Making Books School

About this course

The programme introduces core bookbinding methods through guided making, covering pamphlets, Japanese stab bindings, concertinas, single-section and round-back case bindings, and exposed spine bindings. Participants also construct a Solander box and are introduced to foil-blocking, which creates metallic effects on covers and other surfaces using a process related to letterpress. The course focuses on producing each structure by hand while developing familiarity with the techniques used in traditional book construction.

What you'll learn

• Construct pamphlets, Japanese stab bindings and concertinas
• Make single-section case bindings, exposed spine bindings and round-back case bindings
• Build a Solander box
• Apply introductory foil-blocking techniques to book covers and other surfaces
• Use specialist bookbinding tools and equipment

Is this course right for you?

The course is labelled Beginner and is intended as an introduction to foundational bookbinding techniques. Participants work through several structures and a box in guided studio-based sessions, with opportunities to make each item by hand.

Before you go

• All tools and materials are provided.
• Completion qualifies participants to become members and access the facilities for independent projects.