Leather Work Class: Book Binding Workshop

Description

Making your first engraved hand coloured leather A6 pocket book, or larger A5 journal. I’ve been professionally making books for 26 years, so with such wealth of experience, I’m honoured to help guide you towards making your very own. You’ll learn some of the practical skills of binding paper to make an attractive and unique refillable, engraved and coloured leather book. I’ll introduce you to colouring the leather by using dyes and specialist paint. After polishing, we will bind in the paper using the Japanese (stab) method - just one of many techniques that allow the finished book to open completely flat - great for taking notes and sketching and, most importantly for me, refillable. After-care information will also be provided, allowing the book to be in continuous use. You’ll learn: - How to prepare and bind a leather book - Colour a pre-engraved design* - Sewing paper - Handling materials, tools, and adhesives *Due to time constraints, it's best I engrave your design before the start of the class, especially more complex images. I will be in touch via email to chat about your ideas and images, etc. There will be an abundance of high-quality decorative “end” papers for the inside covers. Bookbinding is both an art and a craft, and my approach is designed to develop both your hand skills and creativity. So, I’m thrilled to be opening up my studio for a small number of workshops this year. The cost includes all professional tools and materials, and an abundance of shortbread and tea. Suitable for beginners who are good with their hands, as well as those with some experience. This is perfect for book lovers, artists, and writers looking to learn a rich and versatile craft. Ideal personal gifts for loved ones.

What's included in the price?

A hand-coloured book with your own design engraved on the cover. Filled with over 100 sheets of 180 GSM acid-free plain paper.

Cancellation policy

Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Phoenix Handmade Books

with Craft Courses since 2025

Message the tutor

I've always been slightly obsessed with books... thou not the reading type, but the empty ones...the dusty old journal, them marbled edged Victorian ledgers, the ageing leather notebook or the beautiful sketch pad. A constant sketcher, i still carry around a pencil and pad, happily losing myself drawing (instead of finger tapping a smart phone). As bookmaker (I don't call myself a binder) I recently fell heavily for leather work, a new apprenticeship almost. After spending substantially more than the much talked about "10, 000 hours" on embossing (repoussé) soft metals, I felt it time for a fresh challenge. I started at the basement level and repeated what i did 24 years ago when I picked up my first sheet of metal to shape into a book cover I presented my work for sale since the beginning and in this world of the cheap/mass produced, I've realised there is still a small place for the individual, the actual unique 'one of a kind' piece. I carry no airs and graces and never over-precious about my work. I simply makes books. I’m looking forward to teaching., Kindest Regards Will Phoenix