5 Reasons Why Bookbinding Should Be Your New Favourite Hobby
For the stationary lover in all of us.
Hey there, ladies! Ever feel like your daily routine could use a little more sparkle? Between endless emails, binge-worthy shows, and juggling life’s many hats (homework coach to younger sibling, sous chef for mom, and driver for your nephews' afterschool activities), it’s easy to forget about making time for ourselves. But what if I told you there’s a hobby out there that lets you create something beautiful, tap into centuries of tradition, and even sneak in some self-care? Yep, I’m talking about bookbinding. Let’s break down why this delightful old school craft is making waves on the new age self care circuit. Bookbinding: the perfect way to reclaim your creative mojo and have some fun along the way. Let's dive in an explore this new hobby.
 1. You’re the Boss of Your Creativity
Think about it: when was the last time you created something entirely your own that was entirely just for yourself? Not a report for work, not a Pinterest-inspired recipe for the family, but something tangible and personal that was just for you? Bookbinding lets you step into the role of creator, designer, and artist all in one.
From the moment you pick your first sheet of paper to the final thread stitch, every step is an opportunity to make something truly yours. Want a cover made of vintage maps? Or leather? Go for it. How about a journal with hand-painted designs? Absolutely. You can even get fancy and make your own paper if you’re feeling ambitious. This is your playground, and there are no rules.
And the cherry on top? The finished product isn’t just soooo pretty to look at! (and it’s functional, too). Use your handmade book as a journal, a scrapbook, or even as a heartfelt gift. It’s like giving your creativity a standing ovation every time you use it.
2. Starting is Surprisingly Easy
Intimidated? Don’t be! Bookbinding may sound fancy, but getting started is easier than you think. The basics are simple enough to learn from a quick YouTube tutorial or a beginner’s class. And once you’ve got the hang of it, you can finish your first book in under an hour. Imagine the sense of accomplishment when you’re holding your very own creation in your hands! The main thing is to get paper to bind. You can start with blank pages or if you want a journal you can work in after, head over to our shop and choose one of our printable journals.
What’s more, the tools you need are minimal and often things you already have lying around the house – scissors, thread, needle, a ruler, and some glue. Sure, you can invest in specialty tools as you go, but for now, all you need is curiosity and a willingness to try.
That said, mastering the craft can be a lifelong journey. Like any art form, bookbinding offers layers of complexity for those who want to explore advanced techniques. So while you can start small, there’s always room to grow.
3. Endless Possibilities to Explore
If you’re the type of person who loves to learn, you’ll never run out of inspiration in the world of bookbinding. There are countless techniques, materials, and styles to experiment with. From ancient Japanese binding methods to modern experimental designs, the possibilities are endless. You can even graduate from bookbinding and elevate your game by adding your design touch to your book with cover and fore-edge painting.
Every new project is an opportunity to push your creative boundaries. Maybe you’ll work with recycled materials one day and premium leather the next. Maybe you’ll try making a concertina book or dive into embossing your covers. Whatever you choose, there’s always something new to discover!
Oh, and let’s not forget about the history. Bookbinding has been around for over 2,000 years, and every method has its own fascinating backstory. It’s like stepping into a time machine – one that delivers inspiration straight to your craft table.Â
Think about it: when was the last time you created something entirely your own that was entirely just for yourself? Not a report for work, not a Pinterest-inspired recipe for the family, but something tangible and personal that was just for you? Bookbinding lets you step into the role of creator, designer, and artist all in one.
4. Low-Stress, High-Reward
Let’s face it: modern life is hectic, and finding time for a hobby can feel impossible. But bookbinding is flexible enough to fit into any schedule. Got half an hour? Great! Work on folding paper or stitching a spine. Need to take a break? No problem. Your project will patiently wait for you to return.
This isn’t the kind of hobby that demands your attention 24/7. In fact, the process itself often requires pauses for glue to dry or materials to settle. These natural breaks give you time to tackle other tasks or simply relax.
And if you’re worried about space, don’t be. You can start on the corner of your kitchen table with a handful of tools – it’s all you really need to get started. It’s an accessible, stress-free hobby that delivers big rewards without taking over your life.
5. Joining a Rich Legacy
When you take up bookbinding, you’re becoming part of a tradition that dates back thousands of years. Long before Kindles and audiobooks, people were crafting books by hand to preserve knowledge, stories, and culture. It’s a legacy of creativity, ingenuity, and craftsmanship that you get to carry forward.
Whether you’re making a journal for personal use or a bespoke gift for a loved one, your work becomes part of a timeless story. And who knows? Maybe your handmade books will inspire someone else to pick up the craft, continuing the cycle for generations to come.
Why Wait? Let’s Get Binding!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some paper, thread, and glue, and start experimenting. Whether you’re looking for a new creative outlet, a relaxing pastime, or a way to connect with history, bookbinding has something for everyone.
Take a class, watch a tutorial, or simply dive in and see where your imagination takes you. One thing’s for sure: once you start, you’ll be hooked. And trust us, your future self will thank you for it. So until next week, while you’re exploring your newfound hobby, please remember be kind to yourself and those around you!
