This project was first conceived as an experiment, when I had just begun bookbinding. Its main value to the wider world is that it provides an end to end, illustrated description of three similar binding styles. If you're a beginning bookbinder, and want a complete tutorial, follow the ribbons to see three basic binds from end to end.
Although the description focuses on leather-bound books, you can substitute cloth or paper coverings if you don't (like me) live near a tannery.
2005: As I have learned more about bookbinding, I've come to realise that I left some things out of these binds. I've revised the descriptions to include these things, and to give a perspective of the (slightly) more experienced binder I have become. I expect I'll be doing so again in the future. All additions will look like this paragraph, and will be dated.