A book press is used to evenly flatten handmade books. They can hold pages securely while gluing, and prevent covers from warping while the glue dries. Book presses can sell for hundreds of dollars, but you can make your own basic version at home in 10 minutes, for around $10.
Tips:
1
You’ll need two boards that are the same size. It will need to be at least 3 inches taller than the books you’d like to make, and at least as wide. I found this pack of two cedar grilling planks for $4, but any sturdy boards will do. If you don’t mind spending a little more, cutting boards make a beautiful book press.
2
You’ll need two 6-inch long carriage bolts, as well as two washers and two wing nuts to fit the bolts. I bought them as individual pieces at a hardware store. They cost $2.50 total.
How to:
made with
(2) wooden boards
(2) 6-inch carriage bolts
pen
1
Measure the center of the board and make a mark along the short end, one inch in. Repeat on the other side.
2
Tape the two boards together so they won’t shift. Drill the marks, using a drill bit very close to the size of your bolts.
3
Insert the bolts from the bottom, then add the washers and wing nuts on top. Remove the tape.
4
The bolts will make the press unstable on the bottom, so I’m adding adhesive felt bumpers. You can stack the bumpers if needed. This package cost me $2.50.
5
To use, add a text block or book, then tighten the bolts evenly on both sides.
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Nice one, but if you put a nut on each bolt and tighten them down as much as you can it will pull the shoulders of the bolts into the bottom piece of wood and make it more stable and easier to screw the wing nuts down when in use.
I bought cutting boards just so my husband can get to work making me this
I did something very similar, but bought 2 thin chopping boards as the wood was nicely finished……I didn’t want any nasty splinters when making my books, teehee. Lee xx
You’re my type and I hope you’re feeling alright thanks for the great DIY
Love this idea and look forward to your video for making books! :)
Please consider making an ipad cover/organizer/portfolio