Variations on the Sewn Boards Binding: handout, models

These models highlight the versatility of the Sewn Boards binding by presenting three variations on the classic quarter cloth structure.

Sewn Boards Binding: 1987 Prototype: This variation is based on Gary Frost’s first prototype for his Sewn Boards Binding. A quick and utilitarian notebook, the outer card folios are glued shut, the spine lined, and a breakaway spine wrapper is added while covering the book in sturdy bookcloth.

Sewn Boards Binding with Sewn-In Wrapper: Before sewing, a long strip of card is hinged around the one of the card folios that start and end the book. After sewing, the card strip is folded around the fore edge of the card folio it is hinged around, across the spine of the book, folded again at the fore edge of the second card folio, and rests inside that folio. The structure provides quick, low-adhesive protection for a text that cannot wait for a more formal binding. The wrapper can unfold as a wide panorama, presenting book arts possibilities.

Sewn Boards 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.

All three open flat, are perfect for edition work, and can be constructed quickly in a sparsely equipped home studio.

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 models revealing structural features are sometimes available.

Models of the “classic” Sewn Boards binding are available here.

Workshop handout not included with model but available separately: Seventeen-page workshop handout with bibliography plus tool and supply list. Please note this handout was written not to replace but to supplement an in-person workshop demo.