A single signature pamphlet sketchbook is super easy to make and it may even become your favorite everyday carry-along art supply.
You will need: a pencil, scissors, a bone folder, a darning needle, an awl, waxed thread or embroidery thread, paper, a pencil, and a punch cradle (optional).
Cut your paper into equal sized sheets. I used a larger sheet of 140lb cold press watercolor paper and cut it into three sheets measuring 3 x 4.5 inches. This will make a 2.25 x 3 inch finished book. Then fold your paper sheets in half, one at a time, and nest them together.
When folding paper, there is a right way and a wrong way. If you fold the paper the wrong way it will make a cracked and uneven crease. When you fold paper the right way, the crease will be crisp. This is because paper grain is directional based on how it was made. I am not going to get into the details of paper grain, but you can determine the grain direction of your paper by gently bending it one way and then the opposite way. One direction will feel easier than the other; this can be very subtle with some papers, so don't over think it. Use the easier direction for the best crease.
Fold Each Sheet
Nested Pages
The pamphlet stitched book needs three holes, evenly spaced from the center of the paper. I make one mark in the center of the fold, and marks 1/2 inch to 1 inch from the top and bottom of the fold. This gives three equally spaced holes for sturdy stitching.
Place the stacked papers into the punch cradle so the fold matches the guide. I use an inexpensive punch cradle from We R Memory Keepers. There are larger and fancier ones for use with bigger projects, usually available at bookbinding stores. The benefit of having a cradle is that you align your papers and use the holes without having to measure.
If you don't have a cradle, you can measure your holes and mark them with a pencil so you know where to punch.
Align Pages in Punch Frame
Punch Holes
Three Holes Punched
Thread your needle and begin sewing through all the papers, starting with the center hole to the top hole, then down to the bottom, and finally back to the center. Tie a knot and trim the ends. I like my knots on the inside, but you can also work so the knot is on the spine.
Sew Pages Together
Knot Thread
View of Spine
I don't usually add covers to my smaller sketchbooks, but if you would like a cover, cut a piece of patterned or color paper the same size as your other papers. Then fold, punch, and sew it on the outside of your paper pages.
