Let's Make a Sketchbook! Coptic Stitch Binding Tutorial

By thefrugalcrafter Lindsay Weirich on July 31, 2024

Hi friends! I have been asked to create a tutorial for my sketchbooks. I had resisted for quite a while because there are many other videos about a Coptic stitch binding but after hearing so many viewers say that they couldn't understand the other tutorials I decided to make one.

You don't need too many materials to make these. You can use any large eye needle, whatever paper you like, string thread (I buy waxed bookbinding thread now but my first one was done with embroidery thread and it worked fine) an Awl or something to poke holes with, and something to use as a cover. I use mat board but you can use the back of a watercolor paper pad too. If you want to get fancy, you can cover the boards with decorative paper or cloth; if so, you will need some glue.

The process is a bit time-consuming, especially the first time you make one but after that, it will take about an hour to complete one and it is a very relaxing project once you get the hang of it. Best of all you can make your sketchbooks out of whatever paper you like or even a mix of papers. Are you ready? Let's make a sketchbook!

Supplies (affiliate links to Blick and Amazon provided)

Paper (22"x30" 100% cotton 140# is my choice)
Bookboard or Mat board: (you can glue together a couple of cereal boxes instead of buying this, just be sure to cover them with an acid-free paper and glue to buffer them.
This tool kit contains the tools and thread you need OR you can buy things individually
Waxed thread
Bone Folder
Embroidery Needles
Awl (pokey tool)
Optional: A heavy Duty hole punch is wonderful for covers
Craft knife and cutting mat
Scissors
Metal ruler
Scrapbook paper (optional)
Band-aids LOL!
Permanent glue stick (if you are covering your book boards) OR you can use acid-free glue and a brush
Optional cover tool I mentioned

Tips & Tricks

If you are using thinner paper you can have more sheets of paper in a signature. Using more than 2 sheets of 140# watercolor paper will prevent the book from lying completely flat when working but you could use 3 sheets of 90# paper or 6 sheets of 24# paper or a mix!
You may prefer a curved needle, especially for attaching the final cover.
Covering the covers is optional but if you are using an acidic board (like a cereal box) covering it with a acid-free paper like scrapbook paper will act as a buffer against acid migration from the cover to your pages.
Keep the string firm as you go. If your book is too loose when you are done you can undo it and resew it. If it is too tight simply place it under a heavy weight. It will flatten out as it loosens with use.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. Please consider sharing it with a friend by clicking one of the handy sharing buttons below. Thanks and Happy Crafting!