Bookbinding – a set of notebooks with Rachel Ward-Sale

Ref: SSW30040

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2 places available

About this course

This course is a short weekend with a timetable variation: 10am-5pm on Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday.

Create a set of notebooks with three different structures covered in decorated paper, in a soft slip case. These versatile bindings can be used as notebooks, sketchbooks or journals, making them ideal for artists and writers, because you can never have too many notebooks or sketchbooks!

Course Description

Create a set of notebooks with three different structures in a slipcase covered in decorated paper.

Using Coptic, long stitch and sewn on tape techniques, you will handmake a set of three books in a soft paper covered slipcase. These versatile bindings can be used as notebooks, sketchbooks or journals, making them ideal for artists and writers, or to give as beautiful gifts. All materials will be provided, including decorated papers for covering the bindings and slipcase.

This practical weekend will introduce you to the materials and techniques involved in basic bookbinding. You will learn about the properties and characteristics of the materials you will be using and how to ascertain their suitability for each binding style. The skills you will acquire during the course will enable you to reproduce the techniques at home, using basic tools and equipment. There will also be an introduction to the tools and equipment involved and their correct handling.

During the weekend, you will learn how to:

- Fold paper into sections ready for sewing

- Select and prepare covering materials

- Use a variety of sewing and binding techniques

- Make a simple bespoke slipcase to house your bindings

Each process will be demonstrated to the group. Afterwards, you will be able to work on your own bindings with individual help from the tutor to produce several bindings and a slipcase.

Timetable

Timetable for 2 day, short weekend courses

Saturday, session one: 10am-1pm & 2-5pm. Please arrive by 9.45am.

Sunday, session two: 9am-1pm & 2-4pm.

Lunch and tea/coffee is included.

Course Materials

Included

  • On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials, including:
  • paper, cardboard, decorated paper, thread, adhesive and ribbon.

What students need to bring

  • Pencil (retractable), pen, rubber, scissors, craft knife, set square
  • Apron

Available to buy

  • Available from shop:
  • Pencil (retractable), pen, rubber, scissors, craft knife, set square

Additional information

Wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals. Safety boots, if specified. There may be restrictions on equipment available to students in tutor’s absence

Tutors

Rachel Ward-Sale

Rachel studied Art, Design and Bookbinding at The University of Brighton and has worked as a self-employed bookbinder and teacher for 30 years.

She is a Fellow of Designer Bookbinders and her work is represented in private and public collections including the British Library and Liverpool Central Library. She has been awarded prizes in national and international competitions.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

Courses of interest

Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.