Bookmaking: a single-signature pamphlet

Making a simple book is fun and rewarding. Beautiful books can be created using this simple technique. The following directions describe how to make a single signature book using pamphlet binding, one of the simplest ways to bind sheets of paper. As part of this type of workshop, participants can also learn the parts of a book, and some of the history of books.

The basic pamphlet uses 3 holes to sew through, but if the book is large, 5 or 7 holes can be used. Many types of decorative paper and handmade paper can be used for the cover, and silk and metallic threads can be used for sewing.

Materials:

• 3 or 4 sheets of photocopy paper or typing paper
• 1 sheet of medium weight art paper for the cover
• 1 piece of heavy thread, embroidery floss, or thin decorative cord, 3 times longer than the length of the spine of the pamphlet.

Tools:

• Bone folder
• Xacto knife
• Metal-edge ruler
• #18 tapestry needle or any large-eyed needle
• Awl or push pin
• Kitchen towel, folded in quarters lengthwise

Process:

1. Measure and cut the cover sheet 1/2 " taller than the text paper. Cut the paper 1" longer than the text for a fold-in at the edges. If using a sheet of handmade paper, the fold-in will not be necessary, so just have the extra 1" measurement. Score the cover paper and fold in half. Then mark 2" from each, score, and fold.

2. Score and fold the text sheets in half. Slip one inside another until the sheets nest together. This forms the signature.

3. Put the folded sheets inside the cover and open up the book, making sure to line up evenly the 1/4" margin on the top and bottom. Put paper clips on the top and bottom of the book to keep the pages from moving. Place the open book on top of the folded towel. Measure the center along the fold line and punch a hole with the awl or push pin. Then make 2 more holes from both edges.

4. Thread the needle. Sew through the middle hole (#1) to the inside of the book, leaving a length of thread to tie a knot, and sew up and out of the top hole (#2). Sew down the outside and into the bottom hole (#3), and come back out at the center hole (#1). Tighten or adjust the thread if necessary. Tie a bow or knot and trim thread to the desired length.

Note: The knot can also be tied on the inside of the signature. To do this start on the inside of the book instead of the outside.

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