Getting smooth edges on a text block can be tough as a budding bookbinder. Most online resources recommend you trim book edges one page at a time using a retractable blade or knife. While this can be done, it’s not easy. It took me years and many messy book edges to figure it out. So how does one trim book edges without cutting each one? Easy! They use special bookbinding equipment and machines.
Like me, you might be surprised to learn that the edges of a book are not naturally smooth. The processes of folding paper, collating signatures and sewing will offset each page, creating an uneven edge. It’s totally normal, but understandably annoying. That’s why we have some neat tools to help us out.
Book plough
A book plough is a piece of equipment often used by fine binders to trim the edges of a book. It has a set of handles attached to a steel blade that, when adjusted in half turns, slowly advance the blade into the paper. The binder slides the plough back to front along the foredge, removing one or more pages at once. This type of plough is called a “horizontal” or “traditional” plough. Ploughs can also be vertical or manual, but I won’t go into specifics here. Ploughs are considered specialty equipment, so they’re usually several hundred to a few thousand dollars each.
Swing arm guillotines
Established binderies sometimes use large machines, called guillotines, to trim one or more edges of a text block. It is stupidly satisfying to watch, but also terrifying (don’t mess up!). These large guillotines aren’t manufactured anymore, so they can be super hard to find. *Note: some “swing arms” are actually wheels. Don’t be surprised if you see one in the wild.
Some years ago, I decided to invest in a smaller tabletop version. While much smaller, the cost is still pretty high at nearly $550 and it can only cut through 20-25 sheets at once. You can read about my cutter and the properties I look for if you’re interested.
Ream cutters
A ream cutter is like a beefed up version of the smaller guillotine I just mentioned. They come in different sizes and can even fit on a table. These little work horses are capable of cutting through 50+ sheets at once. The cost is lower at $150-$250+, but they’re meant to cut through large volumes. In other words, it’s a one-trick-pony and should not be used to cut through one or two sheets at a time.
I bought a ream cutter two years ago and never looked back. It’s amazing. You can read about my ream cutter and the properties I look for in a paper cutter if you’re interested.
Manually trim book edges
While many people think manual trimming means “cutting one page at a time,” I don’t think it needs to be this way. I use very sharp retractable blades that cut through 2-3 pages at once, sometimes more. I love them so much that I even include them in my bookbinding kits.
The moral of the story is this: if you have a good blade, you shouldn’t be limited to cutting one page at a time. Just make sure you hold the book nice and still (I shared some of my tricks for doing this) for a clean, even cut.
I hope these suggestions will lessen your frustration and open up a few new possibilities for you! While buying equipment is not always in the cards, it’s good to know there are options out there if (and when) you’re ready. Take care and have fun!
Where to buy paper cutters
I ordered my guillotine paper cutter from MyBinding.com. I prefer this online retailer because their prices are in line with the industry and they offer support for most of their products.
I know fellow bookbinders have also ordered from Talas Online, but I know their shipping costs can sometimes be high.
More bookbinding goodness
✨ What tools do I need to get started bookbinding?
- Bookbinding Tools & Supplies Quick Start Guide – learn all about book making tools, which to buy first & where to go online
- Pick up my popular Complete Starter Bookbinding Tools Kit – all the bookbinding essentials in one spot
🌟 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
