How do you bind a book without a binding machine?

Binding a book without a binding machine can be done using various manual methods. Arrange the sheets of paper in the order you want them in your book. Fold the stack of sheets in half to create a crease. This fold will be the center of your book. Cut a piece of cardstock or heavy paper for the cover. It should be slightly larger than the pages to allow for overhang. Fold the cover in half, creating a crease. This fold should match the fold of your stacked pages.

Open the cover and apply glue to one half of the inside. Place the folded pages into the glue, aligning the creases. Press down to secure the pages to the cover. Make sure the edges are aligned. Trim any excess paper from the edges of the cover to match the pages with binding machine. If you want, you can decorate the cover using art supplies, fabric, or any other materials you prefer.

Let the book dry thoroughly, ensuring that the pages are securely attached to the cover. Open the book and use a bone folder or the back of a spoon to crease the spine. This helps the book to open and close more easily. For added durability, you can reinforce the binding with a strip of fabric or tape along the spine.

This method creates a simple, hand-bound book. While it may not be as polished as professionally bound books with binding machine, it's a cost-effective way to create your own bound documents or personal projects.