Kraft-tex is one of my favorite materials to use for covers in handmade books. It is a paper fabric that is strong, flexible, and a great alternative to leather.
Kraft-tex Basics
- Kraft-tex is available in sheets, rolls, and bolts from Amazon or directly from the manufacturer, C&T Publishing.
- It comes in two formats: a smooth, unwashed version and a textured, pre-washed version.
- The pre-washed fabric comes in 13 hand-dyed colors that are colorfast.
- There are also 5 vintage/neutral colors—black, chocolate, natural, stone, or white—in both the pre-washed and unwashed versions.
- Kraft-tex has a front and back side. The front is smoother than the back, and this is more pronounced in the unwashed variety.
Working with Kraft-tex
- Importantly for bookbinding, Kraft-tex has a grain, which is especially pronounced in the unwashed variety.
- It is robust enough to stitch by hand or using a machine.
- Attach paper to Kraft-tex using PVA glue, gel, and matte medium.
- When purchasing the pre-washed Kraft-tex, it will need to be squared up before creating book covers.
- Kraft-tex scores well to create a book spine.
- It doesn’t fray or tear and accepts wet medium well (see below).
Mediums that Work on Kraft-tex
Here are a few of the mediums that work on Kraft-tex. For more ideas, watch the video below.
- Watercolor paints
- Acrylic paints and paint markers
- Permanent inks
- Watercolor and regular colored pencils
- Gelatos, gel pens, Sharpies
If you’re looking for more handmade books to make with Kraft-tex, why not try this Triple Chain book tutorial?
Ali,
What tips do you have for using cork with fabric backing as my palooza cover? I find it’s bit challenging to make holes for stitching? Thank you.
Hi Linda – the best way to make holes in cork fabric is using a hole punch like a Japanese screw punch. If you don’t have a hole punch, you can mark the holes with a disappearing pen and then punch with an awl. The pen will make it easier to see the holes which tend to disappear when they’ve been punched. Once you finishing sewing, you can remove the pen, but usually the thread covers it up.