Traditional Bookbinding

• Each book contains several bound folios. A folio is a set of eight pages sewn together. Before sewing, the binder collates and folds the pages in half. The binder uses an awl to punch holes through the fold of each stack of pages. Each hole should be 1/2 to 3/4 inches from the length of the fold. The binder then stacks each folio in order and glues the sewn ends of the folio to the spine of the book. Then, the artisan decorates a front and back cover, and wraps the covers around the spine. Finally, the binder glues endpapers to the front and back of the book. The endpapers cover the inside front and back covers, and provide another way to secure the folios in the book.
  
  

Utilitarian Binding

• A common way to temporarily bind pages together is in a three ring binder. There are a wide range of binding products available that give you the chance to express your creativity. Decorate a purchased binder with stickers and artwork that reflect your book's theme. You can also leave the binder out. Instead, thread three rings through the punched holes in the pages. Don't limit yourself to office supply rings; for instance, consider unconventional binding rings, such as key rings, that can reflect the mood of your work.
  
  

Decorative Bookbinding

• Handmade books don't need to follow the same process as manufactured books. Instead, skip the folios and bind the book with a decorative spine. Punch holes in the pages and covers of the book and thread ribbon through the holes, binding the pages to the cover. For a more masculine look, tie the pages with a leather thong. Choose material that reflects the contents of your book. For example, bind a book about plants with hemp cord or a book about recycling with strips of old fabric.
  
  

Unique Binding

• Don't limit yourself to binding the left edge of your book. Try binding the top or the bottom for more convenience or a special look. You can also bind your book without punching holes at all. Instead, line up your pages from right to left. Tape each page to the next to form a single strip. Accordion pleat the strip of pages. Cut a front and back cover for your book, and tape these to the ends of your strip. Wrap your book with a single tie to hold it closed.