comicscansms wrote:
I know with Smyth, I can't remove ads or add a ToC, can I do that with hand sewing? And is one stronger and more durable? Any tips you may have would be greatly appreciated! 

If you ask the bindery, they may be able to tip in a TOC for you even with Smythe/hand-sewn books.  I think H&R has done that for fellow forum members.