Questions to ask When Picking the Right Paper

#1. How many types of paper are there?

Depending on what you are making whether it’s a sketchbook, junk journal, Bible repair, etc. There are different materials to choose from like leather, cloth, and paper. The focus for this post is all thing paper! It’s important to ask the right questions in order to pick the right paper.

When it comes to paper there is also imitation leather (faux leather) made from a paper backing. It still looks like faux leather but it’s not backed by cloth or common synthetic components (PU, nylon, PVC). It has a surface that repeals water too. So, it would be considered waterproof or resistant to water. In my opinion this kind of imitation “leather” made from paper is much stronger and doesn’t peel.

Then, you have shiny paper, with a coating like wrapping paper. Other bookbinders use it, but I have no experience with it. There’s also regular paper like cardstock and my favorite is handmade paper with different finishes. If you want to see the variety of papers that exist, check out (Hollanders) to see the world of options they have for your projects. I personally love their store (it’s not sponsored).

#2. Should I use Imitation Leather (paper) or Cloth?

Can you include cloth in your design?

Paper is not the only thing you can cover a book with, but sometimes price is the reason we go with paper. So, if you’re on a budget book cloth is a pretty good option for you too. At times the right material might not be paper, and price shouldn’t be the only reason why you go with paper. If you decide to pick paper, make sure it’s because you think it’s beautiful and correct for your project.

I want to give you options if your a bit confused, just in case. The price difference between paper and cloth is not too different, plus it looks pretty and it’s strong. It also pairs well with many paper patterns, materials and textures.

I thought I’d mention it!

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#3. Does Paper Durability matter?

Durability is important depending on the purpose of you book project. I love handmade paper because it’s so cool, but the truth is that a book will be getting touched a lot and thrown in backpacks, purses and junk drawers (I hope not).

So, look at the paper of choice and ask yourself if this is the best option for your book project???

#4. Who is this for?

When picking or choosing your paper for bookbinding you must ask yourself if this paper material is good for this person based on durability, color, price.  If I’m designing a sketchbook for a man, it probably needs inside pages that aren’t pink and floral.

Hey, I don’t know. Ask the person directly.

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#5. What about the inside? (End Paper)

The inside pages of any book are there to pop and make a statement in your design. They will tell us what kind of book this is, at least I think so. You can choose from marble paper, which is the traditional I believe, and other fun prints and colors.

This is the perfect part of the book to be extra creative and throw a twist. When the person opens the book, it will bring all the feelings and thoughts. You want to open the book and smile.

What are you writing, drawing or reading in the inside of this book? It’s a good question to ask as you think about which paper to choose.

The end paper is my favorite part in any book design and choosing the right paper is so fun!

 #6. Think about the Color Palette? (Contrast)

The design process in any art form is driven by color or the absence of it. Have fun with your colors. Don’t forget steps 1-5 in this process because this where it all comes together.

I have so much fun with this part. There are many shades, tones, patterns and textures to pick from. The sky is the limit when it comes to paper and color choices!

Make your book project shine. Think about design principals like contrast, movement, symmetry, etc.

#7. Do you love your Design?

Once you pick the materials, color, end paper and you’re ready to start gluing and sewing. Congratulations, your one step closer to seeing you design come to life. Please enjoy your work because t’s a long process making creative decisions for any art form. It’s important to love the decisions you made for your project.

Embrace your design and make your bookbinding project shine. Hey, if you don’t love it in the end… well, you learned what not to do the next time.

So now what? I would love to see your creations.

Follow me on IG, Pinterest, YouTube and share your book designs so we can all see.

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