Our Story
You believe every book tells a story. Even the ones that aren't "classics."
At JesterCat Binding Co., we exist to help people like you honor the books that matter most—whether it's a worn-out favorite, a family recipe collection, or a manuscript that deserves to become something beautiful.
Because if it's a classic to you, it deserves to be treated like one.
Founded in 2023 and based in Bozeman, Montana, JesterCat Binding Co. is a small, independent bindery dedicated to making the ancient art of bookbinding accessible to everyone. We believe beautiful books shouldn't be reserved for museums or the wealthy—they should be for anyone who has a story worth preserving.
Handmade craftsmanship without the gatekeeping.
We use traditional bookbinding techniques combined with practical, affordable materials to create books that are both beautiful and built to last. From custom rebindings to book repairs, print & bind services, and DIY kits—every project is approached with care, creativity, and the belief that your books deserve better.
No pretension. No "archival-quality only" limitations. Just honest, handmade work that honors your stories without breaking the bank.
Our clients trust us with their most meaningful projects—dissertation bindings, worn-out childhood favorites, family recipe books, and the novels they've read until the covers fell off. We also teach workshops and offer DIY kits, because we believe anyone who wants to try bookbinding should have that opportunity.
Meet the Maker
Jess
Bookbinder, Instructor, & Founder
Jess came to bookbinding through the most unexpected path: working in a library, watching the bindery team with fascination, and then falling down a TikTok rabbit hole that changed everything.
Largely self-taught (with an MLIS and a lot of determination), Jess brings a practical, accessible approach to bookbinding that demystifies the craft. From teaching workshops to creating DIY kits to custom binding passion projects, Jess's work is rooted in the belief that beautiful books shouldn't be gatekept—they should be for everyone.
When she's not in the bindery, you'll find her binge-watching K-dramas, experimenting in the kitchen, reading (of course!), or being supervised by two cats named after Polish foods: Kashka (oatmeal) and Makowiec (Mako for short, a poppy seed roll).
Oh, and she speaks Mandarin, which has absolutely nothing to do with bookbinding but is a fun fact nonetheless.
The name? "Jester" was Jess's high school nickname. Add two cats, a love of books, and a whimsical mascot named Piero (short for Pierogi), and JesterCat Binding Co. was born.
