Hey Bookbinders!
Sorry for the delay in getting you part 2 of the bookmark charm tutorial. The summer holidays have started and I’m moving to a new shop and putting on a paper installation while also keeping up with the orders. Wild! I tell ya!
Anyway, it’s been on my to do list forever, but I’m so pleased to share my method of attaching your bookmark to a case bound book block.
Casing In
A case bound book refers to a book block (generally sewn with either Coptic or French link stitch) that is attached to a hard cover. The term for this process is called Casing In.
This tutorial shows you the bit in-between, after sewing your book block and before casing in your block to your hard cover. We will attach your ribbon bookmark, along with headbands and use bookbinders mull to glue everything in place.
Here’s what you need:
Sewn Book Block
Your ribbon bookmark (I attach it before putting the charm on)
PVA Glue
Bookbinders Mull (crepe paper is a great alternative as it can stretch with your book)
Glue brush
Headbands
You can find how to do a Coptic or French link stitch in the Stitch Library. If you’re a member you have all the tutorials ready to go.
If you haven’t made your bookmark and charm yet - here’s the tutorial for that:
Tell me in the comments if you want me to show you how to fully case in the book block to its cover. Don’t forget the Bradel binding tutorial from June is another fantastic way to make your hardcover and it shows you how to attach everything together too. The method is the same.
Tutorial: Attatching your Bookmark to a Book Block
I have absolutely loved learning the process of making ribbon bookmark charms. In fact I really love how you can personalise your books by adding hardware. It feels really special. Now when I head off on my charity shop escapades, I like to look at any bits of jewellery I can buy that might make good book charms. It doesn’t have to cost very much to personalise your books or choose them as gifts. Let me know if you try it.
What’s coming this month?
Next up is a freebie. I asked you to vote on a tutorial from my website that I’ll put inside the bookbinding club - drum roll please.
I can share that it will be Pencil Boxes - you chose well! Who doesn’t love a pencil box!
Keep your eyes peeled for that one.
I’m now just heading into a big work week - making a paper installation and then getting the keys to the new shop, which will have a bit of a cosmetic renovation, before I close and then reopen my physical space by the end of the month. In my head there isn’t much to do to make the transition - really hoping to not have to close for very long, but we’ll see.
I have also listed my in person workshops in the new space - they are filling up fast. If you’d like to grab a spot and make things together in person I’d love to meet you!
Happy bookbinding!
Yvette