Thanks for making this much-needed video, Tim. I have received numerous messages from folks who paid in full and now cannot get a rebinder to respond to their messages. I've had a couple of awkward experiences myself. Communication is key, and it's not okay to "ghost" paying customers.
As someone who is currently getting started in rebinding, and taking local orders only at a discounted rate currently, I really appreciate this video. Gives me some great things to look at focusing on to make sure customers are comfortable in the near future.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews That is good, we should as believers try to handle these kind of things outside of the public and in private one on one with our brothers in Christ. It is sad it came to this for you.
Tim, you’re a good man. Thank you for dealing with this head on, and especially for the reminder that you review, not businesses but products. Coming from a service industry background, the idea of paying up front on a promise is insanity from my perspective, especially in an industry where months-long wait times are not unusual. I recognize that as Christians we want to trust our fellow believers, especially those who specialize in a service related to God’s Word. However, in a world of ever increasing scams, we need to be good stewards of our own resources, and recognize that even in the best of circumstances things go sideways sometimes. I deeply appreciate the recommendations on reputable rebinders. I am about to get an ESV Interleaved Journaling Bible rebound and specifically waited until your video to make a decision. Thankfully, one of your recommendations was also the one I was considering. I deeply appreciate that you use this platform responsibly.
Tim, I very much appreciate your honest depiction of the realities of Bible rebinding. I intend to have one or more of my Bibles rebound in the future and will definitely refer back to your video to ensure the best experience. Thank you for overcoming the natural discomfort to educate your loyal and casual followers - Jesus on!
I was taken on an absolute nightmare with a rebinder. That experience has helped me in my business. I don’t ever want someone going through what I went through.
A Genesis 50:20 kind of moment. You have the right attitude as a believer. While someone did you wrong, God was using it to teach you how to better minister to others.
This is great insight and advice, brother. I believe most are professing Christians, both the rebinders and those who are paying customers. We should all excel at preserving our testimony both in personal and business life. Thank you for using your platform to bring this to the forefront. It might be a little tough to hear, but it benefits both the rebinder and the customer. You did a great job maintaining balance with his video.
Tim, thank you for addressing these important topics in such a fair and honest way. Your video sheds light on areas of improvement within the Bible rebinding community while encouraging Rebinders to maintain high standards of communication, transparency, and craftsmanship. It’s clear that your intention is to uplift the community as a whole, and your balanced perspective is greatly appreciated.
Have nothing but good things to say about Neil at Resurrection rebinding. Had one done by him and waiting to send in another one in March. Excellent work and customer service all around.
This video and sage advice are definitely appreciated from a former rebinder's perspective. And both rebinders and customers should really take it seriously. One thing I think most people don't realize is that Bible rebinding is just like any other highly skilled craft. It often starts out as a hobby that I think brings most of us a lot of joy and decide to turn into a full-time venture at some point, great deal of personal sacrifice and financial risk. As we develop our skills and get more exposure, we get busier, and probably didn't think far enough ahead to realize that we had to factor in 'customer service'. Spending more time with communication often means spending less time doing the thing we love, and results in putting more hours in, thus making it feel more like a job than that hobby we once really enjoyed and could do at our leisure. For some people, added pressures and deadlines we didn't used to have are a thrill a minute. The rest of us just want to be left alone to make stuff. 😊Add to that normal, everyday responsibilities, chronic illnesses (such as was my case), and financial setbacks (also me...leather ain't cheap, ya know 😊), then it is easier than you'd think to get behind. You end up hemorrhaging money and turning a something fun and relaxing into an out-of-control nightmare, with rushing to get the piece done and it not being up to your normal standards. Unfortunately, not everyone is business savvy. Some of us fail because we don't have the first clue about how to turn our love for making things into making enough money to keep the lights on, and we can't handle all the icky things that come with it becoming a 'job'. For rebinders: communication is definitely key in this business, and keeping your customers in the loop as much as possible definitely helps soften the blow when life gets in the way. Tim knows this business better than pretty much anyone else. Listen to him. 😊 (Please forgive me for the long-winded comment. This video just struck a chord with me and is really appreciated.)
Thank you. This was very bold of you to do but you rose to the occasion and rightfully and honestly challenged these rebinders to do the right thing. If their integrity corresponds directly to the quality of their product, they should have no problem agreeing to your recommendations.
Vitaliy with SDG rebinds only requests about 25% deposit. You don't need to send your block to him till 2-3 weeks before he gets to you. Always responds to your questions. Different ways to communicate with him. I'm about few weeks out with him now. I feel very safe going with him.
I have also had two rebinds with SDG rebinds. He is the best. great communication and delivers on time as promised. His rebinds are perfect I strongly recommend Vitali.
I also had one rebound by SDG. He did a great job. I also was able to send him a bible I had had rebound by someone else just to replace the ribbons and dye the page edges (something the other rebinder hadn’t offered at the time). Again he did a great job.
Thanks for this video. I have had delays with rebinders myself. Fortunately I have been one who has gotten all my rebinds returned to me. I however had to wait well over the agreed time though. I won’t mention names here because it isn’t my intent to slander anyone. This is a topic that has been an elephant in the room for some time now. Appreciate you stepping up to bring this to light. Very needed to discuss. Thanks.
This is why I stopped rebinding. I didn’t have the time anymore. It wasn’t about the money. And you can’t have customers waiting forever. At least I don’t think that’s fair. So after I finished my last job I stopped. You have to be professional but an honest one.
Thank you for another thoughtful and charitable video. I just had an old Jerusalem Bible rebound by Resurrection Rebinding and they were fantastic to work with and the final product was beyond my expectations. I can’t recommend Neal’s work enough.
Such a challenge for those trying to get into Rebinding…. We start out totally as fun, a hobby, but quickly you find better results come from the best materials…. Then you need a hot stamp machine, and a book press, and then you want this and that and other to support the hobby …. For some, that means you must start charging for the work…. Are you good enough yet? Probably not… definitely not to the level of the pros, but I saw one guy the other day say we shouldn’t charge til the 100th rebind….. really? That’s a lot of leather. A lot of expense. I am very up front with my customers that I’m new and it’s a hobby and I agree with most others here that communication is the key. I have been taking the full payment up front and I think I WILL change that to just a deposit. I tell them don’t send any money until I have the Bible in hand and ready to order the leather. I do like having the full payment so when I order the leather I can order and pay for a bigger piece/hide and have some leftover leather for more/other projects. As one trying to grow this hobby into a side-gig biz into retirement but still in the infant stage I’m finding my dad’s advice more and more true… once you make it a business, it becomes a job and might not be near as enjoyable. I can’t stand doing record-keeping, can’t stand taking pictures, and I don’t want to own/manage a website….all required as part of the gig. #walkthewalk
I once tried to get a simple rebind & the guy said no because he only does technical rebinds. Anyways, I appreciated his honesty telling me that his price would be too much for just a simple rebind. 👍🏼
Thank you for doing this video Tim. I had a horrible experience with a binder that never did finish my project and luckily, I got my text block back. I really want a rebound but have been concerned for all of the reasons you’ve listed above.
Thank you, Tim. You're a good man. Funny thing is that I was actually just about to email you about this very same situation. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that I wasn't the only one. One year and counting for me from AE. God bless!
Thank you so much for addressing this and giving helpful tips for prospective customers in the future. Sadly, I am one of those that have experienced some ghosting recently and still out of money that was paid up front. Keep up the great reviews and informing the community here!
Not a rebinder, but a commercial printer and book binder by trade. I totally get why a rebinder would want a deposit and want to have both raw materials (new leather and such) and the books on the floor when they are ready to work. To do that putting out money before you get paid can stretch you really thin, especially if your mark up is only 20-30% on a very expensive leather. I would see why they should probably get a deposit made to secure production time and secure materials. Then upon completion payment for the balance due. There should be no reason though they need to secure materials and have the customer's Bible sitting on a shelf for months on end. The client should be told when to mail in the product and start working on it within a week or two after receiving the Bible. Once the customer pays the balance owed it should be ready to ship immediately. If you start to run behind it would be necessary to shoot over an email or make a phone call explaining the new time frame in which it will be completed. Clients should understand delays can happen - to be fair to the rebinders some customers are very unreasonable about their demands. However, months of no communication from your rebinder that you paid money too and gave them your Bible is completely unreasonable.
I am glad you’re doing this show Tim. Must be frustrating to be a pastor and have to deal with dishonest rebinders that are of questionable quality! God bless this channel!
I hate to hear this and that videos like this have to be made. I have several rebinds from ICA and love them all. I was thinking about having him do another, but this changes my mind. Thank you Tim.
Communication is always the key. Most people understand that things beyond your control can and do happen, but it's lack of knowing that creates the problems. I don't need to know what the problem is, but I do need to know that you haven't forgotten about my bible and that it's still on your radar to complete.
Great work Pastor Tim - and courageous. This story had to be told and it’s sad and unexpected that this type of behaviour is being done by what I imagine are Christians working in the rebinding business. ❤
I do rebinds as well (India) 1. I don't take a dime in advance 2. I rebind only 3 per month 3. I don't keep a Bible more than 4 days When a client is willing to pay premium pricing for their personal Bible, they deserve our best service.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews yes sir, totally agree. Not saying that it is bad. Just sharing my working method that has kept me from the issue our rebinding community is facing lately. And yes, things will be different for others because rebinding is a hobby project for me. So that's a different story.
I appreciate this video. I have been wanting to save up for a rebind but the struggles so many have been having has been discouraging. Hopefully I will be able to get that rebind one day.
@anickelsworthbiblereviews I should clarify that it was many people that I have seen recently, not the reminders, though I appreciate the need for clarity.
I remember messaging ICA Bibles and he was pretty straight forward about wait times. I appreciated that about him! It actually caused me not to do the rebind. I agree with the deposit to cover materials, then I would make someone pay the rest once completed and only send once money is secured! I like that!
I have a rebinder in Amarillo Texas and when I found him he was having a sale on rebinds (one price, no matter what size). They have a website and you enter your contact info, Bible translation and type, and condition. You then select the desired exterior and interior color and the type of leather (goatskin, calfskin or sheep), then you select type of stitching (double or single), color and number of ribbons (usually in note at the end) and then the desired Yap. They will respond with the info you entered to verify and the cost plus shipping. I have sent the Bibles I wanted rebound and initially i would send in payment. Over the course of the year and a half I've dealt with them I have had 20+ Bibles rebound even after he went back to their normal pricing (which is still about half of some of the rebinders you have mentioned. I am totally satisfied. He's not fancy, but his work is good enough for me. When you consider the cost of the Bible and the cost of the rebind, it's a bargain. He does videos of the Bibles he's rebound for me and others. Every so often he does a video of the leather he has purchased. I've even had times after watching a rebind video where I ended up changing colors and he's handled it. He has also made recommendations which have helped with decisions I've mad. I have a relationship where i can send Bibles and then make payments at the beginning of the month and it's worked out great.
Im more of a hobbyist rebinder, but i do offer my services. Im not at the level these other well known rebinders, but i do enjoy doing it. I work full time, so i don't have a lot of time to devote to it like i would like to. But i always thought everything you just talked about should have been common knowledge or common sense, but sadly it is not. I feel that, especially if I'm charging money for my services, my reputation is the most important aspect of my business, and i have a bad reputation, then i would have no business. Thanks for this video. And thanks for being honest. If a company begins to have a negative reputation, then consumers should have a right to know.
Thanks for doing the right thing, not the easy thing, and make this video. Definitely needed to be said. Love your videos and helped me find Floresh Bibles, highly recommend them!
I unfortunately have been “ghosted” by a rebinder recently after putting the $150/down. I won’t say who here in the Comments but he’s fairly well-known. I won’t be doing business with him again. Nice video Tim.
It sounds like a common problem: someone’s who is an expert at something may not be good at running a business as an expert. Those are two wildly different skillsets.
I only have three premium Bibles. And I don't have any rebinds, aside from one already made up that was for sale by AA leather on their site. Personally, I don't see any need to have another rebind honestly, and the more I see of them, the more it seems like it's more of a chase for luxury than something done to increase the life or durability of the Bible. I can understand it if someone likes a certain text block, buys a $20 leathersoft version, and wants something premium that'll last longer. And I can understand it if someone has a family heirloom or a Bible filled with notes that they want to save from falling apart. But all too often, on most of these channels when I see rebinds reviewed, people don't talk about that stuff. Instead they talk about goatskin this, and waxy pull up that. Oh look at the corner work and look at this wonderful color. Look at the ribbons, etc. etc. etc. I think it's become primarily a luxury and money-making venture, and it has also produced a lot of people who get into the rebinding hobby in order to make money, that don't have sound business plans. And then they have a million customers, they can't keep up with demand, and then THIS happens. Honestly, I wish they would all have their own channels where they advertise their own work, to be perfectly honest. I know it's ironic to say because without these well-known Bible reviewers, most of us wouldn't know the rebinders, but it's gotten to the point where I think they use these review channels to reach a customer base that many of them just can't handle. This is probably going to be an unpopular opinion but that's just what I think. If I ever feel the need for a rebind, I'm just going to do what I did with AA leather.... I'm going to buy one that the rebinder already has in stock.
This is regarding two well established rebinders, not upstarts that got a review and got overwhelmed. And if people what to collect bibles and they can, why not. We collect all sorts of things.
I paid ICA $450 for a Bible rebind in July and have been trying for a couple months to get in touch with him, but to no avail. Then this video drops today and it seems that it is a pervasive issue. Very frustrating indeed.
My understanding is that ICA & AE scammed dozens of people and do not plan to complete their end of the deal. I’d try to get your Bible block back even if he won’t offer a refund.
I’d be careful calling it a scam. A scam is intentional. I believe these two gentlemen had setbacks and that led to this mess. They just need to communicate.
That happened last year for me from ICA…in the knick of time i was able to get back by christmas but i paid the extra to fast track and still took months longer. Based on what i was told that life kinda got in the way. But agree communication would have been nice.
Thank you so much Tim for posting this video. I have a Bible rebind coming up from Redbird Bibles and he just asked me to send my bible. I also have one coming up from Rock Wall Bibles in March do recommend them as well?
Thanks for this video I know it had to be tough. I had a rebind done a while back and the rebinder hit all your marks but when I got it back it was very poorly done. What would you do in this situation?
Rex Rebinds was kind enough to me that when he was very behind on my remind every time I messaged him he responded and apologized. After a year plus he returned my deposit when asked for so I was able to get a rebound from someone else.
Sent a Bible to one of the mentioned reminders last spring for a rebind, and I don't think I'll ever send anything to be rebound again. I'm happy it wasn't a family heirloom and just an inexpensive new bible. I'll just spend the money at Schuyler, Cambridge, or R.L. next time.
Hi Tim, All this rebinding is fine and good. Who would you recommend for a Bible restoration? The Bible in question has been in the family for 83 years and is in need of some TLC. Including the gold on red, whatever you call it going around the text block. I am getting the impression that most of these rebinders only rebind newer Bibles. Thanks
I completely understand that customers may not be satisfied with the time rebinds take, but no good comes from ghosting your customers. In my experience these behaviors are always indicative of a negative result. Unfortunately, as they are likely to happen more and more as startups flood the market, the good rebinders will take a hit.
I had no idea customers had to send the Bible to the rebinder long before they are actually ready to work on it! I could see maybe if they said, "You are the next customer in line." But on an open timeframe? That would freak me out, especially if it was my only or my main Bible, or something of great sentimental value, like one from parents/grandparents. Thanks for this information. I'm sure you'll get some complaints. But it was the right thing to do.
Sometimes you just got to grab the thorns. Very insightful and fair. Watching from 🇬🇧 any rebinders on this side of the pond who can offer the variety and level of skill shown here year in year out?
Had a rebinder do two project with zero issue, paid for a third and haven’t heard from him in over a year. Out the block and the cash. Still a bad taste in the mouth 12months later.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews Do you know anyone who lives in NY that can help me with that? I don’t know if you reviewed the LSB Inside Column Reference, Hardcover on your channel. I just had one, but I don’t think the cover will last.
I have encountered rebinders that are far too optimistic with their lead times. It's better to err on the conservative side. If your current wait time is realistically 5 months, tell your customer 6 or 7 months as a cushion for when life happens. It's far better to under promise and overdeliver then over promise and underdeliver.
A couple of hundred dollars? I was unaware it cost that much to rebind a Bible. I paid 10 bucks for a clearance Bible once, and that was the most I ever paid for a Bible. Oh, maybe a little more for my Spanish Bible with shipping, which is also the only Bible I have with gilded edges. I don't get it though, the words are the same. I understand that you want to find a Bible that you like to use, I can't read fine print and I prefer single column, but geez, hundreds of dollars?
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews Full disclosure Tim, My HarperCollins NRSV Study Bible is paperback and too big to use easily in paperback, in my estimation anyway. I paid $1.93 for it at a Goodwill a while back. It has a funny smell, like it had been stored in a closed up place for a while and I don't really like it but use it all the time. I am not going to get the SBL because of the ghosting, but I can't even spring for a new HarperCollins, and that is just like 40 bucks or something. It is all the same words. I don't need an expensive Bible. What it says and whether I agree with it or not is why I read it. Again, single column with decent sized print for these older eyes. Those are my preferences, not deal breakers though. I have a hardback 4th edition New Oxford annotated coming after X-mass. It is supposed to be in "Very Good" condition, 5 bucks plus shipping. I bet it isn't in as good a shape as they said, but if not I will just keep searching for another. Till then the stinky Harper Collins is fine.
I checked a few random book binding websites, and that's a typical price for rebinding books in leather, regardless of what book we're talking about. (The obvious exception is if it's cheap leather or bonded leather.)
@@MAMoreno I just don't see the point, even if I were a believer. I just can't make myself spring for things if what I have is adequate, I have trouble making myself buy new stuff. And any Bible you want can be found used online, and they might not all be perfect, but they are more than good enough. Used to be there were always Bibles at the Goodwill. Now Goodwill sells them online, the ones of any real value. I will admit a premium Bible is a cool thing, but the words are all the same.
I have never been presented with a scenario where I needed to rebind. I have been collecting bibles for 30 years or so and the Bible that I read daily is the redesigned Schuyler Quentel. When I see videos encouraging people to rebind a perfectly fine cover, I think - what is the point of this? More often than not, the rebind costs 2 to 3 times the original cost of the Bible itself. Just get an Allen or a Schuyler and be done with with. As a retired person, I don't see EVER needing a rebind. Just my opinion.
Well, the same can be said for "collecting" Bibles. That runs a chill through me every time I read it. The main purposes for rebinding would be 1) Bibles that have sentimental value, such as ones passed down in the family, 2) a Bible that somehow got damaged, or 3) a Bible with tons of notes that you prefer to keep, but don't want to have to transfer it all to a new Bible.
@@Yesica1993 Apples and Oranges, in my opinion. How many Bibles do you think Nickels has. Tim Wildsmith once said on a video that he had "hundreds and Hundreds.". I don't vcollect to tear off the cover and spend $350 to recover it. Silly.
@@mikelilley Which I have pointed out as well. At least they do it for their channels. Bibles are not to "collect." They are to use. It's not "apples and oranges." It's the same thing.
If the business does not take a credit card then I would not do business with them . Credit cards purchases can be disputed. Also Check the Better Business Bureau .
When I say this, I'm trying to be objective and helpful. It's probably a good idea to report negative experiences with a company to the BBB but don't believe positive ratings the BBB says about a company because that seems to be the default. Even if the company doesn't actually exist - or worse: spoofs email from the BBB to scam people (phishing) - even that company has a positive evaluation on the BBB's site. (This is from my own experience with tracking down a few issues from 15 years ago to as recently as a few weeks ago for a client.)
Yikes! I had no idea this was even an issue. I would have assumed these wise points were standard practices for any business. What a disgrace and shame to the Name of Jesus Christ.
Down vote for one reason as a business owner you have to be able to make a profit and you have to be able to pay your bills. My simple question would be what does this guy know about running a business? If somebody wants a product they agree to the terms nobody is forced to give a business money.I think this guy is getting a little above himself.
Thank you so much for this video!!! 🥰🤍 I’ve not bit the bullet on a rebind for my childhood Bible for various reasons: the location of the rebinder (States away), the timeline for turnaround is 6+ months out, and the full payment/cost up-front. 😬😔
Thanks for making this much-needed video, Tim. I have received numerous messages from folks who paid in full and now cannot get a rebinder to respond to their messages. I've had a couple of awkward experiences myself. Communication is key, and it's not okay to "ghost" paying customers.
As someone who is currently getting started in rebinding, and taking local orders only at a discounted rate currently, I really appreciate this video. Gives me some great things to look at focusing on to make sure customers are comfortable in the near future.
A giant vote for Logos Rebinding. I've had a couple done by him and the process was flawless, product was perfect.
I agree I had Daniel rebind and absolutely no issues and great communication
I have had 2 rebinds from Daniel. Top notch work and such a good guy. I recommend him every time.
About time a large reviewer channel has finally done this video, excellent job, God Bless brother
I tried to handle it without needing to.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews very well said,
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews That is good, we should as believers try to handle these kind of things outside of the public and in private one on one with our brothers in Christ. It is sad it came to this for you.
Tim, you’re a good man. Thank you for dealing with this head on, and especially for the reminder that you review, not businesses but products. Coming from a service industry background, the idea of paying up front on a promise is insanity from my perspective, especially in an industry where months-long wait times are not unusual. I recognize that as Christians we want to trust our fellow believers, especially those who specialize in a service related to God’s Word. However, in a world of ever increasing scams, we need to be good stewards of our own resources, and recognize that even in the best of circumstances things go sideways sometimes. I deeply appreciate the recommendations on reputable rebinders. I am about to get an ESV Interleaved Journaling Bible rebound and specifically waited until your video to make a decision. Thankfully, one of your recommendations was also the one I was considering. I deeply appreciate that you use this platform responsibly.
Tim, I very much appreciate your honest depiction of the realities of Bible rebinding. I intend to have one or more of my Bibles rebound in the future and will definitely refer back to your video to ensure the best experience. Thank you for overcoming the natural discomfort to educate your loyal and casual followers - Jesus on!
I was taken on an absolute nightmare with a rebinder. That experience has helped me in my business. I don’t ever want someone going through what I went through.
A Genesis 50:20 kind of moment. You have the right attitude as a believer. While someone did you wrong, God was using it to teach you how to better minister to others.
This is great insight and advice, brother. I believe most are professing Christians, both the rebinders and those who are paying customers. We should all excel at preserving our testimony both in personal and business life.
Thank you for using your platform to bring this to the forefront. It might be a little tough to hear, but it benefits both the rebinder and the customer. You did a great job maintaining balance with his video.
Tim, thank you for addressing these important topics in such a fair and honest way. Your video sheds light on areas of improvement within the Bible rebinding community while encouraging Rebinders to maintain high standards of communication, transparency, and craftsmanship.
It’s clear that your intention is to uplift the community as a whole, and your balanced perspective is greatly appreciated.
Have nothing but good things to say about Neil at Resurrection rebinding. Had one done by him and waiting to send in another one in March. Excellent work and customer service all around.
This video and sage advice are definitely appreciated from a former rebinder's perspective. And both rebinders and customers should really take it seriously. One thing I think most people don't realize is that Bible rebinding is just like any other highly skilled craft. It often starts out as a hobby that I think brings most of us a lot of joy and decide to turn into a full-time venture at some point, great deal of personal sacrifice and financial risk. As we develop our skills and get more exposure, we get busier, and probably didn't think far enough ahead to realize that we had to factor in 'customer service'. Spending more time with communication often means spending less time doing the thing we love, and results in putting more hours in, thus making it feel more like a job than that hobby we once really enjoyed and could do at our leisure. For some people, added pressures and deadlines we didn't used to have are a thrill a minute. The rest of us just want to be left alone to make stuff. 😊Add to that normal, everyday responsibilities, chronic illnesses (such as was my case), and financial setbacks (also me...leather ain't cheap, ya know 😊), then it is easier than you'd think to get behind. You end up hemorrhaging money and turning a something fun and relaxing into an out-of-control nightmare, with rushing to get the piece done and it not being up to your normal standards. Unfortunately, not everyone is business savvy. Some of us fail because we don't have the first clue about how to turn our love for making things into making enough money to keep the lights on, and we can't handle all the icky things that come with it becoming a 'job'. For rebinders: communication is definitely key in this business, and keeping your customers in the loop as much as possible definitely helps soften the blow when life gets in the way. Tim knows this business better than pretty much anyone else. Listen to him. 😊
(Please forgive me for the long-winded comment. This video just struck a chord with me and is really appreciated.)
Thank you. This was very bold of you to do but you rose to the occasion and rightfully and honestly challenged these rebinders to do the right thing. If their integrity corresponds directly to the quality of their product, they should have no problem agreeing to your recommendations.
Vitaliy with SDG rebinds only requests about 25% deposit. You don't need to send your block to him till 2-3 weeks before he gets to you. Always responds to your questions. Different ways to communicate with him. I'm about few weeks out with him now. I feel very safe going with him.
I have 2 rebinds by SDG and his work and professionalism can’t be beat.
I have also had two rebinds with SDG rebinds. He is the best. great communication and delivers on time as promised. His rebinds are perfect I strongly recommend Vitali.
I also had one rebound by SDG. He did a great job. I also was able to send him a bible I had had rebound by someone else just to replace the ribbons and dye the page edges (something the other rebinder hadn’t offered at the time). Again he did a great job.
Thanks for this video. I have had delays with rebinders myself. Fortunately I have been one who has gotten all my rebinds returned to me. I however had to wait well over the agreed time though. I won’t mention names here because it isn’t my intent to slander anyone. This is a topic that has been an elephant in the room for some time now. Appreciate you stepping up to bring this to light. Very needed to discuss. Thanks.
This is why I stopped rebinding. I didn’t have the time anymore. It wasn’t about the money. And you can’t have customers waiting forever. At least I don’t think that’s fair. So after I finished my last job I stopped. You have to be professional but an honest one.
Miss your work!
Thank you for another thoughtful and charitable video. I just had an old Jerusalem Bible rebound by Resurrection Rebinding and they were fantastic to work with and the final product was beyond my expectations. I can’t recommend Neal’s work enough.
Such a challenge for those trying to get into Rebinding….
We start out totally as fun, a hobby, but quickly you find better results come from the best materials…. Then you need a hot stamp machine, and a book press, and then you want this and that and other to support the hobby …. For some, that means you must start charging for the work…. Are you good enough yet? Probably not… definitely not to the level of the pros, but I saw one guy the other day say we shouldn’t charge til the 100th rebind….. really? That’s a lot of leather. A lot of expense.
I am very up front with my customers that I’m new and it’s a hobby and I agree with most others here that communication is the key.
I have been taking the full payment up front and I think I WILL change that to just a deposit. I tell them don’t send any money until I have the Bible in hand and ready to order the leather.
I do like having the full payment so when I order the leather I can order and pay for a bigger piece/hide and have some leftover leather for more/other projects.
As one trying to grow this hobby into a side-gig biz into retirement but still in the infant stage I’m finding my dad’s advice more and more true… once you make it a business, it becomes a job and might not be near as enjoyable. I can’t stand doing record-keeping, can’t stand taking pictures, and I don’t want to own/manage a website….all required as part of the gig.
#walkthewalk
I once tried to get a simple rebind & the guy said no because he only does technical rebinds.
Anyways, I appreciated his honesty telling me that his price would be too much for just a simple rebind. 👍🏼
Thank you for doing this video Tim. I had a horrible experience with a binder that never did finish my project and luckily, I got my text block back. I really want a rebound but have been concerned for all of the reasons you’ve listed above.
Thank you, Tim. You're a good man. Funny thing is that I was actually just about to email you about this very same situation. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that I wasn't the only one. One year and counting for me from AE. God bless!
Thank you so much for addressing this and giving helpful tips for prospective customers in the future. Sadly, I am one of those that have experienced some ghosting recently and still out of money that was paid up front. Keep up the great reviews and informing the community here!
Thank you for a timely reminder for ALL of us Pastor Tim. You handled an uncomfortable subject well. 👍
Great video. Thank you for bringing up this topic and providing important commentary on the subject.
Thanks Tim for your honesty and integrity even when it’s hard!! I always enjoy and appreciate your videos! Keep up the good work.
This is much needed advice if I ever decide to get a Bible rebind. Thank you, sir, Merry Christmas to you and your family!!
I have four Resurrection Rebinds because Neil runs a very transparent business.
Not a rebinder, but a commercial printer and book binder by trade. I totally get why a rebinder would want a deposit and want to have both raw materials (new leather and such) and the books on the floor when they are ready to work. To do that putting out money before you get paid can stretch you really thin, especially if your mark up is only 20-30% on a very expensive leather. I would see why they should probably get a deposit made to secure production time and secure materials. Then upon completion payment for the balance due. There should be no reason though they need to secure materials and have the customer's Bible sitting on a shelf for months on end. The client should be told when to mail in the product and start working on it within a week or two after receiving the Bible. Once the customer pays the balance owed it should be ready to ship immediately. If you start to run behind it would be necessary to shoot over an email or make a phone call explaining the new time frame in which it will be completed. Clients should understand delays can happen - to be fair to the rebinders some customers are very unreasonable about their demands. However, months of no communication from your rebinder that you paid money too and gave them your Bible is completely unreasonable.
I am glad you’re doing this show Tim. Must be frustrating to be a pastor and have to deal with dishonest rebinders that are of questionable quality! God bless this channel!
Tim, thanks so much for making this video and for being a voice for us -the customer-
I hate to hear this and that videos like this have to be made. I have several rebinds from ICA and love them all. I was thinking about having him do another, but this changes my mind. Thank you Tim.
Communication is always the key. Most people understand that things beyond your control can and do happen, but it's lack of knowing that creates the problems. I don't need to know what the problem is, but I do need to know that you haven't forgotten about my bible and that it's still on your radar to complete.
💯
This
Looks pretty serious Tim. I am about to get a Bible rebound, but not before I listen to this.
Despite this being a difficult video perhaps, I believe this was very good information. Thank you.
Great work Pastor Tim - and courageous. This story had to be told and it’s sad and unexpected that this type of behaviour is being done by what I imagine are Christians working in the rebinding business. ❤
I do rebinds as well (India)
1. I don't take a dime in advance
2. I rebind only 3 per month
3. I don't keep a Bible more than 4 days
When a client is willing to pay premium pricing for their personal Bible, they deserve our best service.
That’s great but, there’s nothing wrong with a wait time and taking a deposit.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews yes sir, totally agree. Not saying that it is bad. Just sharing my working method that has kept me from the issue our rebinding community is facing lately.
And yes, things will be different for others because rebinding is a hobby project for me. So that's a different story.
Great video Tim. It should open many people’s eyes. Have a blessed day and Merry Christmas
I appreciate this video. I have been wanting to save up for a rebind but the struggles so many have been having has been discouraging. Hopefully I will be able to get that rebind one day.
2. Not so many.
@anickelsworthbiblereviews I should clarify that it was many people that I have seen recently, not the reminders, though I appreciate the need for clarity.
I remember messaging ICA Bibles and he was pretty straight forward about wait times. I appreciated that about him! It actually caused me not to do the rebind. I agree with the deposit to cover materials, then I would make someone pay the rest once completed and only send once money is secured! I like that!
He has fallen off the edge of the earth. It’s a mess.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews That's sad to hear!
Thank you for making this video. These sort of things need to be in the light.
Great words and great advice Tim! Thanks for all you do.
I have a rebinder in Amarillo Texas and when I found him he was having a sale on rebinds (one price, no matter what size).
They have a website and you enter your contact info, Bible translation and type, and condition. You then select the desired exterior and interior color
and the type of leather (goatskin, calfskin or sheep), then you select type of stitching (double or single), color and number of ribbons
(usually in note at the end) and then the desired Yap. They will respond with the info you entered to verify and the cost plus shipping.
I have sent the Bibles I wanted rebound and initially i would send in payment. Over the course of the year and a half I've dealt with them
I have had 20+ Bibles rebound even after he went back to their normal pricing (which is still about half of some of the rebinders
you have mentioned. I am totally satisfied. He's not fancy, but his work is good enough for me. When you consider the cost of the Bible and
the cost of the rebind, it's a bargain. He does videos of the Bibles he's rebound for me and others. Every so often he does
a video of the leather he has purchased. I've even had times after watching a rebind video where I ended up changing colors
and he's handled it. He has also made recommendations which have helped with decisions I've mad. I have a relationship where i can send Bibles and then make payments
at the beginning of the month and it's worked out great.
Thank you for the heads up. I was considering a rebind.
Tim! Thank you for this video. I have a Bible that I’ll be having rebound this next year and this was timely.
Resurrection Rebind, PTL, and Flourish are great to work with (have rebinds from all three)
Also a big fan of Cherry Hill
Thanks Tim! I'd like to think one day I could afford a rebind. It's good to know reputable rebinders!
Im more of a hobbyist rebinder, but i do offer my services. Im not at the level these other well known rebinders, but i do enjoy doing it. I work full time, so i don't have a lot of time to devote to it like i would like to. But i always thought everything you just talked about should have been common knowledge or common sense, but sadly it is not. I feel that, especially if I'm charging money for my services, my reputation is the most important aspect of my business, and i have a bad reputation, then i would have no business. Thanks for this video. And thanks for being honest. If a company begins to have a negative reputation, then consumers should have a right to know.
Great advice here brother! Very important stuff.
Thanks for doing the right thing, not the easy thing, and make this video. Definitely needed to be said. Love your videos and helped me find Floresh Bibles, highly recommend them!
I unfortunately have been “ghosted” by a rebinder recently after putting the $150/down. I won’t say who here in the Comments but he’s fairly well-known. I won’t be doing business with him again. Nice video Tim.
I’d file a claim with your payment method.
@ yes sir. I did. I am getting a charge back done. I hate to do that but I’ve tried so many times.
You should say who they are to protect others
Your the best Tim keep up the great work my Brother
It sounds like a common problem: someone’s who is an expert at something may not be good at running a business as an expert. Those are two wildly different skillsets.
Common problem in business yes. In this circle, no. But to your point an emphatic yes to most needing help with the business side.
I only have three premium Bibles. And I don't have any rebinds, aside from one already made up that was for sale by AA leather on their site. Personally, I don't see any need to have another rebind honestly, and the more I see of them, the more it seems like it's more of a chase for luxury than something done to increase the life or durability of the Bible. I can understand it if someone likes a certain text block, buys a $20 leathersoft version, and wants something premium that'll last longer. And I can understand it if someone has a family heirloom or a Bible filled with notes that they want to save from falling apart.
But all too often, on most of these channels when I see rebinds reviewed, people don't talk about that stuff. Instead they talk about goatskin this, and waxy pull up that. Oh look at the corner work and look at this wonderful color. Look at the ribbons, etc. etc. etc. I think it's become primarily a luxury and money-making venture, and it has also produced a lot of people who get into the rebinding hobby in order to make money, that don't have sound business plans. And then they have a million customers, they can't keep up with demand, and then THIS happens.
Honestly, I wish they would all have their own channels where they advertise their own work, to be perfectly honest. I know it's ironic to say because without these well-known Bible reviewers, most of us wouldn't know the rebinders, but it's gotten to the point where I think they use these review channels to reach a customer base that many of them just can't handle.
This is probably going to be an unpopular opinion but that's just what I think. If I ever feel the need for a rebind, I'm just going to do what I did with AA leather.... I'm going to buy one that the rebinder already has in stock.
This is regarding two well established rebinders, not upstarts that got a review and got overwhelmed. And if people what to collect bibles and they can, why not. We collect all sorts of things.
A vote for Praz'n Kajun he's awesome!
I paid ICA $450 for a Bible rebind in July and have been trying for a couple months to get in touch with him, but to no avail. Then this video drops today and it seems that it is a pervasive issue. Very frustrating indeed.
My understanding is that ICA & AE scammed dozens of people and do not plan to complete their end of the deal. I’d try to get your Bible block back even if he won’t offer a refund.
I’d be careful calling it a scam. A scam is intentional. I believe these two gentlemen had setbacks and that led to this mess. They just need to communicate.
That happened last year for me from ICA…in the knick of time i was able to get back by christmas but i paid the extra to fast track and still took months longer. Based on what i was told that life kinda got in the way. But agree communication would have been nice.
Thank you so much Tim for posting this video.
I have a Bible rebind coming up from Redbird Bibles and he just asked me to send my bible. I also have one coming up from Rock Wall Bibles in March do recommend them as well?
Absolutely. I put a video featuring Rock Wall on the end screen.
Thanks for this video I know it had to be tough. I had a rebind done a while back and the rebinder hit all your marks but when I got it back it was very poorly done. What would you do in this situation?
Tell them. Most of them will stand behind their work.
Rex Rebinds was kind enough to me that when he was very behind on my remind every time I messaged him he responded and apologized. After a year plus he returned my deposit when asked for so I was able to get a rebound from someone else.
Sent a Bible to one of the mentioned reminders last spring for a rebind, and I don't think I'll ever send anything to be rebound again. I'm happy it wasn't a family heirloom and just an inexpensive new bible. I'll just spend the money at Schuyler, Cambridge, or R.L. next time.
There are lots of great Rebinder options, but I can understand your frustration.
Appreciate this video. It's a lot of money for some of us
Thanks for making this video. This was much needed.
Hi Tim, All this rebinding is fine and good. Who would you recommend for a Bible restoration? The Bible in question has been in the family for 83 years and is in need of some TLC. Including the gold on red, whatever you call it going around the text block. I am getting the impression that most of these rebinders only rebind newer Bibles. Thanks
Floresh.
I’ve had good luck with resurrection rebinding and 2moores bible rebinding
I completely understand that customers may not be satisfied with the time rebinds take, but no good comes from ghosting your customers. In my experience these behaviors are always indicative of a negative result. Unfortunately, as they are likely to happen more and more as startups flood the market, the good rebinders will take a hit.
AA Leather in Jacksonville, FL is wonderful to work with and does incredible work.
I had no idea customers had to send the Bible to the rebinder long before they are actually ready to work on it! I could see maybe if they said, "You are the next customer in line." But on an open timeframe? That would freak me out, especially if it was my only or my main Bible, or something of great sentimental value, like one from parents/grandparents. Thanks for this information. I'm sure you'll get some complaints. But it was the right thing to do.
Sometimes you just got to grab the thorns. Very insightful and fair. Watching from 🇬🇧 any rebinders on this side of the pond who can offer the variety and level of skill shown here year in year out?
You make great points and with fairness
AGREED! Simple & Timeless
Great info! Plain & simple, just treat people how you want to be treated if the roles were reversed.
I’ve done 2 rebinds and had meh experiences with both. I don’t know that I’ll ever do one again.
With the craftsmanship or the business experience?
Had a rebinder do two project with zero issue, paid for a third and haven’t heard from him in over a year. Out the block and the cash. Still a bad taste in the mouth 12months later.
Is it one of the two?
Hello!
Where can I get a good hardcover rebinding for my hardcover bible and that will last a good amount of time?
Simple and Timeless with Jeremy Strang.
@ thank you 🙏🏾
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews Do you know anyone who lives in NY that can help me with that? I don’t know if you reviewed the LSB Inside Column Reference, Hardcover on your channel. I just had one, but I don’t think the cover will last.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviewsI asked that because I want it to be done as soon as possible.
Thank you🙏🏾
I don’t know of anyone in New York.
Instead of rebinding I like to buy Schuyler or Cambridge Bibles.
Which have both had their own serious quality control issues.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviewsthat’s unfortunate!
Thanks for posting
I have encountered rebinders that are far too optimistic with their lead times. It's better to err on the conservative side. If your current wait time is realistically 5 months, tell your customer 6 or 7 months as a cushion for when life happens. It's far better to under promise and overdeliver then over promise and underdeliver.
A couple of hundred dollars? I was unaware it cost that much to rebind a Bible. I paid 10 bucks for a clearance Bible once, and that was the most I ever paid for a Bible. Oh, maybe a little more for my Spanish Bible with shipping, which is also the only Bible I have with gilded edges. I don't get it though, the words are the same. I understand that you want to find a Bible that you like to use, I can't read fine print and I prefer single column, but geez, hundreds of dollars?
Custom work is very expensive in any field.
@@anickelsworthbiblereviews Full disclosure Tim, My HarperCollins NRSV Study Bible is paperback and too big to use easily in paperback, in my estimation anyway. I paid $1.93 for it at a Goodwill a while back. It has a funny smell, like it had been stored in a closed up place for a while and I don't really like it but use it all the time. I am not going to get the SBL because of the ghosting, but I can't even spring for a new HarperCollins, and that is just like 40 bucks or something. It is all the same words. I don't need an expensive Bible. What it says and whether I agree with it or not is why I read it.
Again, single column with decent sized print for these older eyes. Those are my preferences, not deal breakers though. I have a hardback 4th edition New Oxford annotated coming after X-mass. It is supposed to be in "Very Good" condition, 5 bucks plus shipping. I bet it isn't in as good a shape as they said, but if not I will just keep searching for another. Till then the stinky Harper Collins is fine.
I checked a few random book binding websites, and that's a typical price for rebinding books in leather, regardless of what book we're talking about. (The obvious exception is if it's cheap leather or bonded leather.)
@@MAMoreno I just don't see the point, even if I were a believer. I just can't make myself spring for things if what I have is adequate, I have trouble making myself buy new stuff. And any Bible you want can be found used online, and they might not all be perfect, but they are more than good enough. Used to be there were always Bibles at the Goodwill. Now Goodwill sells them online, the ones of any real value.
I will admit a premium Bible is a cool thing, but the words are all the same.
I have never been presented with a scenario where I needed to rebind. I have been collecting bibles for 30 years or so and the Bible that I read daily is the redesigned Schuyler Quentel. When I see videos encouraging people to rebind a perfectly fine cover, I think - what is the point of this? More often than not, the rebind costs 2 to 3 times the original cost of the Bible itself. Just get an Allen or a Schuyler and be done with with. As a retired person, I don't see EVER needing a rebind. Just my opinion.
It can be a hobby. Sort of like customizing anything we enjoy.
It's like getting a custom paint job on a 68' Camaro. Drives the same but looks sweet and makes you want to drive it more.
Well, the same can be said for "collecting" Bibles. That runs a chill through me every time I read it. The main purposes for rebinding would be 1) Bibles that have sentimental value, such as ones passed down in the family, 2) a Bible that somehow got damaged, or 3) a Bible with tons of notes that you prefer to keep, but don't want to have to transfer it all to a new Bible.
@@Yesica1993 Apples and Oranges, in my opinion. How many Bibles do you think Nickels has. Tim Wildsmith once said on a video that he had "hundreds and Hundreds.". I don't vcollect to tear off the cover and spend $350 to recover it. Silly.
@@mikelilley Which I have pointed out as well. At least they do it for their channels. Bibles are not to "collect." They are to use. It's not "apples and oranges." It's the same thing.
real talk
Thanks bro.
I had a bad experience with one. I'm sure they're not all like the one I paid.
Maybe it's the time of year with everyone ordering during the holidays
This has been an issue for months.
If the business does not take a credit card then I would not do business with them . Credit cards purchases can be disputed. Also Check the Better Business Bureau .
When I say this, I'm trying to be objective and helpful. It's probably a good idea to report negative experiences with a company to the BBB but don't believe positive ratings the BBB says about a company because that seems to be the default. Even if the company doesn't actually exist - or worse: spoofs email from the BBB to scam people (phishing) - even that company has a positive evaluation on the BBB's site. (This is from my own experience with tracking down a few issues from 15 years ago to as recently as a few weeks ago for a client.)
Yikes! I had no idea this was even an issue. I would have assumed these wise points were standard practices for any business. What a disgrace and shame to the Name of Jesus Christ.
🌟🔥🌹🔥🌟
Huh? Just buy a new Bible. They’re really not that expensive.
Why rebind? Just buy a new bible…
People customize new homes, new cars etc, this is nothing new.
Down vote for one reason as a business owner you have to be able to make a profit and you have to be able to pay your bills. My simple question would be what does this guy know about running a business? If somebody wants a product they agree to the terms nobody is forced to give a business money.I think this guy is getting a little above himself.
What does this guy know about running a business. Ha ha…I’m just gonna let you live with this comment.
Thank you so much for this video!!! 🥰🤍
I’ve not bit the bullet on a rebind for my childhood Bible for various reasons: the location of the rebinder (States away), the timeline for turnaround is 6+ months out, and the full payment/cost up-front. 😬😔
There are lots of options.