I don't think it's lame at all! (Although some I find more tasteful than others, but that comes down to personal preference.) I've had a handful of books rebound to varying degrees of quality. I second researching binders around you and asking if they can provide examples of past work they've done. Just because someone charges more doesn't necessarily mean they are better than the next binder. On the flip side of that coin, I wouldn't recommend doing it on the cheap and getting a quality lower than your expectations.
As Trotter mentioned, most binders won't do patterns (by hand, if I understand you correctly?). However, they may do a custom stamping if you provide them with a die. There are shops that can fashion a die for you if you provide them with an image to work off.
Also, if you poke around the threads on this site, there are some mouthwatering rebinds to be found. (LanceFormation's '38 Hobbit comes to mind.) Might give you some additional inspiration!
Thank you so much for your kind encouragement! I think I'm definitely going to go ahead with this!
I just wanted to chime in and say that I think it to be a wonderful idea, and that - imo - some of the best bookbinders around offer incredibly value for money when you think about the work and materials than go into a properly hand bound book.
If you are in the UK, a good starting point might be to speak to a member of Designer Bookbinders who are nearby to you - https://designerbookbinders.org.uk/
Thank you so much for saying so, Tom. (and don't mind me fangirling over getting a reply from one of my favorite youtubers!! :D ) I'm in the US, but I think I've found a few good options for having it rebound, though more research is needed.
I’m late to the party but I have today, 19/08/25 pickup up my 11/5/4 re bound set. They are sensational. I would highly recommend and my guy is very reasonable.
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