madebylora]

I recently watched a video aimed at helping people make better/more engaging KZbin videos and the guy asked ‘can you think of a channel that you’d watch anything they posted, regardless of subject?’ I immediately thought “Nik!”. I already know how to make a text block and even filmed a video of my own, but I still HAVE to watch yours! Love all your videos! I’ve learned so much and been so entertained by you since I found you a couple of years ago. Today I learned more about rounding and backing (which I’ve never tried doing either). Thank you

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Thank you so much, Lora! =)

[@berolinastrassmann]

It is the same for me. I can watch @nikthebookmith do anything, as it is always very interesting.

[@kjmav10135]

I love your videos. I love your voice, your sense of humor, your extremely great instructions, and your masterful finished projects. Seriously. You’re great.

[@Yoda_Bonk]

Thanks, Nik! You are one of the most helpful KZbin presenters!💜

[@helenspedding-lowe5469]

Nik, your video has really helped me to make a reasonable attempt at a text block. Ive watched countless videos on kettle stich, but yours is just the best. It's clear, slow enough for idiots like me to follow, and so clearly explained. Thanks so much! I love you so much, you have an identical sense of the ridiculous as I do. I find myself frequently laughing out loud whilst watching. You're a gem. I too have problems with my hands, I have neuropathy and can't feel the ends of my fingers very well, which makes crafting pretty difficult. The air in my craft room is frequently navy blue, and I have to be careful that the blood from stabbing myself with the needle whilst sewing doesn’t mark the pages!😢 Once again, thanks for the brilliant explanation and demonstration. Sending hugs 🫂 from the UK xxxxxxxxxxx

[@thefallen8143]

I've been wanting to get into book binding for years now, but college and life in general have me in a chokehold 😭. Even so, i do watch you regularly, and enjoy it a lot! I might as well get into book binding, lol. Take care, nik!

[@NorthlightsStudio]

What timing you have! I just finished a 6 day bookbinding course through the Canadian bookbinders and book artists guild. The teacher is a master bookbinder/conservation bookbinder. We learned a lot and I was helping others as I had learned so much through you! I played with all the “toys” in the Carleton University book arts lab. Now I want them all! Finally figured out the weavers knot and made headbands plus lots of other things. I loved every minute! I am now a student member of the guild! 😊 you created a “monster” 😝 a very happy one!

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Wow, I am properly impressed! How fun that must have been! I've always wanted to take a course (or three) at the American Academy of Bookbinding in Telluride. But, I've been reluctant to register. My luck, I'd get sick and not be able to go. Lol

[@NorthlightsStudio]

@@NiktheBooksmith I hear you! I was nervous too! I registered about a week before the course and hubby agreed I will do nothing but to keep as much energy as I could for the course. They also do online ones which are my back up but I really prefer to do in person. Plus the toys!! 😆

[@MichelleB_96]

Why are those fast forwarded bookbinding sounds so satisfying?! It does something happy to my brain 🤷‍♀️ who knows. Thanks for the video, as usual, very clear and easy to understand. I’ve learned a lot from you throughout my bookbinding journey over these past few years. 😊

[@pennythedomelady]

Like cutting your bangs! Perfect analogy!🤣

[@myrnacoubrough4713]

Thank you so muchfor this! Now I know why my signatures were never as tight as they should have been. You are such a good teacher.

[@lindaleib270]

Thank you so much for your great instruction. You show your super ability to teach in every video. Because of you I have attempted and have almost completed a sketchbook REQUESTED by my daughter-in-law! You have made me look talented! All I really am is courageous because of you!! You are the talented one!!

[@NiktheBooksmith]

That warms the cockles of my little, weak heart! Time and time again, I will read a comment from someone afraid to even try. And it makes me think, "but, what if you are the Mozart of bookbinding and you'll never know it!" So, bravo to you!

[@vdc7153]

I love to watch your videos. The other one I totally admire is DAS Bookbinding. Thank you so much

[@deborahclatworthy3885]

I have always loved books…(obsessively)… but since following your videos and making some simple notebooks for myself, I have come to appreciate the true art form of books. That method of sewing is just as beautiful as any embroidery work. It seems a shame to have to cover it up but it makes it even more special because now we know the little secret hidden under the cover. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. Now I want a little mallet! 😊

[@StardustAscending]

You are one of FAVORITE FAVORITE YOU TUBERS !!! I LOVE books. I’m a paper crafter, I live reading and ASTROLOGY! I soooo respect books! I think I was a librarian in a previous life😂😂😂. But now I’m on a mission to “ BIND”( is that correct? ) make hardbacks for all my paperback Astrology books! I’m pretty sure I saw that you have a video on that. Anyway, love you. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@leanneshawler]

Did anyone else go oooooohhhh, when Nik cut the fore edge. That was very satisfying! Also a great tutorial!

[@maggiequilts]

Hi Nik, thank you for this video, it has provided me with all the information I need to make my first book like this! You are so knowledgeable, and I love your humor 😊 Hugs. Maggie ❤️🤗🇨🇦❤️

[@caroltanzi29]

This is the first time I’ve actually seen a book like this put together. Beautifully built. Well done! Carol from California

[@ChantelleArts]

I'd love to make my own sketchbook one day ❤❤

[@eileenpawluk353]

You can't go wrong with Nik as your teacher ... She is ABSOLUTELY MAGNIFICENT ♥️🥰

[@lisam9233]

You can do it!

[@irenemacias7423]

Thank you Nik !!! You are the person I am trying to emulate with the extraordinary talents you possess on making journals and books - I have seen tons of videos , read lots of posts , seen other folks books and journals, even tried Graphic Fairy for a while and you know there are a lot of great book artists out there but none as creative or innovative as you - is that wild !!!!? So I think I’m sticking to painting and drawing until I can be Nic worthy . Ok just wanted to thank you for teaching me so much 💖😊‼️‼️‼️‼️Onward and upword , and thanks for ALWAYS making me laugh 😂, you are unique and authentic- great things to be !!!!!! Rock on 🤘 ‼️‼️‼️‼️💖

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Aww thank you, Irene, that's quite the compliment! :)

[@susanmary4752]

I love the step by step demonstration. Makes it all so much clearer. Now for me to give it a go! Thanks Nik.

[@theresewallentin2856]

So happy that you’re feeling well enough to make a video, and it’s excellent as always. Thank you for all of the explanations, very interesting 😊

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Thank you, Therese! This video was already recorded, I just had to have the energy to edit it. But, I do feel better than I did in October. :)

[@mickansj334]

Nick, You know you are great at showing these things with books. Thousand thanks!

[@sandybroderick2932]

"Like when you're cutting your own bangs..." 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🥰🥰🥰

[@margaretcomella3318]

Great idea about folding the pages together! You ARE the master booksmith!👍😯

[@kayhammock]

Hey Nik. I want to try this method so bad but fear has crept in. You have a way of explaining and showing that makes me like I CAN do it!! I might invest in one of those fancy shmancy trimmers. 😂 ❤

[@seameology]

I made a throwaway book. Made "signatures" out of cereal boxes and practiced sewing. It took me three times to be confident before I tried sewing a book I'd keep. Natasa from Treasure Books does this.

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Hello Kay! Go to the dollar store and get a couple pads of inexpensive sketch paper to practice on :) I have faith in you!

[@jam4441]

Hey Kay, I have started making little note books in the last couple of years after watching Nik's videos. I have found it a very therapeutic process and very satisfying having a notebook to gift to friends and family. If you just give it a go you might surprise yourself . Good luck and best wishes.

[@glittergrandma]

Thanks for the excellent directions and clear video. The illustrations also helped me visualize the sewing process. Many thanks. ❤

[@JannyHaak]

Good to hear your voice again, Nik, hope you are well! ❤ Thank you for always sharing your knowledge, and for being you! ❤

[@joy-joy8675]

That was so interesting, and you explained the process so well. Your humor and patience with the entire process allows the viewer to relax and believe that we too might construct a book. Thank you for helping us believe that we can create too. I am certainly happy you are feeling better. Your openness about your health encourages us as well... that we, too, can be kind to ourselves, recover, and then continue on with the things that are important to us.

[@janetstubbington583]

Nik, your videos are always informative and hugely entertaining. Glad you're feeling a little better.

[@2CraftySeniors]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am going to bookmark this video so I can watch it again and again when I'm actually putting journals together. I learned how to do the simple 3-hole binding, but sometimes it isn't enough for my journals. Sometimes they need more hold. Now I think I can finally get one done this way.

[@annaengberg]

This was such a helpful tutorial! Thank you! (Not going down any of the rabbit holes, though... too complicated for an amateur... 😄) Nice to 'see' you again! I hope you're ok and I'm looking forward to the next video. 😊

[@lindamorgan3069]

Brilliant! So comprehensive and clear, great tutorial. Thank you 👏👏👏

[@jennifermarlowe5336]

Thanks for another awesome and informative video Nik! So much information shown clearly-even with awesome closeups! Really look forward to your next video, as always.

[@carol-annegriffin6234]

I love listening to your videos! Love your style, and I’ve gotten several of your Etsy printables which are so much fun to make. I make solely miniature books and am always looking for ways to improve. Your videos are very helpful!

[@francineh.7825]

I think eavesdropping on a bookbinding prison would be very interesting haha. Great video!

[@NiktheBooksmith]

😄

[@seameology]

Thank you, Nik! I'm glad you gave the variations and history!

[@MsFarmer37]

Is there anything you can't do? Every single thing you show us is perfect. Do you have a pile of mistakes somewhere?? I love your videos, and I really love the true crime videos. thank you! Also, personally, I like the raw, uneven edges on a homemade journal.

[@NiktheBooksmith]

oh yes...there are loads of things I cannot do. LOADS! Lol thanks, MsFarmer =)

[@LedgerAndLace]

Oooh, is that Humbolt end paper and did you design it? With your tutelage, I think I might be (finally!) getting the hang of doing a PROPER text block!

[@NiktheBooksmith]

It's Pepin, you know, the Other obsession 😄 thanks Hali!

[@suebulford]

Thankyou for an easy to follow tutorial, going to try this with my fabric signatures ❤

[@janetvisochi-baum7572]

thank you Nik - this was wonderful to watch and so informative - love your tutorials - be well xx

[@LindaHeeren-cp7gm]

I want to do a junk journal

[@alisavogt2892]

Great video!

[@happymailmagic]

You are AMAZING!!!

[@licechrispies]

This was so helpful, thank you 🎉

[@rosehavenfarm2969]

Thank you, Nik.

[@marionpatz6140]

Tolle Bindung und super erklärt! Danke, Nik!

[@SusanWebster-pz2vg]

Thank you for such a great demo 😍

[@adelerobbetze]

thank you

[@jenniferwatson7118]

Thankyou!

[@helenmobbs4599]

Excellent video as always. Glad you are feeling better. We miss you, take care 😊🌹

[@karma13612]

Awesome helpful Nik! Thank you!!!! ❤️🙋🏼‍♀️👏👍

[@lauradellepoirier8559]

Great tutorial. Thanks for the great instructions.

[@blackcoffeeandwildflowers]

Your videos are so informative and interesting. I guess because you actually keep me engaged, even though I have yet to try this. 😂 But now I really really want to give it a go!! Thanks for your simple instructions, though there is nothing simple about this! Hugs 🤗❤️

[@happiness1988]

Thank you very much! Now i understand what i need to do! 🤓💛

[@lisam9233]

Great job, as always! If anyone is looking for that “next level” of bookbinding instruction that Nick mentioned, I recommend the DAS Bookbinding channel here on KZbin. I learned mostly from Sage Reynolds, who still has a channel here, but rarely makes new videos. His instruction is as stellar as DAS. Cheers!

[@jam4441]

I agree DAS is terrific and now back making videos after his house was in major flood.

[@kevinorr6880]

Very good. Always interesting to see your process and the explanations for “why”.

[@melindareynolds7867]

Very well done instructions for a book binding. Thank you.

[@rosalindfeemster8049]

Love watching your videos. I learned so much from you. Thank you

[@nancynorris9822]

Wow! So interesting! I learned a lot. TFS 🤗

[@maramakesjournals2319]

Info for the algorithm. 💜💜💜

[@cat3crazy]

I am so far away from putting a book together properly😄... I just combined your Herbarium Kit & the Woodland Color Pages into a 32 page, single signature, booklet with a laminated cover . I tried trimming the edges with a craft knife and a ruler. I messed it up so bad that I reprinted all the pages. I've added some ephemera and used an elastic band, attached to the center of the cover, for a closure. It's done. After watching some other creators, I realize that I could have done a few things better, but I have several other projects waiting to be made.❤

[@KYATKAT]

Loved this video... it was so very helpful... have the best rest of your weekend 💗💗

[@shirleyedwards1490]

Hi Nik, do you have a video outlining the basic equipment for a beginner (real beginner) bookbinder - and how to use it? I am so inspired to get started and have some obvious items, but not sure what else to get and where to start

[@Jeannette.akaJnett]

I always love watching you create a book/text block. Phew, glad the bookmaking police won't be coming here. I don't make enough to purchase a tool just to trim them up. New tip for me, love how you tapped it to give it a touch of rounding. Now will that force the pages out of alignment since you trimmed it before hand? Thanks for that new revelation.

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Hi Jnett! The rounding process shouldn't be so forceful as to dislodge the signatures from the binding and glue. But, maybe you are referring to the alignment at the foredge, in which case, the foredge should end up a little concave in shape. I hope that didn't muddy the waters too much!

[@merakitra]

You did all the reading, and we just watched😂😂❤, you demonstrated so well, you are the best! Thank you so much. I would love to see how you would put a cover for this text block. Also a question to ask, how much and how long ago you paid for the edge trimmer?

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Good morning! If I remember correctly, I paid $169 about 3 years ago.

[@berolinastrassmann]

Hey Nik! I thought about you today, as I found a whole series of mystery books where the main character is a bookbinder 😂 How fun is that? They also have very puny names "Murder in Hardcover" 😂"Once upon a Spine" 😊" The Lies that Bind" 😆 The author is Kate Carlisle. Do you know them? Anyway...I will borrow them from the library and check them out. Maybe yhey are young adult books? I thought you might get a kick out of these titles at least. Thanks for the video. I always like watching you explain bookbinding stuff!

[@NiktheBooksmith]

hello! Yes, I've heard of that author, I hope you enjoy reading them!

[@TalkingBoomslang]

I just came across your channel and truly appreciate you sharing your knowledge! Also, has anyone ever told you you sound a lot like Julia Roberts? 😊

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Lol I've not heard that before =D

[@lindapeterson7997]

Great video, I'm learning so much. The devil is in the details indeed. That machine you have for edges was slick. I once tried a power tool in some misfired neuron situation. But, in my defense, it was on a stand, and what could go wrong, right? Against better judgment, I forged ahead, confident in my ingenuity. It wasn't good, I can still hear the snorts of derision from my husband.

[@NiktheBooksmith]

I'm proud of you for trying. We never learn the right way until we've tried the wrong way first!

[@lisahitchcock3389]

You said you used embroidery thread for this video. Is that a legit way to do it? If so, how many threads do you use? I love your videos...I dont comment often cuz i hate typing, but im out here eatching every one of them. I especially love the mystery stories ones!! Keep it up and im glad you are getting better.

[@NiktheBooksmith]

hi Lisa! Yes, I used embroidery thread so that the color would show up in contrast from the white paper. Since the example text block was small in size, I used 2 strands separated from the standard 6-strand thread. Sometimes I will run the thread along a chunk of beeswax so that it slides through the sewing station holes easier. As far as legitimacy, I suppose that depends on your perspective. Typically, waxed linen thread is used for sewing text blocks, but it can be difficult to access, depending on a person's budget or geographical location. Additionally, its my firm belief that lack of conventional supplies should not be seen as a hindrance to learning a skill. Use what you've got to improve a craft and worry about proper supplies later! =) Great question, thanks for asking!

[@CL-kn1rq]

A couple of days ago I watched Adam savage saw, yes saw, the text block to make holes to bind the text block. I'm still having nightmares.

[@thefallen8143]

Dude that sounds traumatising, I'm sorry---

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Good morning! Sawing across the signature folds is a legit method, if you can believe it. I agree that it does seem rather excessive. Lol But, it's Adam Savage, he makes robots and crazy movie props. It's right on track 😄

[@CL-kn1rq]

@@NiktheBooksmith legit or not, I nearly cried. He actually didn't do too badly but I'll never tell him that. Thanks Nik, doesn't help for the nightmares 🤣

[@Steph_here]

Hey Nik! Can you tell us the names/authors of the books you show in the beginning of the video? 😊

[@DanasMakingAMessAgain]

I have an idea for a story time. It is not true crime but I believe a crime of humanity was committed. The case of Mia Kowalski is not publicized enough. I followed the case of Justina Pelletier long ago and she was committed to Boston Children's Hospital Bader 5 unit after her parents were said to be unfit by DCS of Massachusetts. Mia's case is similar in that she also has a rare condition that was not well understood at the time. Her parents also lost custody due to non medical personnel and her Mother paid the ultimate price. It is an interesting story and would get more exposure if you were to retell it in your classically eloquent fashion. It is tragic. Mia's family won a lawsuit in 2023, but lost a valuable life. I hope the world learns from this Mother's ultimate sacrifice.

[@TanBraeDesigns]

What is the trimmer you use for the book edges? I don't see it in your Amazon list.

[@murielzelateur1708]

Love your vidéos ❤ i am not sure if the référence of the professionnel cutter you use. I seems to be électronique and there all seems manual on your amazon liste. Could you hiver me the ref. Or link if you font mind. Thks 😊

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Good day! The cutter is not electronic, it has a long lever that you pull down to cut the paper stack. =)

[@murielzelateur1708]

@NiktheBooksmith ok😀. funny, like its a close-up it look like the blade get down by itself. Thks !

[@karenholst8306]

👍👍👍💕💕💕🇩🇰

[@margaretcomella3318]

Thanks again! (I try to comment on every video. I hear it, and the like button, really helps a channel 🤷)❤

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Much appreciated, Margaret, thank you! 😊

[@bconsilio3764]

Hi Nik Do you still teach your Paper Marbling Workshop? When and where?

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Good morning! I have an online marbling class, but I am in the midst of choosing a new platform to sell them. As soon as I figure all that out, I'll be sure to give an update. Thanks for asking!

[@bconsilio3764]

@@NiktheBooksmith thank you

[@Steph_here]

Nik, do you still use your Instagram or is KZbin the only place we can find your work?😊

[@NiktheBooksmith]

hi Steph! I don't use Insta anymore. I got locked out a couple years ago and couldn't get back in to my account, so I gave up on it Lol

[@maptablemaple]

Hi Nik! I tried this several times but the spines always start curving inwards and I end up with a concave spine. Any idea what I'm doing wrong?

[@NiktheBooksmith]

If I'm understanding you right, could your stitching be too tight and it's pulling on the signatures? Alternatively, could the stitching be too loose and the signatures are all loosey goosey? If you are of a mind to, send me a message with a quick pic of what you're referring to at my Etsy shop (link under video).

[@maptablemaple]

@@NiktheBooksmith I'll send you a msg on Etsy! Thank you! I learned so much from watching your videos, I really appreciate it.

[@cherriemater]

I've been watching your videos to figure out how to rebind my personal bible. After watching this I don't think I can do it. 😢 I didn't realize how many steps there were in such a thing and my Bible is precious to me. Do you happen to know any binders who might be able to tackle a project like rebinding a Bible?

[@NiktheBooksmith]

Hi Cherrie! That's a great question. I don't personally know any restoration binders, but maybe your local library (or museum) would have a recommendation?

[@cherriemater]

@@NiktheBooksmith Thanks. We live in Northern Michigan so neither of those are an option. I'll just have to keep looking. 🤩

[@hubbysswee]

Hi! Why are they called signatures?

[@NiktheBooksmith]

That's a good question, I'm not sure why they specifically use that term.

[@sweetcurly28]

Thank you Nik, for showing this in great detail.. I so appreciate this very much. No fast fwd and making us guess the steps. ❤ Explaining each step in such a clear understandable way.. 🙏🏻👍🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻