Non-Adhesive Series // Long Stitch Binding

The Long Stitch Binding is an elegant non-adhesive structure that has been around for centuries! This course is part of the Non-Adhesive Series which explores binding structures that require no glue on the spine. In this workshop, we’ll create a modernized version of the Long Stitch binding in the style designed by the Library of Congress. While the sewing will mimic the technique used centuries ago, we'll create our binding out of medium weight handmade paper instead of vellum. The spine is slotted to make it easier to sew and offers a cleaner finish. The name of this binding comes from the sewing pattern that leaves long threads running down the spine along with pack sewing that occurs at the head and tail. Expect to learn best practices for uniform sewing, accurate folding and precise punching for the slotted spine. Find the full list of tools and materials required for this workshop below. After registering you'll have access to this workshop for 6 months. Perfect for any skill level including beginners.

4 Chapters // 7 Lessons

Discover how to sew a successful Long Stitch binding!

$60.00

Hand holding two long stitch bindings with spine facing upward to show off sewing.

Exposed Sewing

Rather than being hidden away, the sewing will stay visible on top of the covering material.

Detail of packing sewing at head edge of long stitch binding.

Unique Details

Carefully wrapping around the edges of the spine adds strength and gives this binding a unique feature.

Writing 'opens flat' in pencil to showcase the flexibility of the binding.

Open Flat

The long stitch will open mostly flat, with a just a hint of drape created by the spine area of the cover.

Here's What You'll Need:

Tools: ▴ Bone Folder ▴ Craft Knife ▴ Cutting Mat ▴ Japanese Screw Punch with 1.5mm bit ▴ Mechanical Pencil ▴ Needles - No. 18 Sharps ▴ Pin Vise or Awl ▴ Punching Cradle - optional // note: I'll show you how to punch with and without a cradle ▴ Ruler - with metric // note: I'll be working with metric, which allows for better precision and easier arithmetic ▴ Scissors Materials: ▴ Beeswax ▴ Cover // Handmade Paper (medium weight: 250-320gsm) - 1 piece cut to 155 x 370mm ▴ Punching Jig // 20pt. Sandstone Archival - 1 piece cut to 155 x 50mm // note: Sandstone Archival can be an expensive material, as an alternative use any cardstock or heavyweight paper ▴ Text Block // Mohawk Superfine White - 8 signatures, 6 folios - 155 x 115mm ▴ Thread // 18/3 Dyed and unwaxed linen thread - 1 piece cut to your wingspan

Curriculum

    1. (Included in full purchase)
    2. (Included in full purchase)
    1. (Included in full purchase)
    2. (Included in full purchase)
    3. (Included in full purchase)
    1. (Included in full purchase)
    1. (Included in full purchase)

Detailed Diagrams

Additional diagrams will help illustrate exactly how to execute steps that require more precision. 

Punching Signatures

I'll show you how to punch signatures with or without a cradle.

Close to the Action

With the focus directly on the spine, follow along easily to all the nuances of sewing.

What students are saying

First time taking a workshop from Herringbone Bindery? Find out why students come back again and again to learn from Erin.

”
Erin is a great teacher with a lot of patience. She makes sure that everyone understands all the steps. She uses different camera angles so I find it very easy to follow what she is teaching.
Patsy S.

Bryn Mawr, PA

”
I have taken almost every online book and box making class Erin has offered and can attest to the excellence of her workshops. She is thorough, patient, and meticulously organized. The pace is steady, never hurried, and we without fail complete the project. I always look forward to her new offerings, which she develops on an ongoing basis. From my experience, I have become a big fan of Herringbone Bindery!
Elaine N.

Los Angeles, CA

Ready to start binding?

Discover how to sew a successful Long Stitch binding!

$60.00