Those are my favorite books to make ... those raised bumps are called 'bands' or 'cords.' They can either be 'true' or false bands. True raised cords are a function of sewing the book block around the cords, and then applying the leather directly to the spine of the book. False bands are created by gluing strips of leather or pieces of cord to a stiff piece of bristol board and then creating a standard case binding (where you make the cover separate from the book block).

Unfortunately, I don't know of any good resources for simple instructions, but I'm sure that you can find information on raised cord binding in any good book on traditional binding.

As for leather, I love leather bound books, but frankly, the paring that is necessary is something that takes a lot of practice -- and something that I have very little patience for. I've found a wonderful alternative -- Hollanders carries kangaroo leather that is already pared thin, and you use it exactly as you would use bookcloth -- no paring necessary. Hollanders is at www.hollanders.com. Prices for the kangaroo are a bit cheaper than goat or calf, mainly because it is Grade II leather (a few scratches or scars, not perfect).

Any other questions, give a yell!

Ann
www.annkingman.com