BASIC BOOKMAKING BONANZA : explained

 

BASIC BOOKMAKING BONANZA: This weeklong workshop is ideal for educators, librarians, printmakers, dabblers, etc. Whether you’re just getting started in bookmaking or want to polish or add to your skill set, you’ll enjoy the time, tools, space, and inspiration to do it. All tools and materials provided. While a bit tentative, this workshop week depends on who is interested in such a class because we would like to accommodate individual needs. Feel free to email us with questions or issues.

For up to 3 people, age 16 or better

  • Monday - Friday Bookmaking Bonanza $600
    Monday - Sunday Bookmaking Bonanza $720

  • Lunch and all materials included

  • Completing this workshop gives you access to Workspace Rental and Table Top Press Rental.

  • Current workshop calendar, or email us to request a date.

Monday : paste paper plus assemble your bookmaking toolbook

  • start by painting a stack of paste paper sheets to personalize your books; reference handout provided

  • create a toolbook filled with valuable reference items while practicing basic folding, punching, sewing techniques, and terms

  • Join this workshop only as an individual for $90.

Tuesday : field trip to Special Collections at the University of Delaware Library

  • with its world-class Special Collections Department, the UD Library offers inspiration and hands-on examination of artists’ book formats and techniques

  • in the studio, multiple binding formats will be covered, such as meander, flutter book, and accordion

Wednesday : 1 day, 1 book

  • fold, gather, punch and sew a text block with the classic bookbinding long stitch; reference handout provided

  • learn terms and materials, and add bells and whistles as you reinforce the spine before covering the book

  • assemble the cover and case in your text block using your paste papers from day 1 to complete your first project

Thursday : Coptic stitch two ways

  • both books present lovely exposed stitching on the spine and the ability to open completely flat; the reference handout provided

  • building on the previous day’s book, this single curved-needle sewing also uses folded signatures

  • ideal as an artist’s book or scrapbook, the double-needle style inspires mixing flat sheets of varying materials

Friday : clamshell box

  • bring something you would like to preserve in a clamshell box. Great for family bibles, expensive first editions, etc

  • excellent addition to your bookmaking repertoire; reference handout provided

  • making use of typical bookmaking skills, a clamshell offers added value and protection to any book or object

Saturday / Sunday

  • if you want to spend 1 or 2 days practicing what you’ve learned, you can have up to 2 days to work on a personal project or 2. We’ll be in the studio, willing to advise as you feel is necessary. Could also include a Werkman printing workshop and a brief overview of letterpress printing.