DIY Book Forum

I recently got a PM asking if you can you use any type fabric for book covers or if it has to be a certain kind of material.

Now, I tend to make paperback books, so I haven't done any experiments with fabrics on hardcovers. The few hardcovers I created used heavy paper to wrap the book boards. But, I do have a few thoughts on the topic.

From what I do know, I would say you can use a wide range of fabrics for your book cloth with good results. The main issues for choosing a book cloth fabric would be:

• Strong/Thick Enough to Stand Up To Use
• Bonds to Backer Board with Glue
• Opaque and Won't Show Through

If you are looking to make books that compare to professionally manufactured products, get book cloth supplies from a place like Amazon or Dick Blick that are specially designed for bookbinding.

If you are creating art/hobby projects for self expression, find something that looks cool and give it a try. The beautiful thing is that the hardcover goes on in a separate step after the bookblock is bound, so messing up the cover doesn't ruin the whole book. Just make another cover and glue on the one that works.

Hey, if you have experience with hardcovers, share your insights. Are there any fabrics you should avoid? If so, why - what makes them not work?

Andrew

iamdeb,

Thanks for the tip on using upholstery fabric for covers. That should be readily available and offer a wide range of options as far as look goes.

As I was reading your comment a thought came to mind - when gluing fabrics to book boards, use a spray adhesive rather than a wet glue. This is really important if you plan to work with any kind of delicate fabric where the glue would soak through and ruin the outer finish.

Of course, before you commit to any options, try to test it out first with small scraps to see whether it is likely to work at all.

Andrew

P.S. You are going to LOVE the jig report - but not as much as you will love using the jig itself once it is finished. Mine really transformed my bookbinding experience.

Google "make your own book cloth"

Paul,

I did exactly as you suggested and came across 2 useful articles:

http://www.ehow.com/how_2181911_make-book-cloth.html
http://bookmeat.wordpress.com/2010/02/07/making-your-own-book-cloth/

The basic premise seems to be - attach something to the back of the fabric you want to use to prevent glue from soaking through when you glue it to the book boards.

The first tutorial focuses on using an iron-on fabric adhesive to bind a layer of tissue paper to the cloth and the other uses something called Kozo paper and good old PVA glue to create the backing.

Anyone tried one of these techniques? If so, what are the limitations/pitfalls of going this route?

Andrew

...I intend to try Gorilla glue for thicker books.

And I have a 250+ page booklet waiting for my jig to be complete.

Having some poster board left over from homeschooling days, I was able to make two 8 1/2 x 11 inch covers and have a piece left for an 8 x 5 1/2 inch cover.

I have visions of book making dancing in my head...my horizons have expanded. Thank you.

Glad you are having fun binding your books. I got the same kind of thrill when I started (just something cool about being able to do it I guess.)

I recommend you stay away from the Gorilla Glue. Even though I started with it, there are too many problems associated with it. PVA glue is stronger than you think, but if you want something that gives you a bit more confidence, try a neoprene based contact cement (creates a strong and flexible bond) or a basic 5 minute epoxy (fast and strong, but not as flexible.) I've had good luck with both kinds.

Folks doing book art projects, repairing books for libraries, etc. or doing what I call "fine binding" projects should stick with PVA - it's acid free.

Be sure, when you have some finished projects, to take pictures and share them on the showcase area of the forum. Inspire others and brag - you've earned it!

Andrew