Every book artist has their favorite tools for cutting, folding, and gluing paper. The tools pictured are some of the basics that you will need in most workshops.
- Metal Ruler: Cutting tools can cut into wooden and plastic rulers and damage the straight edge.
- Cutting Mat: These come in all sizes. The one above is a self-healing mat that doesn’t damage the blade of your cutting tool and is useful for small pieces of paper. Some people use cutting mats designed for quilters. In a pinch, you can use an old phonebook to cut on.
- Cutting Tool: I prefer the type pictured above—they have blades that snap off when they get dull. Big box cutting tools can damage your mats. I also have a scalpel I use for precision cutting.
- Small Scissors: These need to have pointed tips to make precision cuts.
- Bone Folder: The one above is the most common shape. They are useful for pressing folds in your papers. In a pinch, a dull straight surface such as a flat edged wooden spoon will work.
- Sharp Pencil: You will need to make accurate marks with thin lead. If you do not have a mechanical pencil bring a pencil sharpener with your pencil.
- Glue Stick: This adhesive is fine for beginning book artists. Some are archival and they don’t add a lot of moisture to your paper (which tends to warp it). Double-sided tape is also good.
- Bookbinder’s Awl: These awls have an angled point with a straight shaft. They are used for piercing sections in preparation for sewing.
To purchase these supplies, use this Resource List for local and online stores.