“What’s your favorite tool?” I get asked this question a lot, and it’s not always the easiest to answer. (It’s like picking your favorite child!) A while back, I was reorganizing my studio space, and I realized the importance of having my favorite and most-used tools closest to me on the work bench. I want these items to be easily accessible and always within arm’s reach. So which tools do I want to be close by, you ask? Here are my top 13 essential bookmaking tools that I like to have at my fingertips.
Note: I have no affiliation with any of these suppliers.
- Olfa 9mm knife + remember refills
- Teflon or Plastic bone folder
- Thin awl
- Heavy duty awl (short stabbing awl)
- Punching cradle (you can make your own!)
- Corner mitering tool from Colorway Arts
- 24” long quilting ruler
- Needles #18 blunt from Colophon or #1 & #18 Bookbinder needles from Talas
- 10” 30/60/90 aluminum triangle
- 1” synthetic flat wash brushes – I like Dynasty brand
- Paper knife (sometimes called a shoe knife)
- 2” Strips of scrap paper
- Heavy duty mason jar
Check out the video below to see a walk-through of these items!
HI! I’M ALI MANNING
Years ago, I learned about handmade books, and ever since then, I’ve been hooked. I love creating new designs, learning about different techniques, and expanding my collection of paper. But what I love most about bookmaking is the community.
Through Vintage Page Designs and the Handmade Book Club, I’ve met thousands of other passionate bookmakers, mixed-media artists, and crafters. We all share a love of book arts and crafting, just for the joy of it.
I believe that bookbinding and book arts are for everyone, regardless of skill level or equipment. All you need is a little creativity and, of course, paper!
I always keep a roll of dollar store waxed paper handy when I glue paper/fabric to book board. I place sheets under my materials to catch errant glue drips that are easy to wipe up. This spares my cutting mat/table. When I’ve taught book-making classes, I’ve always supplied 1”-1.5” cheap foam brushes to apply PVC or Yes! adhesives as opposed to more costly bristle brushes. Foam brushes spread glue smoother and faster thus giving more time to properly position cover material on board and execute sharp, even corners which can be tricky for newcomers.