The Bible Binding Process

Salt & Light Bindery leather bibles are hand crafted with care and dedication. 

Each bible is handbound through a meticulous, multi‑stage process designed to ensure exceptional durability and everyday practicality. This commitment to craftsmanship means every Bible we produce is built to be read and inspire for years to come.

Some of the steps..

1. The book block and spine is cleaned up of any loose material.
2. 2 x end papers are folded and glued oversize onto each end of the book block.
3. The end papers are carefully cut down by hand with a scalpel to match the book block exactly including the rounded corners
4. The end papers are marked for orientation.
5. Japanese tissue paper is cut to the size of the spine. This is then applied to the spine using a special strong but flexible binding adhesive. This ensures the spine is durable and can withstand daily use.
   
6. Two ribbons are glued onto the spine because one is never enough.
   
7. Top and bottom headbands are glued in place.
8. Mull (a type of fabric) is cut to size and glued onto the spine.
9. The mull is then glued onto the end papers. This ensures a very strong but flexible hinge to withstand daily use.
10. Another layer of glue is applied to the spine and kraft paper is glued and worked into the spine.
11. The leather cover is cut-out and engraved with our logo using a laser cutter.
12. The burn residue is cleaned off the logo and the leather edges.
13. The edges of the leather is rounded by hand.
14. The leather covers are marked for correct orientation and carefully measured and marked for perfect placement of the finished book block.
15. The back end paper has glue applied as well as the corresponding side of the leather cover. The book block is then attached to the cover (very nerve wracking part to get this perfectly straight)
16. The glued endpaper is then checked for creases and proper adhesion using a bone folder. The bible is then pressed using weight until the adhesive is set.
17. This process is then repeated for the front of the book block / cover.
18. The ribbons are cut and burnt to seal the ends.
19. The buyers personalised name engraving is lasered into the front cover.
20. Multiple coats of leather conditioner are applied. 
21. The bible is checked thoroughly to ensure everything is as it should be. The bible is now complete.