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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 5 to 9 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 ¼ 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.
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 book’s 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.
INTRODUCTION TO LETTERPRESS
(RELIEF PRINTING)
Learn the techniques and skills of letterpress printing at every stage,
including how to hand-set type, set up presses, printing, and finishing.
This class provides you with the opportunity to design and create projects
to keep and use, or give as gifts. Holiday cards, stationery, miniature
books, and calling cards are just a few of the projects to be explored.
Students supply their choice of papers to be used.
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. |
