A simple Japanese binding that looks advanced (Tortoise Shell)

In this tutorial, I show you how to create the "tortoise shell" Japanese bookbinding (kikkō toji), a beautiful and decorative variation of the traditional 4-hole binding pattern (this is part 3/4 of my series on Japanese bookbinding patterns). Step by step, you’ll learn how to follow the stitching pattern and create this elegant geometric design on both the front and back of your book. This binding is perfect for beginners who already understand the basics and want to improve their technique, while making more visually striking handmade notebooks. If you’re new to Japanese bookbinding, start with the 4-hole binding and noble binding tutorials on my channel, then continue with this pattern as your next step. Watch part 1 (4-hole binding) here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ayxpE0N2qM&list=ULxiVu34rtURk Watch part 2 (noble binding) here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=nYJkHWSaMt8&list=ULxiVu34rtURk Watch part 4 (Hemp leaf binding) here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=UsgR97jeBUU&list=ULxiVu34rtURk Japanese bookbinding playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ayxpE0N2qM&list=PL_mNX1eQb4y6xZG_ZHUKUzfgBrY5TKYS3 Here are the templates that you can use and adapt according to the size of the books you wish to make: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WDhee24k259dau3ljY8z5M-ERiDwJfFX/view -------------------- Find some of the products that I use for bookbinding & paper crafts here: https://amzn.to/3NewXdA - This is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy through this links, I earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! -------------------- Connect with me here: Blog (DIY and travel, in German): https://missredfox.de Shop (handmade notebooks, stationery & paper gifts): https://missredfox.etsy.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_missredfox_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missredfox Pinterest: https://pinterest.de/missredfox -------------------- Chapters: 0:00 intro 00:00:12 tortoise shell Japanese bookbinding (kikkō toji overview) 00:00:40 pattern explained (4-hole + extra holes) 00:01:32 how to calculate thread length (a guide) 00:02:05 start stitching 00.06:29 how to finish the binding 00:07:19 finished tortoise shell binding result 00:07:41 next step: Hemp leaf binding 00:07:54 thank you / outro -------------------- About this channel: Welcome to missredfox Paper Art, a channel dedicated to bookbinding for beginners, DIY notebook making, and creative paper crafts. Here you’ll find step-by-step bookbinding tutorials including Japanese stab binding, coptic binding, and easy bookbinding techniques you can do at home. Learn how to start bookbinding, discover the best bookbinding tools and materials, and follow beginner-friendly guides to create your own handmade notebooks, journals, and sketchbooks. I also share DIY stationery ideas, aesthetic paper crafts like origami and papercuts, and easy paper craft tutorials for beginners. From handmade notebooks and journals to creative paper projects, each video is designed to be simple, practical, and accessible - even if you have no experience. If you’re interested in bookbinding at home, paper crafts for beginners, and aesthetic DIY projects, this channel will help you learn new skills and create beautiful, handmade pieces. Do you love cozy, aesthetic, and hands-on creativity? Then this channel will help you slow down and enjoy the process of making something by hand. ✨ Subscribe and start your journey into paper art with my bookbinding tutorials, DIY notebook ideas, journal making, and paper craft inspiration - no experience needed! -------------------- Music: "This little happy royalty free music is all about having some fun!" by frequentlyaskedmusic (Luca Tomassini), licence from depositphotos by vistaprint, file ID 412257164 #bookbinding #japanesestabbinding #bookbindingforbeginners #diynotebook #papercrafts #bookbindingtutorial #stationerylover #missredfoxpaperart #japanesebinding