If you consider yourself something of a crafty-type person, but have never tried your hand at bookbinding, you really should. It's a pretty relaxing task, plus you get to make some nifty stuff in the process, like a book of your own writing, a journal to give as a gift, a pocket notebook, etc.

But what tools do you need? Well, the London Centre for Book Arts has a bookbinding tool kit designed just for beginner bookbinders and craft makers. It includes several basics:

• An awl for making holes
• 6" bone folder for folding/creasing/pressing paper
• Clip-point shoe knife for cutting paper
• Brush for use with bookbinding adhesives
• 10 bookbinding needles
• 15 meters (~49.2 feet) of 100% linen thread

Get the kit for £35 (~$46 USD) at LCBA.