Abstract: An apparatus for binding at one or more sets of materials includes at least one stitch and a fastener. Each set of materials has a first side which extends along a first axis. The stitch is secured adjacent to the first side with a portion of the stitch extending away from the first side to define an opening between the stitch and the first side. The fastener includes first and second elongated members which each have a pair of opposing ends. One end of the first elongated member is connected to or integrally formed with one end of the second elongated member. The first elongated member is capable of being passed through the opening between the stitch and the set of materials. The other ends of the first and second elongated members are capable of being detachably secured together to bind the sets of materials together. The apparatus may include a cover having a spine extending along a second axis with a front and a back cover piece connected to the spine along the second axis.