Bookbinding Short Course
Course description
Course overview
Explore the art of bookbinding in this one-day workshop at Chelsea College of Arts, designed for complete beginners who want to learn how to create beautiful, handcrafted books. Taught through a combination of demonstrations, practical exercises and guided instruction, this course will introduce you to essential bookbinding techniques and the use of specialist tools.
By the end of the course, students will have mastered four different book structures: three styles of single-section booklets and the Japanese stab binding technique. These versatile bindings are ideal for presenting your artwork, creating sketchbooks or making personalised gifts.
Students should finish the course with practical skills, finished projects and the confidence to continue exploring bookbinding.
Who this course is for
This course is designed for anyone with an interest in learning a new creative skill, whether you're an artist, designer, craft enthusiast or someone simply looking for a fun and creative way to spend the day.
You don't need any specific skills or experience to take part - just an eagerness to learn and a passion for handmade crafts. The course is ideal for individuals who want to:
- Experiment with paper-based techniques for presenting their work or ideas
- Create unique sketchbooks, journals, or handmade gifts
- Explore a new hobby in a supportive and relaxed environment
Key information
Topics covered
- Introduction to bookbinding techniques: learn the fundamentals of paper folding, cutting and sewing using specialist bookbinding tools
- Pamphlet stitch binding: create a simple yet versatile book structure ideal for sketchbooks or journals
- Japanese stab binding: master this decorative and functional binding technique, perfect for unique gifts or personal projects
- Practical application: explore how these techniques can be used to present artwork, create sketchbooks or craft handmade books at home
- Tools and materials: understand the essential materials and tools for bookbinding, all provided for use during the workshop
Learning outcomes
- Confidently fold and manipulate paper using professional bookbinding tools
- Construct four types of book structures: three different styles of simple booklet stitch and the Japanese stab binding
- Understand the fundamental principles of bookbinding techniques, including accurate measuring, cutting and sewing
- Identify and use basic bookbinding materials and tools
- Apply these techniques to create handmade books for personal projects, sketchbooks or gifts
- Gain inspiration and practical knowledge to experiment with bookbinding independently at home
- Digital badge and certificate of attendance.
Materials
- Notebook and pen
Tutor
Gen Edelmann
A designer, maker and educator, specialising in graphic design, editorial design and exploring creativity. Gen has been working in higher education since 2016 and currently teaches analogue and digital design skills on the Graphic Design programme at UAL colleges Camberwell and Chelsea. Gen’s approach to design is a blend of physical and digital making, utilising a combination of analogue and digital experimental techniques to develop ideas.Book a course
Loading