This is an excellent introduction to the varied forms of Japanese bookbinding. As with so many other crafts in Japan, it is both like and very unlike matching Western craft.
First, there is the wide variety of different binding styles. Some are very distinctive. In the accordion and 'flutter' books, the first and last pages are bound to the covers. The rest of the pages are fan-folded, either one long strip or sheets pasted together. Other bindings, whether Chinese, Korean, or uniquely Japanese in style, tie or glue the pages into a more Western stack. The end of this book shows traditional outer covers for books, partial or complete boxes. The are made uniquely for each volume or set, to give it additional protection.
The tools, materials, and techniques are laid out clearly. The authors show first show the traditional craft, as it has been practiced since the Heian era (ca. 1000 AD). They also show how modern materials can be used instead of or in addition to the older ones. The technique for each binding or box is spelled out in clear pictures and text.
Clear technique is what makes this book. It gives the scholar a good understanding of how a master artisan would prepare or repair each artifact. It also gives the home crafter the ability to adapt classic techniques to modern uses, from keepsake albums to collections of a child's art. The structure of most Japanese books is simple enough for a child to imitate with some kind of success, even though the book's examples approach museum quality. With a little thought, the techniques can be adapted to almost any level of skill.
This is book is very enjoyable, even if you just read it. If you go ahead and try some of the techniques shown, you'll enjoy it even more. You may even get results that you'll enjoy for years to come.
//wiredweird