Why Bookbinding is the New Self-Care Trend You Didn't Know You Needed

 So, What Exactly is Bookbinding?

Picture this: you’re sitting at your dining table with colourful sheets of paper, some thread, and maybe even a bit of fancy leather or fabric. You’re crafting a real, hold-it-in-your-hands book. Bookbinding is all about assembling a book’s structure, whether it’s a simple saddle stitch project or an ornate hardcover masterpiece. If you’ve never tried it, start small with a pamphlet stitch – easy peasy and endlessly satisfying. Trust me, you’ll be hooked before you know it.

Ready to fall in love with bookbinding? Let’s count the ways this charming craft can transform your mental health.

1. Repetition = Relaxation

Ever notice how repetitive activities like knitting, doodling, or even organizing your closet can calm your nerves? Bookbinding offers that same rhythmic magic. Tearing paper, sewing signatures (that’s fancy talk for folded paper sections), and assembling your masterpiece involve repetitive motions that don’t demand intense brainpower. Instead, they ease you into a meditative state, quieting that overactive mind of yours.

Think of it like a workout for your hands and a spa day for your brain. Plus, bookbinding doesn’t just distract you from stress – it centres you in the present moment. Forget about yesterday’s drama or tomorrow’s to-do list; it’s just you, your tools, and the soothing rhythm of creation. I know we alll could use a bit of that. And hey, if you need some inspiration, there’s a whole world of ASMR bookbinding videos on YouTube. Watching someone bind a book can be oddly hypnotic – just don’t blame me if you lose hours in a crafting rabbit hole!

2. Hello, Accomplishment, My Old Friend

Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt amazing after checking something off your to-do list (uhhh all of us eldest daughters who thrive on “getting it done”). Now imagine the rush of pride that comes from crafting an actual book with your own two hands. Whether it’s a tiny notebook for jotting down grocery lists or a stunning journal to gift your bestie, completing a bookbinding project gives you a major confidence boost. As it should, because face it: this is an art that not many people know how to do.

It’s more than just ticking a box – it’s proof that you can create something tangible, beautiful, and totally unique. That’s a win for your self-esteem, especially on days when you’re feeling a little less than awesome. Bonus points if you share your creation on Pinterest and watch the likes roll in (because yes, your bookbinding deserves its moment in the spotlight).

3. Unplug and Unwind

We love our screens, but let’s be real: sometimes we need a break. Between doom-scrolling, work emails, and Netflix binges, our eyes and minds are constantly overstimulated. Enter bookbinding, the perfect analog antidote.

This craft forces you to put down your phone, pick up some paper, and focus on something tangible. There’s something magical about the feel of textured paper, the sound of thread pulling through a page, and the smell of glue (not in the get high kinda way though), the sight of a beautiful finished book that you’ve made with your own hands. It’s a multi-sensory experience that grounds you in the here and now. Consider it a tech detox with a side of creativity – because we could all use fewer notifications and more zen.

4. Tap Into Your Inner Artist

Let’s talk creativity. Bookbinding isn’t just about sewing paper together; it’s a chance to let your imagination run wild. When was the last time you let that happen? For me it was when I was a kid and I was reading Enid Blyton’s the Ship of Adventure — I would spend hours acting it out and improvising my own adventures. It’s like bringing back that sense of liberation and freedom into your adult responsibility-packed day. You can experiment with different materials – think vellum, vintage maps, or even fabric scraps. Play with colour, texture, and size to create a book that’s uniquely yours. Want to go full-on Pinterest queen? Add embellishments like ribbons, stamps, or calligraphy. Nothing will stop you from creativity more than the fear of making mistakes.

The best part? There are no rules. There are also do-overs if you want them. Your book doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be you. And tapping into that creative flow is one of the best ways to bust stress and boost happiness. Studies show that creative activities can reduce cortisol levels (that’s the stress hormone) and increase feelings of joy and relaxation. So go ahead – unleash your inner artist and let the magic happen.