On My Bookshelf

Today's book was probably one of the most influential books in my bookbinding career. When someone asked me to make their wedding album, this was the book that I purchased--having known nothing about bookbinding. This week's book is Making Books by Hand: A Step-by-Step Guide by Mary McCarthy and Philip Manna.

By the time this came about, I was still making handmade greeting cards and boxes so I was familiar with the materials needed to make a photo album--what I didn't know was how. I ran across this book at a brick and mortar store and immediately knew that this was the book that I needed. I had purchased album kits before and had made books from them but this was going to be a start from scratch book.

The book is divided into three main sections: Techniques, Book Types and Projects, and Resources. The Techniques section is the basic beginning section of any craft/DIY book: materials, supplies, tools, etc. The second section provides step-by-step instructions on how to make accordion books, journals/scrapbooks, photo albums, and box books. The third section is an appendix of resources, suggested readings and a gallery of works.

For me, this is a perfect introduction to basic bookbinding. The directions are clear and well photographed/documented. The materials are basic and easy to acquire. This is a must have for anyone interested in making their own books or as a reference book for established bookbinders. This is only the second book in my library that I have made every project listed. Highly, highly recommended.

Journals and Scrapbooks

Full Disclosure: Neither Amazon.com nor the authors have provided any compensation for this review. This book was purchased in person without a personal perusal before purchase.