Join us for a two-part class using your own reclaimed fabric to make hardcover, cloth-bound books!
This class happens in two consecutive Friday sessions:
November 10th, 6pm to 8pm
November 17th, 6pm to 8pm
In an upcycled twist on bookbinding, this is an opportunity to give beloved garments or special scraps of cloth a second life while learning to construct two hardcover books. We'll be carefully taking apart garments, learning to make our own book cloth out of them, and covering German bradel-style book covers--all resulting in two finished 5"x4.5" blank journals. This is a beginner's level course with no former experience necessary!
Session 1: Let's make specialty bookcloth--from your own favorite textile!
During this 2-hour session join textile artist Grace Rother to learn the ins and outs of reclaiming worn fabric for functional reuse. Want to extend the life of a beloved old button down? Got some funky curtains that no longer fit your decor? Favorite patterned sheets gone hole-y? We've got you. (Students will be provided with guidelines in advance about what types of fabric work best, and we'll have a few lovely extras on hand just in case.)
Once we've reclaimed our fabric we'll learn how to make it into brand new bookcloth (a special cloth type that's ideal for covering hardcover books). This is a technique that can be easily replicated at home for future projects! Student bookcloth will be left at The Bindery to dry in preparation for the next session.
Session 2: Creating hardcover books!
Students return for this 2-hour session to use their custom-made cloth to cover two small, hardcover journals using a classic German bradel exterior case, and sewn binding. Led by the Bindery's lead bookbinder, Daniel Ehn, this session will teach participants each step necessary to craft a binder's board cover, and finish it all off with their textile. A pre-sewn page block will be provided at the right size to then learn to "case in" the books.
All professional-grade materials for this session will be provided and partially prepped in advance. Students may choose to leave their books to dry in our presses overnight, or take them home for a DIY pressing (we'll give you some pointers)!
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*Masks are not required at the time of this posting, but are very welcome. This may change by the time of the class, and The Bindery reserves the right to require masks or other safety precautions at any time. Participants will be alerted to any changes prior to the workshop.
*Due to the small nature of classes and the upfront materials costs, The Bindery has a no refunds or exchanges policy. If you cannot make it for some reason, please send a friend in your stead and let us know!
