Preparing a book spine for binding is a critical part of the bookbinding process. Follow these steps to ensure your text block is secure and ready for casing. Here's a straightforward guide to help you through the process.
Watch the video and follow the instructions below:
Materials You’ll Need
Text block (sewn or prefabricated)
Japanese paper strip (cut to the width of the spine)
Western paper strip (also cut to the width of the spine)
Mull fabric (cut to three times the width of the spine)
Jade 403 PVA glue
Step-by-Step Instructions
Secure the Text Block:
Insert the text block into the book press with the spine sticking out about an inch on the side without the brass strips.
Tighten the wingnuts to secure the textblock in place.
Apply the First Layer of Glue:
Using a brush, coat the spine of the book with a thin layer of Jade 403 PVA glue.
Pay extra attention to saturating the binding tapes if using a sewn text block.
Allow the glue to dry completely before moving on.
Apply the Japanese Paper:
Once the first layer is dry and no longer tacky, apply a second layer of glue to the spine.
Cut the strip of Japanese paper slightly shorter than the length of the spine.
Lay the paper along the spine and use your fingers and a bone folder to mold it to the spine.
Allow the paper to dry fully before proceeding to the next step.
Apply the Western Paper:
After the Japanese paper has dried, apply another layer of glue to the spine.
Cut the strip of Western paper to the same length as the Japanese paper and apply it similarly.
Burnish the Western paper thoroughly with your bone folder to ensure it adheres snugly.
(Optional) Add Endbands:
If you wish to add endbands, do so at this point. Apply them after the Western paper but before applying the mull fabric.
Apply the Mull Fabric:
Apply another layer of glue to the spine (and endbands, if added).
Cut the mull fabric to the same length as the paper strips and center it along the spine, with equal excess on both sides.
Press down evenly to adhere the fabric to the spine.
If working with a sewn textblock with binding tapes, use a scalpel to make slits in the mull just above each tape, allowing the tapes to pass through.
Carefully thread the tapes through the slits, ensuring they interlock securely with the layers.
Burnish the mull with a bone folder to ensure a strong bond.
Final Touches:
Trim any excess length on the tapes.
Your text block's spine is now fully prepared for casing.
Conclusion
By following these detailed steps, you'll ensure that your book's spine is perfectly prepped for binding, leading to a durable and high-quality finished book. Happy bookbinding!
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