Bookbinding Techniques and Projects (Decorative Techniques Series)
It’s no accident that this somewhat formal textbook on bookbinding concentrates on teaching by visuals. After all, author-instructor Josep Cambras, based in Barcelona, parlays his expertise originally captured in a 2006 Spanish version, now brought to the U.S. through Barron’s. It is precisely that combination of pedagogy and photography that should draw even first-timers to try this craft. Beginning with a historical overview, continuing to an explanation of tolls and materials, Cambras showcases his expertise initially, in the chapters devoted to half a dozen processes/techniques and the same quality of paper-painting methods. Featured are well-captioned, step-by-step color photographs of different sewing, gluing, and scoring skills as well as choices in paper decorations, from block-printing motifs to painting through folds. Then, 17 projects follow, each building on a skill learned in the preceding project, starting with a portfolio with flaps and ending with a puzzle. Along with dabblers, those interested in simple book restoration will also find tips and techniques in this professional presentation. --Barbara Jacobs