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Lebanon, Pennsylvania

Every book deserves a binding that lasts generations

Hand-stitched hardcovers, archival repairs, and bespoke journals — crafted one signature at a time in my Lebanon workshop.

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20+
Years of Practice
Decades of refining traditional binding techniques passed down through generations.
100%
Handcrafted
Every stitch, fold, and spine is formed by hand — no shortcuts, no machines.
500+
Books Bound
From family heirlooms to rare editions, each volume receives individual attention.

What I Do

Binding services tailored
to your needs

From restoring a cherished family Bible to creating a one-of-a-kind journal, every project is approached with the same care and precision.

Hardcover Bookbinding

Custom case bindings with choice of cloth, leather, or paper cover. Perfect for thesis projects, limited editions, and special publications that deserve to endure.

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Archival Restoration

Careful repair of damaged spines, loose signatures, and deteriorating bindings. Using conservation-grade materials to preserve your books for future readers.

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Custom Journals & Albums

Hand-bound notebooks, sketchbooks, and photo albums in materials selected to match your vision. Available in a range of sizes and paper stocks.

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Scrapbook & Memory Books

Preserve your most precious moments in a professionally bound album. Ideal for weddings, graduations, memorials, and family history projects.

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Specialty Bindings

Japanese stab binding, Coptic stitch, pamphlet binding, and other historical techniques adapted for contemporary needs and aesthetic preferences.

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Consultation & Advice

Not sure which binding style suits your project? I offer guidance on materials, techniques, and care — helping you make the right choice for your book.

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Ivan Martin's bookbinding workshop with tools and materials
20+
Years crafting
books by hand

The Binder

A quiet craft,
done with intention

I'm Ivan Martin, and I've spent over two decades mastering the art of bookbinding in my workshop here in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. What began as an appreciation for old books has grown into a practice rooted in patience, precision, and respect for the materials.

Every book that comes through my door — whether a fragile family heirloom or a brand-new manuscript waiting for its first binding — receives the same unhurried attention. I work primarily with traditional methods: hand-stitched signatures, linen thread, acid-free materials, and covers chosen for both beauty and durability.

Archival Quality Materials selected for longevity — acid-free papers, lignin-free boards, and conservation-grade adhesives.
Hand-Stitched Every binding is sewn by hand using traditional techniques that allow books to open flat and endure years of use.
Local & Accessible Based in Lebanon, PA — welcome to visit the workshop or arrange a consultation in person.
Individual Care No assembly lines. Each project is treated as a unique piece, discussed and crafted specifically for you.

How It Works

From conversation to
finished binding

A straightforward process that keeps you involved at every stage.

01

Consultation

Share your vision — whether it's a restoration, a custom binding, or a special journal. We'll discuss materials, style, and timeline.

02

Material Selection

Choose from a curated selection of papers, cover materials, threads, and hardware. I'll recommend options suited to your project's needs.

03

Handcrafted Binding

Your book is sewn, padded, trimmed, and finished by hand in my Lebanon workshop. Each step is deliberate and measured.

04

Delivery

Pick up your binding in person or arrange shipment. I include care instructions so your book stays beautiful for years to come.

Client Words

Trusted by individuals
and institutions alike

A few notes from people who've entrusted their books to this craft.

"

Ivan restored my grandmother's 1920s cookbook — the one my family has passed down through four generations. He treated it with such care, and it looks as though it could last another hundred years.

Sarah M.

Lancaster, PA

"

I commissioned a leather-bound journal for my wife's birthday. The craftsmanship is extraordinary — you can feel the quality in every detail. She hasn't put it down since.

David R.

Harrisburg, PA

"

We brought several fragile volumes from our special collections to Ivan for conservation binding. His knowledge of archival materials and traditional techniques is genuinely impressive.

Margaret L.

York, PA

Get in Touch

Let's discuss
your project

Whether you have a specific request or just want to explore possibilities, I'd love to hear from you. Reach out by phone, email, or stop by the workshop.

Workshop

2411 S 5th Ave
Lebanon, PA 17042

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Find the Workshop

Visit us in
Lebanon, Pennsylvania

The workshop is located on South 5th Avenue. Drop-ins are welcome during business hours, or call ahead to arrange a consultation.

Workshop Hours

Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday Closed
Is this your business?This is my business