Book binding photos advice

[tonysiciliano1]

I would like to create a book of about 40 self printed photos, probably in a 12x12 inch format. One possibility is using a screw post portfolio book, but I would really like a bound book. Does anybody know of a person or company that will create a bound book for me? I realize a run of "one" might limit the possibilities. Or a kit to bind your own book. Or anything else. Thanks!

[pflower]

I'm in London so can't help with specific companies, but I've done this a few times.  Look for companies that advertise themselves as binding theses. Some do pretty basic wire bound stuff but others offer  bindings with good quality leather or linen covers and they are pretty flexible.  Not cheap though.  I've done this but not to 12x12 size.  I have done a couple of books which I printed myself on A4 Hahnemuhle Photo Rag 180gm paper and had them sewn perfect bound with linen covers - the 305 is probably too thick and traditional glossy papers may prove to be too stiff.  Worked well but very expensive. 

Hahnemuhle offer their own post portfolio books but I haven't ever seen let alone used one.

Bookbinding is an incredible craft and I did once think about taking a course but frankly it's way above my skill or patience level.  I tend to go the Blurb route for specific projects.  But I am sure that you can easily find a specialist book binder who can do what you want - but be prepared to pay for it.

Good luck.

[Ferp]

I did a short course once in the hope that I could turn my pile of prints into small books.  Didn't every happen.  Very few of the techniques that craft bookmakers teach and practice are suitable, and most require you to respect the direction of the grain of the paper, which is not always possible.  It's not easy to ex-post turn prints into a book.  You really have to print with a simple binding technique in mind. 

[digitaldog]

Why not Blurb?
https://www.blurb.com

[tsinsf]

I've made several Blurb books. They are perfectly adequate press printed books, but not the same as prints that I make. That's what I want to put in a book. I am loving printing these days and need a project.