Variations on the Drum Leaf Binding: handout, models.
The Drum Leaf binding is the perfect structure for printmakers, photographers, or anyone who desires to present visual narratives with no sewing thread to interrupt the flow of imagery. Because a Drum Leaf is made of single-sided folios, not signatures, the complexities of imposition are not necessary when laying out text.
This workshop highlights the versatility of the Drum Leaf binding by presenting first the familiar quarter cloth with breakaway spine structure, then seven variations. All versions open flat, are perfect for edition work, and can be constructed quickly in a sparsely equipped home studio.
Drum Leaf Binding with One-piece Spine Wrapper of parchment or stiff handmade paper
Drum Leaf Binding with Hugging Spine Wrapper: in this variation the spine wrapper does not break away from the spine. Rather when the book is opened the wrapper goes concave, conforming to the spine, providing support without restricting opening
Drum Leaf Binding with One-Piece Covering: This binding is covered in one piece of material, rather than the more standard quarter binding. The covering material can be book cloth or strong text-weight paper.
Drum Leaf Binding with Panel Boards: this variation resembles a Bradel or Simplified binding: the decorative paper is wrapped around a thin board before being attached to the book.
Drum Leaf Binding with Squares: in the classic version of this binding, the boards are cut flush with the text block. This variation protects the text block’s edges.
Two casebound options:
Drum Leaf Binding in Limp Paper Case: the case provides protection with a flexible, paperback feel.
Drum Leaf Binding in Hard Case
These models were made as demos while teaching a bookbinding workshop. They may include marks or notes made to aid students. Colors and patterns will vary. Cutaway bindings revealing structural features are sometimes available. The Drum Leaf Sampler combines elements of Hugging Spine, One-Piece Wrapper, and Dimensional Panels in one binding.
Models of the “classic” Drum Leaf binding are available here
Workshop handout not included with model but available separately: Thirty-seven page workshop handout with bibliography. Includes voluminous material not available in the eight-page handout distributed to attendees of the 2021 Guild of Book Workers Standards of Excellence in Hand Bookbinding Seminar, including complete tool and supply list and many additional techniques. Please note this handout was written not to replace but to supplement an in-person workshop.