Common Myths About Bone Folders & Folding Tools I Stopped Believing

When I first dipped my toes into the world of bookbinding and paper conservation, I quickly became enamored with the tools of the trade. Among these, the bone folder stood out as an essential piece of equipment. However, I soon discovered that there were quite a few myths floating around about bone folders and folding tools in general. After years of experience in my workshop here in Edinburgh, I’ve sifted through the truths and fictions to uncover what’s really important. Let me share with you the most common myths I’ve encountered and why I’ve stopped believing them.

1. Bone Folders Are Just for Professionals

When I began my journey, I thought that bone folders were only meant for the professionals—those seasoned artisans who could whip up a book in the blink of an eye. I believed that unless you were a master bookbinder, you should stick to your old credit cards or other makeshift tools. However, this isn’t the case at all. Bone folders are user-friendly, and anyone can benefit from having one in their toolkit, regardless of skill level. They help create crisp folds and can be used in a variety of projects, from simple greeting cards to complex bookbinding.

💡 Clara Hensley's Rule of Thumb: Don't underestimate the power of a bone folder! Even if you're a beginner, investing in one can drastically improve your folding technique.

2. Bone Folders Are Expensive and Unnecessary

Another myth I encountered was that bone folders are costly and not worth the investment. Sure, you can find some expensive options, but I’ve come across perfectly good bone folders for around $10-$15 USD. I’ve even made my own out of scrap materials! In my experience, a quality bone folder is not just an expense; it’s an investment in the quality of your work. Using a proper tool will yield better results than fumbling with a plastic tool that can't create the same precise folds.

Type of Tool Price Range (USD) Durability Best Uses
Bone Folder $10 - $30 High Bookbinding, Card Making, Paper Crafts
Plastic Folder $1 - $5 Medium Basic Folding
Homemade Folder Free - $5 Varies Basic Projects

3. All Folding Tools Work the Same

This myth was a tough pill to swallow. In the early days, I treated all folding tools as if they were interchangeable, but I learned that is far from reality. Different materials and shapes cater to various project requirements. For instance, a bone folder is perfect for creating sharp creases and handling delicate papers, while a Teflon folder is better for projects where you want to avoid any shiny marks on your paper. Understanding the nuances of these tools has improved my work significantly.

What is the difference between a bone folder and a Teflon folder?
A bone folder is ideal for sharp creases and delicate papers, whereas a Teflon folder is great for preventing shine on your paper. They each serve unique purposes.

4. You Should Only Use Bone Folders for Folding

For the longest time, I thought bone folders had a singular purpose—folding. But as I continued to explore, I found that bone folders are versatile tools. I use mine for scoring, burnishing, and even as an aid in lifting papers without damaging them. The smooth edge allows for a variety of tasks beyond just folding, making it a multifunctional tool in my workshop.

Can I use a bone folder for scoring?
Absolutely! Bone folders are great for scoring lines before folding, which helps create sharper, cleaner edges.

5. Bone Folders Are Hard to Maintain

When I first learned about bone folders, I was under the impression that they required a lot of upkeep. I thought I’d have to polish them and treat them like fine china. In reality, they are quite low maintenance. I simply wipe mine clean after use and store them in a safe place. If you do get glue or grime on your folder, a quick wash with warm soapy water does the trick. I’ve even heard of people using a bit of mineral oil to keep the surface smooth, but I’ve never found it necessary.

6. Only Traditional Bone Folders Are Worth Using

Finally, I held onto the belief that only traditional bone folders made from actual bone were reliable. While I have a beautiful antique bone folder that I adore, I’ve come to appreciate synthetic materials as well. Modern bone folders made from plastic or Teflon can perform just as well and are often more affordable. They won’t break as easily and can be just as effective for your projects.

Are synthetic bone folders as good as traditional ones?
Yes, synthetic folders can provide similar results and often come at a lower price point. They are durable and can be a great addition to your toolkit.

Final Thoughts

As I look back at my early days in bookbinding, I can’t help but chuckle at the myths I once believed. Each one of these misconceptions held me back in some way, whether it was through hesitation to invest in tools or limiting my creativity. Now, with a better understanding of bone folders and folding tools, I feel empowered to tackle any project that comes my way. If you're just starting out, don’t let these myths stop you. Embrace the tools you have at your disposal and enjoy the journey of learning and creating.