BOOKBINDING AND PAPER STUDIO
The Bookbinding & Paper Art Studio welcomes students of all levels who have an interest in the book and paper arts. We offer multi-level classes and workshops focusing on both traditional and contemporary book structures, as well as a variety of paper decoration techniques. If you have a favorite tattered book that you have always wanted to repair, or if you are interested in designing and decorating your own blank journals and albums, we have the right level of instruction for you. Our studio is equipped with the tools and supplies that bookbinders have used for centuries to bind their books, such as presses, ploughs, and guillotines. We have Quik Prints for gold-stamping titles on books, heavy-duty cutters for book and paper, and a nineteenth century letter press with hundreds of antique fonts.
CORE CLASSES in bookbinding, book restoration, and book and paper art are conducted on an ongoing basis throughout the year, segmented into six sessions that range from 7 to 8 weeks in length. Refer to the current schedule for specific class dates, instructors, and pricing.
BEGINNING BOOKBINDING: Traditional Structures: For brand new students or even regulars who want a refresher in the basics, this structured class will cover a series of introductory level subjects. Students will learn all about the various equipment in the studio and how to use it, as well as necessary materials, supplies, resources and techniques involved in beginning bookbinding as you learn to create unique and beautiful books. Class projects include several bindings from simple pamphlets to albums and multi-section hardcover bindings. Experienced students will have an opportunity to explore more advanced bookbinding, such as advanced case bindings using leather, and modern adaptations of non-adhesive bindings. Pursuit of individual interests is encouraged and developed through class and individual projects. Beginners should contact the instructor for a list of supplies.
INTERMEDIATE BOOKBINDING: This class is ideal for the developing binder: it focuses on helping students increase awareness, skill, and independence in designing and executing bindings. Use of leather and knives is explored in depth through the creation of limp-leather, tight-back, millimeter, and leather case bindings. Students are encouraged to pursue independent projects with the instructor's one-on-one supervision.
ADVANCED BOOKBINDING: For the experienced binder who wants to be challenged at a higher level, this class is largely based on your individual interests and projects. Here is the place to explore all of your ideas, which may not have been part of more traditional classes.You may also join in class projects oriented towards advancing your skills. Advanced techniques are taught through demonstration and lectures. Past group projects have included historical bindings and gold tooling.
EXPLORING BOOK STRUCTURES: Designed for students who have some bookbinding experience, this course teaches the rudiments of making books by hand and provides techniques for refining skills. Traditional and contemporary book structures are explored, using materials that will endure over time. Text, paper, cloth, and leather are combined with decorative elements to create a variety of projects. Class projects are chosen to reflect students skills and interests. Students have access to a wide range of tools and equipment to ensure the creation of attractively designed, well-constructed books.
ARTIST BOOKS Bring your own original poetry or other written works with your ideas for graphical treatment in a book structure. We will discuss your concepts and create a plan to produce that very special artist book. Bookbinding experience is helpful but not required.
PAPERCRAFTING VINTAGE STYLE Create elegant handcrafted gifts of paper embellished with fancy vintage details. We'll take a fresh and trendy twist on traditional bookbinding techniques and do it all using basic components bought right off the shelf from our neighborhood craft store. Floral printed scrapbook papers, brass embossing stencils, ribbons, buttons, charms, beads and French-themed rubber stamps will be the inspiration for each of these artsy paper projects. We'll begin with a ribbon-tied Victorian Folding picture frame booklet. Next will be a perfect style bound journal with antique button closure, then a business card and/or stamp portfolio with a French-themed tag. Finally, we'll concoct some simple altered journals by repurposing tattered vintage book covers into funky blank books using paper labels, ribbons, tags and beads
DECORATIVE EXPOSED BINDINGS: Learn how to make decorative sewing a part of your binding expression. Add visual drama to your one-of-a-kind books by incorporating the actual sewing of a book as part of its decoration. Twists, knots, linear patterning along the spine, braided stitching, or ribbons and leather tapes all contribute to your books uniqueness. Whether you choose traditional sewing styles or interpret the techniques with a more modern twist, you will learn a wealth of powerful and fun decorative possibilities to add to your binding repertoire. These bindings offer challenges and inspiration for students at every level. We'll look at several different styles, including tacketting, chain stitches, and sewing patterns along the spines of books. You will complete several different books, depending on your experience. Basic binding experience and tools are required.
STRATEGIES FOR COMPETITION: HOW TO DESIGN AND EXHIBIT BINDINGS FOR COMPETITION Have you ever thought about exhibiting your books or maybe even entering a bookbinding competition? Our expert, award-winning instructors will walk you through the process of designing a binding, presenting it for professional submissions, and writing a book description, along with a personal artist statement. This class focuses on helping students prepare for various competitions and exhibition opportunities through presentations, discussion, and hands-on work.
EUROPEAN PAPERMAKING LABS: We'll explore the basics of pulping and pigmenting fibers, and learn the papermaker's shake, one of the secrets of good sheet formation. We'll take time for pulp painting, wet collage, and shaped sheets, and will learn couching, pressing and drying techniques. It is important to wear clothing that can get wet and messy, including water-tolerant shoes (sneakers, garden boots, etc.) The guild will provide molds and deckles, drying sheets, etc. as well as some basic pulps, but students will also learn to make their own. Essential supplies: A kitty litter pan or plastic dish pan to use as your personal vat, several old towels, large rectangular sponge, craft knife, old scissors, a large flat water-resistant surface to use in transporting damp sheets home. Bring, if you have the: old blender, small plastic pail, strainer, small paint roller with clean cover, rubber gloves, permanent pen. Supply fee: $3-5 each session, payable to the instructor.