Core Rulebook with more robust binding?


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I'm considering buying a new core rulebook, mostly due to the fact that the binding on mine is coming apart. I have the PDF and use it on my tablet, but it's not the same as an actual rulebook The CRB is one (along with UE and APG) that I always bring with me whenever I play or run.

Are there plans for such a book, perhaps a leather-bound version, or just one with a library binding?


Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Superscriber; Pathfinder Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber

You could always buy a new copy, drill small holes along its edge, then thread the binding yourself with some strong waxed twine.

I did this with an old gaming strategy guide and I couldn't believe how strong a good cross stitch could be!


I've never heard of this cross stitch with waxed twine thing. You actually drill holes in the binding and then put the twine through the holes?

That doesn't destroy the book?


Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Superscriber; Pathfinder Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber

Mind you, I've only done it once, and with a much thinner paperback book, but it worked like a charm.

Attempt it at your own risk, as it may well depend on the skill of the crafter as well as the quality of materials and advice.

Webstore Gninja Minion

If you drill the holes right at the crease between the spine and the front cover where it's flexible, then use waxed thread and a solid stitch, you could probably DIY.


Having owned the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 6th printings of the CRB*, I would definitely pay extra for a Smyth-sewn copy. Alas, I fear I am in the minority. Maybe if we get a deluxe edition some day...

* In fairness, none of the bindings failed. I gave my 1st printing copy to a friend when I got the 3rd printing, and I still have the rest.

Edit: I did have my copy of Champions 4E (the Big Blue Book) rebound when the binding gave out...I've been paranoid about the binding of large hardbacks ever since.


Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Superscriber; Pathfinder Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber
Lilith wrote:
If you drill the holes right at the crease between the spine and the front cover where it's flexible, then use waxed thread and a solid stitch, you could probably DIY.

Thanks for the link. I can just imagine someone trying to melt candle wax over their twine and wondering what they must be doing wrong and why their book is beginning to look like a hot mess.


Ravingdork wrote:
Lilith wrote:
If you drill the holes right at the crease between the spine and the front cover where it's flexible, then use waxed thread and a solid stitch, you could probably DIY.
Thanks for the link. I can just imagine someone trying to melt candle wax over their twine and wondering what they must be doing wrong and why their book is beginning to look like a hot mess.

You can also get beeswax bricks and run your thread through that—pretty common for a lot of binding projects (and some sewing projects too). Helps keep the thread from being tangled.


bugleyman wrote:
Edit: I did have my copy of Champions 4E (the Big Blue Book) rebound when the binding gave out...I've been paranoid about the binding of large hardbacks ever since.

Wow. I still have my copy of the BBB! My binding is fine and I used the HELL out of it. To be fair though this is my third one as I gave my older copies away to friends when they got hooked on the game.


ShinHakkaider wrote:
Wow. I still have my copy of the BBB! My binding is fine and I used the HELL out of it. To be fair though this is my third one as I gave my older copies away to friends when they got hooked on the game.

It really seems that game books are very hit and miss. The binding 1E UE is generally considered to be terrible, but I never had a problem with mine.


bugleyman wrote:
ShinHakkaider wrote:
Wow. I still have my copy of the BBB! My binding is fine and I used the HELL out of it. To be fair though this is my third one as I gave my older copies away to friends when they got hooked on the game.
It really seems that game books are very hit and miss. The binding 1E UE is generally considered to be terrible, but I never had a problem with mine.

EXACTLY! Up until about 6 years ago I still had my original copy of UA from (85-86?) and it was beat to hell from use but the spine was still intact. Granted a few of people I knew who got theirs around the same time and later had theirs fall apart.

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