About
In this class you will learn how to create your own unique journals or sketchbooks using the coptic style binding, one of the oldest Western bindings. Student will make a one-of-a-kind book, learning the construction from scratch, including how to make a text block, create your own book covers, and sew a flat-lying spine. Student will walk away from this class with greater knowledge about the history of this binding style and obtain the skills to make more of your own book.
Key Information
Who is this workshop for?
Students of all levels and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our online programmes.
How many people can attend?
15 places are available.
What dates/times do I attend?
Thursdays, 7, 14, and 21 May 2026, 17:30 – 20:00 GMT.
What materials do I need?
- 6 sheets of A3 (12×18 inches) sketching/drawing/cartridge/printer paper
- Waxed linen thread, minimum 5m or yards
- Book board or grey board, 1-2mm in thickness. Alternately, students may use wooden covers. The wood will need to be trimmed to the appropriate size and holes will need to be drilled for sewing.
- Decorative paper for the cover
- Bookbinding PVA glue, see example
- A medium sized coarse brush to apply the glue
- A metal ruler, at least 50 cm (24 inches)
- Craft or snap blade knife
- Water jar
- A small spray bottle for water
- A pair of scissors
- A4 or A3 Self-healing mat
- Phone book or old textbook for punching holes – please do not use a
book you care about as it will sustain punctures in the process. - Bookbinding awl
- 4 Curved bookbinding needles. Student may use straight needles; we will learn how to curve straight needles in the course
- A bone folder
Optional: - 45 degree drafting triangle or set square
- Book weight or binder clips for pressing book cover
Online Learning
How do I attend the online class?
This class will take place on Zoom, an online meeting platform. A link for joining the Zoom meeting will be in your confirmation email after booking.
What if I have questions during the workshop?
This will be a small workshop; Students will be able to ask questions via chat or unmuting themselves.
Students will also have access to our online learning platform, Thinkific, where we share supplementary content.
I live in a different timezone. Can I still attend?
We encourage you to attend the course in real time to really benefit from instruction; however, if you are unable to attend live due to the difference in time you can catch up via recordings on our online learning platform, Thinkific. These recordings are available for a limited time after the course.
Recordings cannot be purchased separately if the course is fully booked or if the course has already started.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
What if I need to change or cancel my booking?
No refunds, unless cancelled by the School. If you cancel up to 1 week before the workshop starts, we can offer a transfer to another workshop of equivalent value, subject to availability.
Tutor Biography
Janiece Murray explores traditional techniques and arts including gilding, geometry, bookbinding, and making and painting with handmade watercolors. She received her BA in Visual Art from Brigham Young University and her MA in Traditional Arts from the (then) Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts. Janiece continues to learn and share her findings with others.
