Images – Video – Text below:

I decided to use a Japanese stitched binding method for my book. I found an online tutorial and followed it the best I could although my book was not consistent materials wise, so this method needed adapting.

I realised that this type of binding would take a section of the left-hand side of each page away within the stitched area, so I extended each page using masking tape which I measured carefully so that it extended each page to be the same size. The process meant that each time I made a new sketch, found a new material or idea to include I would make a page individually. The process of selecting curating it all together could be decided later.

The order of the book is alphabetical with the archive description then memory being the first two pages for each object. I made the decision to alphabetise as this is commonly used in traditional archiving.

I spent a long time making decisions about what would be included and what made a good mix of textures, shapes, noises, weight and so on for the book. Once this was decided I then used a bulldog clip to hold everything in place to be able to experience leafing though as it would be when completed.

I did some research on bookbinding and shopped for materials. Waxed thread and bookbinding needles. I decided to reinforce the 360 holes which I was going to make for the stitching as I was not confident that the masking tape wouldn’t tear over time. I used clear plastic reinforcing stickers which was very time consuming applying each one!

The cover is an original painting/drawing hybrid piece and the back cover an offcut from this also. I have used inner cover back and front in heavier card to give the book some rigidity.

The actual binding was much harder than I imagined. After three broken needles and two flesh wounds I finally got it done. The main issue was the sheer number of pages and textures I had to push the needle through.

I am super happy with the outcome.