Japanese or Stab-sewn Binding

I took some time out recently to attend a local bookmaking class taught by Steve Cochran of Bound To  Be Around. It was a fun half-day class at his studio in Mt. Vernon, Indiana. I’ve made books before, but never any using Japanese binding. This was really fun.

In this class we learned three different techniques: Basic Stab Binding, Double Corner or Noble Binding, and Tortoise Shell Binding. We completed all three in this class, even taking time for lunch. Check out Steve’s website for upcoming classes.

Here are the books I made. The first is the basic stab binding.

That was fun and even though the easiest, it took us the longest to complete since this was our first book. I love the simplicity of this binding.

The next was the Double corner or Noble binding.

My binding is not quite straight.

Now to the tortoise shell binding.

There are instructions on the web for Japanese binding. Here is one on basic stab binding. But there is nothing like taking a class live and learning from a master. It’s also a great way to share the day with other crafters.