What Materials Do I Need To Get Started?

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For those who are just getting started with bookbinding, I’m including a copy of my recommended materials for my new miniature book series.

Required Materials
• Color printer or visit to Fed Ex
• 110 lb (300 gsm) cardstock
• 24-32 lb printer paper
• Paper cutter, scissors or craft knife
• Metal ruler
• Bone folder
• Small paintbrushes – I use small brushes, because there really isn’t that much surface to cover with these books.
• Bookbinding needles
• Thread – extra strong upholstery thread – avoid pre-waxed thread
• Beeswax
• Awl (or other hole-punching tool)
• PVA glue or paper-backed double-sided tape – This tape is particularly useful for putting the matchboxes together, much easier than glue.
• Book/chip board – you can also glue 3-4 layers of cereal box cardboard together or use the cardboard backing of a legal/sketch pad.
• Cover material: Bookcloth or lokta paper (or another sturdy handmade paper)
• If you don’t have basic tools yet, I would recommend The Papercraft Panda’s Starter Bookbinding Supplies Tool Kit, available on Etsy. This includes needles, thread, an awl, a paintbrush, a craft knife, a bone folder, beeswax and PVA glue.

Optional tools:
• Self-healing cutting mat
• HeatnBond Lite
• Tissue paper
• Scoring board
• Binder/chip clips
• Corner rounder – used to round corners for front cover label
• Bookbinding Square: 5-in-1 tool Corner Miter, Ruler, Trimmer, Hole Guide – this is one of my favorite tools.

Note: You’ll find some affiliate links throughout this guide. If you buy through Amazon links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! These are just examples to show you what to look for, so feel free to shop wherever you like.

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