Step-by-step case binding tutorial

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Case Binding a Hardcover Book

Step 1: Prepare Materials and Workspace

1. Gather all the necessary materials mentioned in the video, including paper, bookboard, glue, book cloth, endbands, thread, decorative paper, and tools like a bone folder, needle, and cutting mat.
2. Set up your workspace with a flat surface, cutting tools, clamps, and any other equipment needed for bookbinding.

Step 2: Create the Book Block

1. Fold sheets of paper in half to create signatures of equal length.
2. Punch holes for sewing in each signature based on a punching guide.
3. Sew the signatures together using a French link stitch and kettle stitches to form the book block.
4. Press the book block between pressing boards to set the stitches and glue the spine.

Step 3: Make Endbands and Attach to the Book Block

1. Create endbands by folding fabric over cotton twine and shaping them with a bone folder.
2. Glue the endbands to the top and bottom of the book block spine to add strength and support.

Step 4: Measure and Cut Cover Boards

1. Measure the width and length of the book block to determine the size of cover boards needed.
2. Cut the cover boards to size, ensuring they are square and fit the book block properly.

Step 5: Attach Book Cloth to Cover Boards

1. Draw a midline on the spine board and glue book cloth centered on the midline.
2. Attach the cover boards to the book cloth, ensuring alignment and a snug fit.
3. Trim the excess book cloth and create neat corners by folding and gluing the turn-ins.

Step 6: Casing In the Book Block

1. Prop up the front cover against an object and place a moisture barrier under the endpaper.
2. Attach the endpaper to the book block, ensuring proper alignment and a snug fit against the spine.
3. Smooth down the endpaper with a bone folder and repeat the process for the back cover.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Place the book in a press for at least 8 hours or overnight to set the binding.
2. Remove the book from the press, warm up the spine by opening the book, cut the ribbon, and seal it with a lighter.
3. Your hardcover book is now ready to use and enjoy!

Congratulations on completing the case binding process and creating your own hardcover book! If you encounter any issues during the binding process, don't hesitate to reposition or adjust components to achieve the desired result. Enjoy your newly bound book and happy bookbinding!