Creating Label Wells
- support54077
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
Creating a label well allows a customized label to sit flush with the surface of the case, protecting its edges while giving the finished book a refined, professional appearance. This technique is commonly used in covered clamshell boxes, presentation bindings, and edition work where both durability and aesthetics are important.
There are several approaches to forming a label well. Below, we outline two common methods—one subtractive and one additive—each with its own advantages depending on your workflow and desired finish.
Materials & Tools
Bookcloth or covering material (flexible cloth or leather recommended)
Printed or tooled label
Glue brush or adhesive spreader
Waste paper
Silicone release paper or wax paper (for interleaving)
Flat board and weights or a book press
Method One: Delaminating the Board
The first method involves removing material directly from the binder’s board to create a recessed area.
Begin by carefully marking the outline of the label placement. Using a sharp knife, score along these lines. Then, with a micro spatula, gently lift and peel away a surface layer of the Davey board.
This process can be time-consuming and requires a controlled hand, but it allows you to create a well without adding thickness to the cover board. As you work, aim for a recess slightly larger than the label itself, leaving a small amount of space for ease of placement.
Keep in mind that once the board is covered, the thickness of the bookcloth or leather will reduce the apparent depth of the well.
Method Two: Building Up with Bristol Board
The second method creates the label well by building up the surrounding surface rather than removing material.
Cut a piece of bristol board to match the size of your cover, then cut out a window where the label will sit. This opening should be slightly larger than the label to allow for accurate positioning.
Adhere the bristol layer to the binder’s board using Jade 403 PVA, aligning all edges carefully. Place the board under a flat surface or in a press and allow it to dry thoroughly.
This method is often faster and produces a cleaner, more uniform result. One consideration is that it increases the thickness of the front board. If desired, the back board can be built up to match for consistency.
Covering the Boards
Once the well has been created using either method, the boards can be covered as usual.
Apply adhesive evenly across the surface, taking care to work glue thoroughly into the recessed area. When positioning the boards onto the bookcloth, lay them face down as you would in standard case construction.
After aligning, flip the assembly and use a bone folder or Teflon folder to gently press the covering material into the well. This step slightly stretches the material so it conforms cleanly to the recessed shape. Flexible bookcloth or leather performs especially well here. Cutting a small “X” into the material within the well can also help ease it into the recess.
Continue constructing the case as normal—turning in corners and pasting down edges. For a full walkthrough of this stage, see our guide: How to Case in a Text Block
While the case dries under weight, placing a piece of bristol board cut to the size of the well into the recess can help maintain a crisp, even shape.
Setting the Label
Once the case is fully dry, apply PVA adhesive to the back of the label and position it carefully within the well.
Cover the label with silicone release paper or wax paper, then place the book under weight to dry. This ensures strong adhesion and helps the label sit perfectly flush with the surrounding surface.
Final Result
A properly executed label well creates a cleanly inset label that is both visually elegant and structurally protected. Whether you choose to remove material from the board or build up around the label area, this small detail can significantly elevate the finish of your work.
