Non-Adhesive Binding, Volume III: Exposed Spine Sewings

Keith Smith's Non-Adhesive Binding Manuals

From Keith Smith, one of the world's most accomplished bookbinders, the Non-Adhesive Binding series covers traditional and novel techniques in binding books without glue. From simple stab bindings and classic codices (covered in Volume I), to techniques designed specifically for short artist books (Volume II), to Coptic stitch and many more complex exposed-spine bindings (Volume III), Smith's bookbinding manuals cover each step in clear, detailed illustrations and text.

Author's Description of This Volume:

Part 1 is devoted to diagramming various true and false kettle and link stitches. Since the sewings in Part 2 require a sewing frame, three are diagrammed, in case you do not wish to invest in the expense of buying a sewing frame. One frame illustrated can be constructed easily for under $15 in supplies. It requires no skill to build, and requires only a drill and screwdriver. This frame utilizes carriage bolts for an adjustable crossbar.

Part 1 introduces how to use the sewing frame, how to round, to pack, and dying of cords and thread.

Part 2 is variations on raised support sewings, described by text, diagrams and photographs. Some employ the kettle stitch as changeover. Other means of changeover are explored, including packing, and endbands as changeover.

Part 3 demonstrates simple to very elaborate sewings, across, rather than along the spine. These require no equipment or sewing frame, only a needle, thread and scissors. Included are traditional sewings: the Butterfly; three 1-needle Coptic sewings, and five 2-needle Coptic sewings, as well as the Greek Sewing. Also are newly described sewings: the Caterpillar, Celtic Weave, Centipede, others.

The book also contains photographs of bindings by various contemporary binders.

Part 1 is devoted to diagramming various true and false kettle and link stitches. Since the sewings in Part 2 require a sewing frame, three are diagrammed, in case you do not wish to invest in the expense of buying a sewing frame. One frame illustrated can be constructed easily for under $15 in supplies. It requires no skill to build, and requires only a drill and screwdriver. This frame utilizes carriage bolts for an adjustable crossbar. Part 1 introduces how to use the sewing frame, how to round, to pack, and dying of cords and thread.

Part 2 is variations on raised support sewings, described by text, diagrams and photographs. Some employ the kettle stitch as changeover. Other means of changeover are explored, including packing, and endbands as changeover.

Part 3 demonstrates simple to very elaborate sewings, across, rather than along the spine. These require no equipment or sewing frame, only a needle, thread and scissors.

Included are traditional sewings: the Butterfly; three 1-needle Coptic sewings, and five 2-needle Coptic sewings, as well as the Greek Sewing.

Also are newly described sewings: the Caterpillar, Celtic Weave, Centipede, others. The book also contains photographs of bindings by various contemporary binders.