Ever wondered how a blank book comes together, page by page and stitch by stitch? Want to create a sketchbook that’s made to last and ready for whatever you want to put on its pages?
In this 4-hour hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of hand bookbinding while creating your own archival mixed media sketchbook. You’ll learn how to prepare and fold paper, sew the pages into a book block, build a linen-covered case and bring everything together using traditional bookbinding techniques.
We’ll start by exploring the tools, materials and basic principles behind hand bookbinding before preparing your pages. You’ll learn how to find the grain of the paper, fold and collate your sheets, and sew them together using a needle and thread. We’ll then glue and reinforce the spine with mull and headbands before preparing the cover from linen and boards.
Once the book block and cover are ready, you’ll learn how to case in the book and use a makeshift book press to bring everything together. You’ll leave with your own hand-sewn mixed media sketchbook, ready to fill with drawings, paintings, notes or whatever else you want to put on the page.
Skills required: None! This workshop is beginner-friendly and no previous bookbinding experience is required.
The price includes all necessary materials, tools and lots of fun!
Note: Your finished sketchbook will measure approximately 7 × 5 × 1.5″. Feel free to bring your favourite mixed media tools, such as markers, fountain pens, watercolours or oil paints, to try out in your new sketchbook.
Published booking admission: CAD $129 plus taxes. Booking and availability apply to each dated offering; any multi-session course fee covers its booked course.
Saturday, October 24
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Sharpen · 950 Queen Street West
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