Abstract

This article reports on a bookmaking process that explores the typeface anatomy to create interesting book designs. The study focuses on the interplay of traditional Chinese bookbinding methods with the craft of die-cutting, folding and layering. There are two parts to this study: First, this article discusses traditional Chinese bookbinding methods and experimental book design methods. Then, this article extrapolates from two experiments. It discusses the ways in which the handmade experimental book might make use of traditional Chinese bookbinding methods. In experiment one, the intention is to explore, understand and combine different Chinese bookbinding methods to create new book designs. Experiment two utilizes Chinese bookbinding methods, the craft of die-cutting, folding, layering and typeface anatomy to create an experimental book form. This article will reflect upon the journey, the challenges, the design process, as well as the results of the study.