Bookbinding Tools Worth Owning
You can start with almost nothing, but a few specific tools make binding faster, more precise, and more satisfying. This page covers what each tool does and when to buy it.
Essential Tools
Bone folder — scores, folds, creases; plastic or teflon for coated papers
Bookbinding needles — blunt tip, large eye, available in packs
Waxed linen thread — 18/3 or 25/3 weight for most projects
Awl — for piercing holes in signatures; a bradawl also works
PVA glue — flexible when dry, archival quality
Useful but Not Immediately Required
Bone paper knife — separates and tears paper cleanly
Microspatula — manipulates glued pages without tearing
Book press or binder clips — holds glued sections while drying
Cutting mat and metal ruler for accurate trimming
Davey board (bookbinder's board) for hardcover case binding
PVA vs. Paste vs. Methyl Cellulose PVA (polyvinyl acetate) is the standard bookbinding adhesive — flexible, strong, and archival. Wheat starch paste dries slower and is more reversible, preferred for restoration work. Methyl cellulose is used as a sizing and for attaching Japanese tissue paper repairs. For basic binding, PVA alone covers 95% of needs.
Where to Source Materials
Online suppliers have the best selection — art stores carry only basics.
Where to Source Materials
Talas (talasonline.com) and Hollander's carry the full range of bookbinding supplies including specialty papers, boards, and adhesives. Amazon carries basic needles and thread. Local art stores may have bone folders and cutting mats. Japanese papers for endpapers and covering are best sourced from specialty paper suppliers.