Hello, my name is Susan Green. Since 2008 I've made finely crafted books bound with traditional skills and meticulous attention to detail. I now work from the studio in the garden of my home in Dorset on the south coast of England.
Honouring natural materials and using traditional bookbinding techniques, I bind books which are beautiful yet practical and, above all else, a pleasure to use and cherish for years to come. My Memory and Wedding Guest Books, Sketchbooks and Journals are designed with simplicity, refinement and tactile enjoyment in mind. With an eye to making heirlooms for future generations, all materials and techniques are archival.
I'm a selected member of Find a Maker by CRAFTFestival, "a curated collection of the finest makers working in Britain today" and the Crafts Council Directory. I'm also a member of the Heritage Crafts Association. I'm extremely proud to make books for heritage, hospitality and design clients, as well as thousands of individuals and families across the world.
The Bound by Hand Ethos >
Are you planning a wedding, celebrating an anniversary, throwing a retirement party or commemorating a special person? A personalised Memory Book or Wedding Guest Book is the perfect way to make memories.
You can choose your own colour combination and have a special dedication printed on the titlepage to personalise your book. You might prefer a guest book to collect handwritten contributions, or a memory book designed specifically for sticking in inclusions such as photographs, cards and loose leaves.
(My bespoke service is also available for leather Journals and Sketchbooks, ideal as a special gift for your beloved's birthday.)
I have been making bespoke books for delighted clients all over the world since 2008, and I'll work with you every step of the way to ensure your special book is perfect. There are no hidden costs and I welcome no-obligation enquiries.
My Bespoke Options >
UK orders deliver free using Royal Mail tracked and / or signed for services for your peace of mind. I also ship worldwide with standard and express options (any international shipping overages will be reimbursed).
With a commitment to sustainability, your orders are well-protected with packaging that you can reuse, recycle or home-compost as you prefer.
I offer gift delivery direct to your loved one, and can include a handwritten note with your message to make their experience extra special.
For the quickest service choose from the Ready to Ship Collection. Click below for delivery costs and timescales.
Delivery & Returns >
You'll find digital downloads to make your new hobby or professional development as easy and enjoyable as possible in my Bookbinding for Beginners collection.
I also offer one-to-one online mentoring via Zoom to creatives of all disciplines who want to expand their existing practice into book form. Everyone is welcome, whether you're a professional, a student or making for your own pleasure.
Artist's books, photobooks, exhibition displays, swatch and sample books offer exciting avenues for exploring ideas and expanding your creative vision.
One-off sessions or an ongoing arrangement are available. You'll get notes, free resources and a recording of your session.
Find out more >
This blog post suggests 10 Ways to Use a Mini Journal in your daily life for mindfulness and creativity. Its prompts draw on ideas from artists, poets, writers, business coaches and psychologists.
What do those professional bookbinding terms mean? Can I use any kind of glue? Where do I find waxed linen thread? Do I need special paper? Is that awl as good as the one I already have? I hear you. I was you.
