Working in a bindery, I hear lots of different theories and ideas people have about this ancient craft. In the post today I thought I’d share some of the common myths I have heard related to this historic trade.

Let's debunk five common myths about bookbinding:

1. Bookbinding is a dying art form: Contrary to popular belief, bookbinding is far from being a dying art form. While digital media has gained popularity, the physicality and aesthetic appeal of bound books continue to captivate people worldwide. Bookbinding has adapted to modern times, with artists and crafters using new materials and techniques to create unique and innovative book designs. There has definitely been a resurgence of people craving slower, more mindfully crafted goods. Handmade and made to last! The HUGE and ever growing crowds visiting the Lost Trades Fair in Bendigo each year is a testament to that!

2. Bookbinding requires specialised equipment: While traditional bookbinding techniques often use traditional equipment such as a bookpress, guillotine and hand tools, you would be surprised at how many tools or substitutes for traditional tools you would already own at home. Many professional bookbinders use precision equipment like sewing machines, paper cutters, and presses to enhance efficiency while maintaining quality, however you can get started at home with very little to no outlay on specialised equipment. We have created a FREE checklist of 10 Essential Bookbinding Tools if you want to know more. You can download the guide here.

3. Bookbinding is expensive: While certain bookbinding techniques, such as fine leather binding or decorative gilding, can be expensive due to the high-quality materials used, bookbinding as a whole doesn't have to be a costly endeavor. There are various affordable materials and simple binding methods that make bookbinding accessible to a wider audience. With a little research and practice, anyone can enjoy the art of bookbinding without breaking the bank.

4 .Bookbinding requires artistic and technical skills: Artistic and technical skills can certainly enhance the outcome of a bookbinding project, they are not essential prerequisites. Bookbinding is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice. Many beginners find joy in starting with basic binding techniques and gradually refining their skills. With the abundance of online tutorials, books, and workshops available, everyone can embark on their bookbinding journey regardless of their skill level. You can find out more about our workshops and online courses here.

5. Bookbinding is limited to binding blank pages: While traditional bookbinding often involves binding blank pages into journals or sketchbooks, bookbinding extends far beyond this application. Bookbinders create a variety of books, including novels, poetry collections, photo albums, artists' books, and more. They work with authors, photographers, and artists to produce beautiful custom-bound editions of their work. Bookbinding allows for bound creations that not only hold pages but also tell stories, preserve memories, and showcase artwork.

I hope that by dispelling these myths we encourage you to give bookbinding a try! Whether you're a book lover or an aspiring bookbinder, embracing the rich world of bookbinding holds endless possibilities. Share your creations with us on instagram using the hashtag #BindWithSBLibris

We’d love to see what you’re working on!

If you want a checklist of tools to get started with bookbinding, get our FREE essential tools checklist by clicking the link below.