Review by Booklist Review
As traditional books give way to their electronic progeny, the book as object becomes more significant, and the utilitarian evolves into art. Bookbinder Ekrem shows how to produce all sorts of handmade books and related accoutrements. Simplest of these projects, a bookmark comes into being by recycling the spine of a damaged or otherwise repurposed book. A decidedly retro book strap, simply and artfully embellished, requires little more than a length of leather, some metal D rings, and binder's thread. An old sweater metamorphoses into a luxurious softcover for a personal journal. Seashells make unique and ideal covers for a little nature journal. One board-bound and leather-wrapped book makes a perfect tool for pressing botanical specimens. Ekrem gives explicit instructions and inventories of materials as well as detailed color drawings and template designs to empower motivated artisans to use their imagination and explore the world of handmade books.--Knoblauch, Mark Copyright 2015 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
Bookbinding and book creation have a long and storied history. Graphic designer and artist Ekrem pushes the boundaries of that craft in her debut book. Readers are first introduced to the materials and tools needed. The components of a book are described with excellent illustrations, along with a quick overview of traditional book-making. The proper way to deconstruct an older book, styles of stitching, and tying together pieces of the item are also well displayed and explained. The projects are grouped by materials used: vintage, nature, and leather. The incorporation of nontraditional materials or elements makes for a wild degree of variety that is sure to appeal. While Ekrem delves into new book creation, the topics of repair and restoration are not included. See Josep Cambras's Bookbinding Techniques and Projects, which addresses restoration and ventures further with designs on protective cases and boxes. Similarly, Heather Weston's Bookcraft offers a great foundation in bookmaking. VERDICT This fresh look at an old art will be in demand and is highly recommended. © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
