Question About Making A Templet

[RichLee]

Hi, all.

So, I want to start making book covers but I'm not sure how big to make the templet. If I am going to use tooling leather to put in some art work, how much larger than the actual book cover should my templet perimeter be to have room for stitching/lacing?

Thanks for any advice,

-Rich

[artycpt]

It depends on the thickness of the leather you are using. A general rule I follow is that my stitching will be 1/8" from the edge with about another 1/8" on the inside of the stitches so I general add about 1/4" to each of the sides. I also adjust the overall length depending on the thickness of the leather so that it will open and close without issue. What fits tight when the book is open may not close properly.

It also depends on whether or not I am making a three peice cover where the front back and binding are all seperate peices or if it is a one piece.

Try taking the book and making a template out of poster board then add a little to each side to account for the different thickness of the cover material.

It is always a trial and error with me and if I make one and it is too snug I remake the pattern a little bigger and try again.

[RichLee]

Thanks. I appriciate that advice. I'll see what I can get work for me!