Bookbinding: Longstitch Books

The long stitch bound book is characterized by its classic style and its ability to employ a range of visually dynamic sewing structures. A combination of long straight stitches and braided link stitches adorn the spine of the book, which can be made of leather, fabric, or paper. Long stitch bound books are durable and lay flat when opened, making them the ideal structure for sketch books, journals, and artist books.

Students will become familiar with bookbinding tools, materials, and terminology, as well as sewing techniques that will allow them to complete three 5″x7″ long stitch bound book variations from start-to-finish. Bindings that will be taught include the Soft Cover Slitted Spine Long Stitch, the Hard Cover Italian Long Stitch, and the Quarter Leather Long Stitch. For the fourth and final project, students will be given the chance to design and complete their own unique long stitch binding. This class will give students essential technical bookbinding skills and vocabulary needed to continue making books for years.