Join the Free Bookbinding Boot Camp! 

Everything you need to start your bookbinding journey with confidence, all in one place. 

 

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In Bookbinding Boot Camp, You'll Learn:

 Parts of a Book

Get familiar with the must-know vocabulary of bookbinding! In this module, we break down all the confusing terms that make up the anatomy of a book—like head & tail, hinge, joint, signatures—so you’ll feel confident and ready to start.

 All About Paper Grain

Learn how to identify paper grain and why it’s crucial for bookbinding. This simple but powerful concept can make the difference between a book that lays flat and one that fights back. 

 Making Signatures

Discover how to fold, stack, and prep your pages into a tidy booklet called a signature. This is the core of many book structures—and it’s easier than you think. 

How to Choose the Right Paper

Not all paper is created equal. In this module, you’ll learn how to choose paper that works beautifully for covers and pages —without wasting time or money.

Knots You Need to Know

Master the three essential knots every bookbinder should know. These sturdy, easy-to-learn techniques will keep your books secure and long-lasting.

Book Board 101

Get crisp, clean cuts every time. You’ll learn how to measure and cut book board to make strong, professional-looking covers that perfectly fit your pages.

Making an Accordion Book

Fold your way to a versatile and fun book structure! This hands-on module walks you through making an 8-panel accordion book—perfect for zines, art books, or simple journals.

Neat Covers

Finish strong! In this final module, you’ll assemble a beautiful hard cover from start to finish, complete with neat corners, crisp folds, and a polished look you’ll be proud of.

Answers to Common Questions

In this bonus module, we tackle the most common beginner questions—from what thread you should use to making your own book cloth—so you can move forward with confidence.

Bookbinding Boot Camp has everything you need to get started!

Maybe you've thought :

"Bookbinding looks too complicated—I wouldn’t even know where to start.” 

That’s exactly why Bookbinding Boot Camp exists! I break everything down into bite-sized, beginner-friendly lessons with clear, simple steps—no prior experience needed.

Or maybe: “I don’t have fancy tools or supplies.”

No worries! You’ll get a complete list of exactly what you need (and what you don’t), plus alternatives you likely already have at home.

Or: “I don’t have a lot of time.” 

Bookbinding Boot Camp is totally self-paced. You can learn at your own speed, whenever it works for you.

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Projects You'll Learn How to Create in Bookbinding Boot Camp

 

Bookbinding Boot Camp isn’t just about learning techniques—it’s about bringing them to life.

Once you’ve completed the core lessons, you’ll have access to six fun, beginner-friendly book projects to try whenever you’re ready. Do one, do them all, or come back later—these projects (and the boot camp) are here whenever inspiration strikes, and you can revisit them as often as you like.

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Hi, I'm Ali Manning.

I started my book journey over 20 years ago, making simple accordion books for my daughter. What began as a creative outlet quickly grew into a deep love for the ancient craft of bookbinding.

The road to learning this art wasn’t easy—information was scattered, instructions were often confusing, and the whole world of bookbinding felt a little too serious. That’s why I created Bookbinding Boot Camp: a fun, accessible starting point for anyone who wants to dive in without feeling overwhelmed.

My mission is to make bookbinding approachable and joyful. Bookbinding Boot Camp brings together everything you need to get started in one clear, confidence-building place—so you can skip the struggle and jump straight into making beautiful, handmade books.

See you there!