Book Binding 101 w/Kaori Watanabe

Hello CP Fans! Kaori Watanabe joining the Crate Paper Blog today with a simple, quick-to-make mini album. Personally, this is my favorite style album, not too busy, though not overly plain either. Inside is lots of room for for photos, large swatches of patterned paper, and a cohesive, graphic look that unifies the entire album, including the cover. And the best part, it's self-constructed, which means there's not another album out there like it!

The Must Haves

Paper Heart Collection: Patterned Papers {Delivery, Friendship, Cupid}, 6" x 6" patterned paper pad.

Peppermint Collection: Accent Cuts {Backside}

Random Collection: Patterned Paper {Graphic}

Toy Box Collection: Patterned Paper {Games}, Stickers

Restoration Collection: Patterned Paper {Refinish}

Portrait Collection: Stickers

Others: Chipboard Sheets, PVA Book Binding Glue, Scrap Fabric, Clamps

 

I opted to size and trim the chipboard and patterned papers first. Preferably, 4" x 6" - I really enjoy working with this size because it provides ample space for poloroid photo presentation. If you're without chipboard and would like to know where to find it, I suggest visiting your local art supply store or where ever book making supplies are sold.  You might request that they pre-trim the chipboard for you if you're not comfortable doing it on your own.

 

Once the chipboard and patterned papers are ready to go, move forward creating the pages of the album. In doing so, ensure that the "thickness" of each page is similar and that there's not too much "bulk". Try to stick with flat elements like I've done - this is where stickers are most handy!

*For page design ideas, visit the last set of images of today's post.

 

Ok, now we're going to begin the actual book binding process. Put together your pages "evenly" and in the right order. Turn the album on it's side and position several big clamps along it's edge. The purpose of the clamps is to keep the pages "in position" while the book binding adhesive is drying. 

 

While carefully holding the album, and with a medium size brush, apply an even, thin coat of adhesive to it's spine. *Don't use too much adhesive all at once! After the first layer has dried, apply a second, and then a third - each should be fully dried before the application of the next layer. The glue turns clear once it's dried. Allow the album to sit a total of four hours - make use of this time by finishing up some housework!

 

After the glued is readily dry, the next step is to add cloth to the spine so that it's covered and fully secure. You've the option to use paper instead of cloth if that's more preferable. The benefit of using cloth is that it's cleanable and flexible, which makes working with it a lot easier than paper. Here, I used vintage Chinese fabric. 

For added security, and to protect the album further, wrap the spine with a thin layer of cloth and attach it with book binding glue. Position the final piece of cloth as desired, and adhere it to only the front and back of the album. *Do not adhere it along the spine. 

Again, allow it to dry completely...

And here's the album fully disclosed, from start to finish.

If you haven't attempted a book binding project as of yet, this is a great way to get started on one - it's straightforward and doesn't require any stitching. Plus, it's totally Crate worthy!! You can't go wrong :)

Comments

[Anabelle]

Thanks for the wonderful tutorial, Kaori!! I need to find some of that glue! Adorable book. :)

[Julie Tucker-Wolek]

Thanks for the tips on how to make one of these!! It is absolutely stunning!

[Anna-Maria]

stunning! thank you Kaori!

[soapHOUSEmama]

such a great tutorial!!!!

[Alexia Nguyen]

thanks for the tutorial, very helpful!

[Becks]

Great tutorial! I have a question. Since there were 2layers of cloth used, is it the second layer that should not be glued to the spine, or both layers should not be glued to the spine? And what's the reason for that? Thanks do much!

[Christine M.]

The second layer can be adhered to the spine as it's a very thin layer of fabric. The final layer is thicker, and stiffer, so adhering it to the spine would give it less flexibility. The second layer is also added as adhesive will sometimes work it's way through the fabric. The second layer of fabric protects the album from an overabundance of adhesive.

[Jessica reyes]

Great tutorial! A great way to make your own album using that kind of glue instead of having to use a book binding machine. Will have to look for the glue & try this cute album. Thank you for sharing!

[Sara]

Such a beautiful and easy to follow tutorial!!! Thanks!

[Jenni]

Could I use card stock paper?

[Diana Trout]

I love this book and look forward to making one. One question. I've made glue spine books in the base and they don't lie flat. Does this one lie flat when bound? Thanks!