Hello there and welcome back! This is the second installment in my “spotlight” series, where I’ll be focusing on an item (tool, equipment, supply or material) that I use and LOVE in my bindery. This week’s ride-or-die item is all about an obsession of mine: fabric for book cloth.
Throughout the years, I’ve tried many different types of fabric to use for bookcloth, but I always come back to Rifle Paper Co. Here are four very good reasons I prefer this particular brand over swaths of others on the market today:
Boss Babe at the Helm
Rifle Paper Co. was started by Anna Bond back in 2009. She wanted to focus on playful, vintage designs – a combination that resonated instantly with her audience. Over the years, she and her husband have grown the company while having three children – proof that women really can “do it all.” Today, their company is valued at more than $21 million.
Cottons, Linens and Rayon…oh my
Most of the company’s fabrics are available in cotton (linen, canvas) and sometimes Rayon. I personally prefer cotton and linens due to their strength and versatility, so this is great for me. I also love how they feel and take to the backing I use (a Japanese rice paper called Unryu).
Vibrant Design
As the creative force behind Rifle Paper Co, Anna Bond participates as illustrator & designer, developing jaw-dropping (primarily vintage floral) illustrations for stationery, fabric, planners, calendars, desk accessories…you name it. I’m particularly drawn to her use of deep, vibrant colors, high contrast and – on the opposite end – coordinating neutrals and pastels. I know it’s going to sound a little hippie of me, but I feel like each pattern tells a story. Might be just me, though.
Consistency
What I love most about this company (apart from their gorgeous designs) is the consistency in quality I’ve experienced over the years. In short – I know what I’m buying when I buy it. There’s never a question of whether or not a specific color or pattern will feel or function differently (this has been the case with other brands I’ve tried). This peace of mind is priceless.
There is also consistency in their releases, which disappear after each season. If you like a pattern, scoop it up! Otherwise, you risk paying 2-3x more on Etsy or eBay.
Customers ❤️ Quality
I admit, in the beginning it was difficult to splurge on the material. I worried that my decision to convert this fabric to book cloth might be foolish, but my customers had the final word. They’ve told me time and again how happy they are that I’ve chosen such beautiful, quality fabrics for my books. To be fair, I don’t buy every single pattern released. Instead, I focus on patterns that resonate with me personally. These are the ones you’ll find in my small bindery, and I hope you’ll love them as much as I do.
Resources
It’s possible to buy RiflePaperCo fabric in many different places, but I do prefer to buy from their online store whenever possible.
Older designs that are no longer available can be purchased on Etsy from various sellers who cater to the sewing and quilting communities.
More on book cloth
- Learn How to Choose Book Cloth: Starched, Backed or Coated
- Looking to convert fabric into book cloth for bookbinding? Check out my post & video tutorial, How to Make Your Own Book Cloth Using Japanese Rice Paper.
- Are you wondering what the paper is best for covering for your books? Check out The Best Cover Paper for Hardcover Books.
I hope you enjoyed this week’s spotlight! Pop over to Instagram, Facebook or YouTube and share your thoughts with me!
ALL my best,
Misty
