Bookbinding a new annual pastime?

One day, I decided I needed an agenda. And instead of buying an agenda, I decided I would make my own. I did a layout, added a weekly Bible verse for a more personal touch, and printed it out. I followed this Instructables on how to bind a book. Made my own book cloth using this Vimeo video tutorial.

I suppose I could’ve bought book cloth, but I was told book cloth was expensive. I decided to look up the price for this post. First link I could find: Hollanders Linen Bookcloth Natural costs $4.75 for 18 by 25 inches. I can purchase 17 inch by 3.25 yards of Heat ‘n’ Bond Lite at Walmart or Joann’s for about $10 and I have fabric available.

I had the materials for the hard covers. I used canvas board that I had laying around for many, many years from when I thought I wanted to make miniature paintings for fun. I wrapped them with an old map of Suzhou and I have myself a couple, interesting covers.

I just used Mod Podge craft glue instead of Elmer’s glue or PVA. It seems to work fine, right now. The spine has been glued for about two weeks now and it’s gone through a fair bit of testing. I’ve been using it without the hard cover until now because I had to get the fabric washed before I could iron on the adhesive and paper backing.

I’m thinking the 2013 agenda will have anniversaries printed, too. Larger format? Flimsier cover? I have a year to decide.