What if I do not have the exact materials shown?

Close substitutes work fine — any 120 gsm sheet, any waxed thread. The technique is forgiving; the materials list is a suggestion, not a rulebook.

How long does it actually take?

The video runs under the estimated time, but first-time binders usually take longer. Block out about 30 minutes for your first attempt.

Can I sell books I make from this tutorial?

Yes. The technique is centuries old; our demo is free to learn from and adapt. A link back to Spread & Spine is appreciated but not required.

beginner · 15 min

What you need to start book-binding

The tools and materials list for your first book — with quantities, specifications, and INR prices so you can shop once.

You can bind your first book with five items that together cost under INR 1,400. This tutorial is a shopping walkthrough — what to buy, what gsm or ply to pick, and what to skip in your first month.

Materials checklist

| Item | Specification | Quantity | Price (INR) | |---|---|---|---| | Recycled paper | 120gsm, A4 | 24 sheets | 140 | | Waxed linen thread | 18/3, natural | 5m | 50 | | Bookbinding needle | Size 18 | 2 | 60 | | Chipboard | 2mm, A5 | 2 pieces | 50 | | PVA glue | Neutral pH | 100ml | 160 | | Optional: bone folder | Bovine or plastic | 1 | 180 | | Optional: awl | Any handle | 1 | 220 |

Core total: INR 460. With the two optional tools: INR 860.

Steps

Pick the paper first. 120gsm is the safe default; ask your local art shop for recycled mixed-media.
Source the thread. 18/3 waxed linen is the standard; avoid cotton and polyester.
Get the needles. Size 18 blunt needles have a large enough eye for waxed linen and a tip that will not split paper.
Cut or buy chipboard. 2mm is rigid enough for a cover and still trimmable with a sharp knife.
Buy PVA, not white glue. Fevicol SR 998 or Mowicoll; both are neutral-pH.

What to watch for

If the shop only stocks 70–80gsm, walk away. It will ghost under any pen.
Some "waxed linen" at craft shops is actually waxed cotton. It fuzzes; hold it to light and look for long parallel fibres if you are unsure.
Chipboard from cereal boxes is too thin (under 1mm) and warps. Use 2mm binder's board.

FAQ

What is the cheapest way to start book-binding?

Under INR 500 for the minimum kit — paper, thread, needles, chipboard, and PVA. With a bone folder and awl added, INR 860.

Do I need a book press?

No. A stack of textbooks with a 5kg weight on top works identically for the first year of binding.

Can I substitute embroidery thread for linen?

For one practice book, yes. After that, invest in 18/3 waxed linen — embroidery floss fuzzes and loses tension within weeks.

Where in India can I buy bookbinding supplies?

Our supplies shop ships nationally. SP Road in Bengaluru and Fort in Mumbai also have dedicated stationery wholesalers. See the beginner shopping list for a full map.

More to try next: folding a paper signature, make a simple pamphlet binding, or the Coptic Journal Starter Kit.

next step

The kit for this tutorial

Skip the sourcing — see the coptic journal starter kit with everything pre-cut to size.