If you’ve ever wanted to try bookbinding for yourself, you are in the right place. The pre-formatted book signatures available here will allow you to create something truly personal —your own handbound edition of a classic novel.
Book Signatures
A book signature is a collection of folded pages. A group of signatures sewn together into a textblock is then ready to be bound into a book. These signatures are carefully prepared with thoughtful attention to every page — from fonts and formatting to balanced typesetting — giving you a high-quality starting point for your own project. Whether you’re an experienced bookbinder or just starting out, these PDF files will make it easy to dive into the craft and create a custom book that’s uniquely yours. You will also receive several pages of information to get you started, along with suggested resources to support your bookbinding process.
Note: These are not print-and-fold textblocks. Each side of a sheet of 8.5″ × 11″ paper contains four pages. After printing, the sheets are cut in half and then folded to create 4.25″ × 5.5″ signatures. See The Charm of Small Books for more on why I chose this format.
For those who prefer a finished product, I occasionally sell hand-bound journals and books. A small selection of books and journals is available in my Etsy shop, while custom bookbinding—using public domain classics—is available by request. Each item is made start to finish in my Portland workshop using traditional techniques. From selecting premium materials, sewing the signatures together by hand, to designing and constructing the covers, I ensure that every book is built to last and designed to be cherished for years to come. Unlike mass-produced books, which often rely on machines, each of my hand-bound editions is a true labor of love, crafted with meticulously attention to every detail.
Book Gallery
Books made using some of the printable textblocks. Not for sale–just examples to show what’s possible with home bookbinding.
Thank you for supporting handmade craftsmanship, whether you’re making your own book or choosing one of mine. I hope you find something that sparks your creativity or adds a special touch to your collection.
Craft Your Own Classic Book 
