A solid spalted sycamore sketching journal. and notebook, featuring integrated endbands and various sewings on jute supports and hemp ropes.

For this binding both boards were hand carved to allow a single and continuous length of hemp rope to weave through the boards and act as raised supports at the head and tail. In addition, two jute cords were anchored to the boards with brass binding posts and a central herringbone jute strap was lashed to the boards using Barbour linen thread. The signatures were wrapped in handmade Lotka paper dyed with cacao beans and strands of jute grass. This thick and heavy decorative paper with randomly weaved fibres helps to protect the exposed spine.

 

Three separate sewings were performed along the spine, including packed cords with integrated endbands at the head and tail, a modified pearl stitch across the cords, and a French link stitch over the herringbone strap using linen thread. The book is held closed with a heavy cotton webbing strap that is lashed to the back board with Barbour linen thread and fastens with a brass button on the front board that is recessed for a low profile.

 

I wanted the stitching and supports to feel integrated into the entire structure of the book, with the hemp rope securing both boards and supporting the signatures. The hemp rope is inlaid on the inside covers, and all of the raised supports are recessed on the spine edge to maintain a streamlined aesthetic. The supports allow for maximum flexibility whilst providing a strong and rigid structure.