Master the Craft of Fine Binding - available from February 2025

(There i place one left on this course for 2025)

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn and refine the art of fine binding through intensive, hands-on sessions. Over the course of ten classes, you’ll re-bind a set of books in quarter leather, develop advanced bookbinding techniques, and complete your project with traditional gold finishing and a custom slipcase.

Led by Master Bookbinder and Gold Finisher Isabelle, this course is designed for those with prior bookbinding experience who are ready to elevate their craft to the next level.

We accept only four students per year for this course, and there is just one place left for 2025.

What You’ll Learn

• Advance Leather Paring Skills
  Hone your techniques for paring and sharpening your knives, focusing on precision and achieving professional results.

• Construct a Traditional Quarter-Bound Book
  Create books with leather spines and corners, embracing a timeless and elegant 19th century binding style.

• Apply Marbled Cover and Endpapers
  Add visual appeal and elegance with beautifully marbled covers and coloured endpapers.

• Create Raised Bands
  Create raised bands for added aesthetics and a polished, professional finish.

• Step-by-Step Gold Tooling Guidance
  Receive detailed instruction on blind tooling, including the intricate technique of "running up a spine."

• Slipcase Making
  Beautifully finished books deserve a bespoke container.

Techniques Covered

Throughout the workshop, you’ll learn:

• Removing books from their original covers and cleaning spines

• Making endpapers and creating hollows

• Cutting and crafting card covers

• Attaching boards and creating bands

• Leather paring, covering, and traditional gold tooling

• Laying down endpapers and constructing a custom slipcase

Workshop Highlights

• Intensive Hands-On Learning
  Dive deep into advanced bookbinding techniques, refining your skills and expanding your expertise.

• Small Group Focus
  With a maximum of four participants per year, this workshop ensures personalised attention. Private classes or small groups of two are also available for those seeking even more tailored instruction.

• Expert Instruction
  Learn from experienced binders who guide you through each step, offering insights and professional tips to perfect your craft.

Course Details

• Prerequisites: This course is not for beginners. Some bookbinding experience is required, and acceptance is by application only.

• Class Size: Limited to 4 participants per year.

• We offer flexible learning options designed to fit your schedule. The course is 10 complete sessions, with each session running from 9:30am to 4:30pm. You can choose the frequency that works best for you, for example:

  • 10 sessions, once a week

  • 10 sessions, once a month

  • 10 sessions, every other month

  The choice is entirely yours. Whether you prefer a weekly commitment or more spaced-out sessions, we cater to your individual needs.

• No homework required.

Cost and Payment

The price for the full workshop is $4,500, which includes all tools for use in the bindery, materials, and instruction.

Payment options:

• Full or instalment options available: $4,500 total

Who Should Attend

• Seasoned Bookbinding Enthusiasts
  Ideal for individuals with prior experience in bookbinding who are eager to elevate their skills to an advanced level.

• Aspiring profession bookbinders
  Perfect for those seeking to master the intricate techniques of fine bookbinding and deepen their understanding of the craft.