Silver Book Clasps - Make this Set of Book Clasps Yourself

Vol.I Silver and Vellum Book Clasps

As a binder I have been asked many times to fit clasps to books. The design for these clasps is a development of a very old idea and method. The fittings are made from 2mm sterling silver plated copper wire, you could be tempted to use brass as a substitute, but the verdigris produced as brass corrodes is acidic. I always used plaited vellum for these clasps for strength and durability, leather stretches and will not last nearly as long. Also I find the appearance of vellum and silver is rather attractive. The actual cost of the materials is very low, about £4.00/$7.80

You can buy new book fittings, but they are expensive and they do not have the "craftsman made" appearance of these clasps.

These clasps are perfect for larger books such as Bibles but you can also use them on much smaller books, as long as the board has a minimum thickness of 3mm.

You need no special tools to make these fittings, just the normal small hand tools any craft person might use plus a soldering iron is all that is required. Included is an up to date online supplier of Sterling Silver plated drawn wire in various diameters. Also included, a contact who is prepared to sell vellum off cuts.

This tutorial runs out to over 80 pages, that is mainly because I have illustrated every single step of the process in order to make it as fail proof as possible. Below are some pictures taken from the tutorial.

book clasps

silver book clasps solid silver book clasps

If you wish to download the manual please just click here.

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I received my equipment. Wow, the quality is astounding I don't know where in the states I could get tools made this well. The large laying press and finishing press are massive and the sewing frame is to die for. I guess old world craftmanship still lives. I am glad I bought from you instead of buying in America just to get it fast. To have the equipment (made and) delivered within 30 days was not too long to wait. Frank

I received the type holder yesterday, it actually arrived quicker than I thought it would.

Thank you for all your help and for the great customer service, really appreciate it. Bruno

The DVD's arrived last week and I have been glued to the tv screen. I have been busy sharpening my knives the way the DVD teaches, and it works! Great to have really sharp knives. Mac

Just a thank you for your excellent tutorial on clasp making -wonderful. Thanks so much. You're really generous to share your knowledge and skill with us youngsters. Tony

I had to write and thank you for your help during the last month, you guided me to a teacher near me and now I am actualy enroled on a 1 year part time bookbinding course. Thank you so much for your efforts. Ratchel

The equipment arrived safe and sound, it looks wonderful I can't wait to try it. Thank you for being so helpful. Louise

The article on calf marbling was awesome, when you get around to publishing your book, put me down for a copy. Jake

I just wanted to say thank you for being so patient with me over my choice of bookbinding press, so nice not to be subjected to the hard sell. Mary