Hello, and welcome to Sketcher’s Book Bindery.
I’m Lily Sketcher, the (only slightly) manic genius behind all your favourite rebinds.
✧ How Sketcher’s Book Bindery Began
In 2022, fresh out of high school, I found myself working in a second-hand clothing store. On paper, it might sound quirky and fun, but in reality? It was a daily loop of sorting clothes while 70’s hits played on repeat. Slowly but surely, I felt myself slipping into monotony.
Craving a far away world I could escape into, I picked up Strange the Dreamer, the first book I’d read since childhood. That was the first spark.
Over the next few years, I cycled through various jobs — retail, hospitality, fruit picking, support work. While each one taught me something, I constantly felt exhausted and unfulfilled. The traditional 9-to-5 life just didn’t fit.
In January 2024, I stumbled upon a bookbinding video on TikTok. With no more crochet projects on the go, I decided to give it a try. What started as a hobby quickly became a passion. It wasn’t long before rebinding books became my newest (and strongest) creative obsession.
Then in July 2024, I lost my childhood pony, Jaffa. My best friend and constant companion. Her passing shifted everything. I knew something had to change, I had to make the most of the life she spent years shaping for me. I scraped together every cent, quit my job, prepaid a little rent, and used what I had left to buy supplies.
In December of that year, I sold my first book. The next day, my second. I lay on the living room floor and cried. I had done it. I was home, surrounded by my horses, the wild beauty of New Zealand, and the sound of native birds - working with my hands, creating something meaningful. For the first time, I felt genuinely happy. I felt an overwhelming, addicting sense of pride for myself and my work.
Running a small business isn't always smooth. Some weeks are slow, things get lost in the post, and I still forget to eat. But every moment is worth it. I wouldn't trade this little life for anything.
✧ Where (and How) the Magic Happens
Every book is hand-bound in my tiny house library - once my teenage home, now transformed into a cozy A-frame bookbinding studio. (A tour is coming soon on TikTok!)
I do my best to support fellow small businesses when sourcing materials, though occasionally I have to turn to Amazon. I’m working on finding better alternatives, I promise.
There’s always something playing in the background while I bind - whether it’s a TV show or an audiobook. As I write this, I’m watching Lost… and yes, I’m confused too. (Update from two months later, what the f*ck?)
✧ What’s Next for Sketcher’s Book Bindery
Oh, the plans I have!
- My dream is to release new designs and collections — to one day see shelves filled with rebinds that I’ve lovingly crafted.
- I also want to branch out into bookish accessories: magnetic leather bookmarks, booksleeves, and whatever else my hands can make.
- Collaborating with my favourite bookish influencers is definitely on the wishlist — not just to grow the business, but for the pure joy of it.
- But my deepest ambition? To learn the art of book conservation and restoration. I dream of one day apprenticing with a master bookbinder, learning the craft in the old way — knowledge passed hand to hand, mind to mind.
YouTube tutorials are great, but some things are just meant to be taught face-to-face.
