Recently, I wrote a post about how long it takes me to bind one of my signature journals (10 hours). Almost immediately, I received messages from creatives thanking me for confirming that they “just don’t have enough time” to try bookbinding. I hate to burst bubbles, but they don’t get to use me as an excuse for not trying. The time quoted is only a point of reference and is based on a suite of decisions I make whenever I decide to bind a book. By changing a few of these, you can easily shorten the bookbinding process.

If you’re looking for a faster way to bind your own books, here are five easy ways to do it:

Pre-made coverings

Time saved: 1 hour

While I choose to make my own book cloth from fabric, you don’t have to. There are tons of beautiful book cloths and handmade coverings available for sale, shipped right to your door. I even discuss The Best Cover Paper for Hardcover Books if you’d like to find affordable materials that don’t sacrifice beauty or style.

Full vs. Quarter binding

Time saved: 45 minutes

While we’re at it, you may decide to use one entire sheet of covering material vs creating a quarter binding as I did. A quarter binding is one where the spine and covers each have different materials. Opting for one solid sheet will save you all the extra steps required to measure, cut & glue the additional material.

half binding with black buckram spine and blue florals garden party rifle paper co fabric
Example of a half binding, where the spine is covered in a different material from the covers

Lined vs. Blank paper

Time saved: 40 minutes

Next, will you buy lined paper, print your own or leave the pages blank? I use a lined paper template for printing and cutting in my bindery, but it’s not required. Save even more time by leaving the pages blank. There’s nothing wrong with blank pages.

No-sew binding

Time saved: 120 minutes (2 hours)

Sewing signatures is a long process, but you don’t have to do it. Many paper back and hard cover books are created using the Perfect Binding method. This method secures signatures at the spine using glue. Removing the sewing process also strips away the need to saw or use linen tapes. Learn how to create a perfect binding in my tutorial, Make a Handy Notepad in 15 Minutes or Less.

Pre-sewn text blocks

Time saved: 225 minutes (3.75 hours)

Pre-sewn text blocks can be found at major bookbinding retailers & through some small Etsy stores. All are complete and ready to be covered, saving the time it would take to print, fold, saw, sew, glue and apply a mull to the text block. I discuss How to Find Lined Paper for Bookbinding if you’d like to understand more about these products.

Making time for things we love

As you can see, it’s possible to shorten the bookbinding process by at least 5-1/2 hours. That’s more than 50% off the reference time just by changing a few key decisions.

Now, if you don’t have 4-1/2 hours in a week to make a book, then I cannot (and will not) try to change your mind. Time is precious and I understand more than anyone how hard it can be to fit hobbies into an otherwise busy day, but I will say this: your happiness is worth it.

I know mine was.

More bookbinding goodness

✨ What tools do I need to get started bookbinding?

🌟 Looking for a simple way to start making books? 

Try a Complete Book Materials Kit. Each one has everything you need (+ tutorials & videos) to make a beautiful book without all the fuss.

Thank you for taking me along on your book making journey!

Misty