Visit Edinburgh: Beginners Bookbinding Class

Take home a little bit of Scotland: A 3-hour bookmaking workshop.



3.5 hours Class size 1 to 6 guests    

  £65 - £85 (£65 for A6 notebook; £85 for A5 journal) (PayPal Pay in 3 available)
Edinburgh Activities
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Craft
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Paper Craft & Ink
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Book Binding
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Kids activities Experience Gifts
This class require only a few days notice
I’m very flexible on dates, so if you’ve a group of two or more you’re most welcome to book a “private class”. as long as the desired date have have no other attendees signed in. (please give a few alternatives)
Most classes now start at 10am.
Join me for a morning * in this three hour workshop designed with the visitor to Scotland in mind. Most materials used are Scottish. (only the twine is manufactured elsewhere!)
Scottish Wool, Wood & Hide
If you’ve any questions please feel free to ask.
Craft a one-of-a-kind notebook using a beautiful selection of locally sourced materials. You'll have the chance to work with authentic Harris Tweed from the Outer Hebrides, sustainable leather from Aberdeenshire (vegan alternatives are available - please advise) all paired with locally sourced 180gsm ivory paper. This workshop is designed with a relaxed early start to fit perfectly into a busy festival schedule, allowing you to enjoy your morning coffee and local snacks whilst you make. (* if you’d prefer a afternoon class -3 hours - please request a private class - minimum two attendees)
I’ll guide you through each part of the process, sharing insights into the rich history of this traditional craft. You'll gain practical skills in a supportive setting that's ideal for beginners, ensuring you feel comfortable and inspired throughout.
  • Hand-bind your notebook – Learn the foundational techniques of bookbinding from start to finish.
  • Select your materials – Choose from a range of Scottish textiles and sustainable leathers to personalise your work.
  • Enjoy local flavours – Relax with morning tea/coffee and a variety of delicious snacks produced in Scotland…
By the end of the morning, you'll have mastered a new skill and created a practical keepsake that captures the spirit of your visit. You'll continue your holiday with a sense of accomplishment and a beautiful handmade journal to document your travels.
Please note: If you have a group of three or more, it's possible to arrange a custom date to suit your schedule, excluding Sundays.
What you'll get
All materials and tools to make your very own Harris Tweed and leather A6 notebook or A5 Journal.
Knowledge required
None
What to bring
Enthusiasm, willingness to learn and a smile
Suitable for

This class is great for individuals and couples as well as for a date idea, birthday or hen do.

Suitable for adults, and kids (minimum 10 years old).

An adult must accompany any attending kids, and must pay for a separate ticket.

This experience would also be a cool gift for her, gift for mum, Father's Day gift or gift for couples.

Location

Edinburgh Palette The “art” building - Studio B 215 Edinburgh Palette, 151 London Road, Edinburgh

HOW TO FIND MY STUDIO Studio B2.15 Edinburgh Palette St. Margarets House 151 London road Edinburgh EH7 6AE * (*St Margarets house has its own unique postcode ) BY CAR Leaving the A1 at its junction with Portobello and Willowbrae roads, head down Restalrig Rd South turning left into the back of Meadowbank house. Follow the road around the car park and back of the building and you’ll come across the back of St Margarets house. My studio is situated off the car park outside of the main building. And will be signposted before you need enter the main building itself . BY BUS or FOOT 10 minutes from Princes street. Buses 4,5,26,44,45 drops you outside Meadowbank House . St Margaret’s is adjacent. If you’re arriving from The London road entrance take the lifts or stairs down to Basement 2 and leave the main building my studio is just on the left ( classes will be signposted )

Visit Edinburgh: Beginners Bookbinding Class location
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Phoenix Handmade Books
Phoenix Handmade Books

5.0 (85)

Hello I’m Will Phoenix and 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
Edinburgh Activities
•
Craft
•
Paper Craft & Ink
•
Book Binding
•
Kids activities Experience Gifts

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class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production edinburgh Edinburgh Scotland GB edinburgh