Leather Work Class: Book Binding Workshop

A hand-coloured leather A6 pocketbook or A5 journal



5.5 hours Class size 1 to 6 guests    

  £75 - £95 (£75 for A6 notebook; £95 for A5 journal) (PayPal Pay in 3 available)

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.
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.

Please note: Public dates for this class require at least 2 guests to run. In the unlikely event that we don't reach this number, we'll cancel the class; in this case we'll inform you and allow you to get a refund or reschedule, so please watch your email/SMS one day prior to the class.
What you'll get
A hand-coloured book with your own design engraved on the cover. Filled with over 100 sheets of 180 gsm acid-free plain paper.
A light lunch is provide please let me know your sandwich preferences
(intolerances etc)
Read more details   
Knowledge required
Basic colouring/painting skills suitable for children.. Classes are casual and sometimes with chatting tend to overrun somewhat so maybe bring a snack. Thank you
What to bring
Line art designs need to be emailed in advance so they can be engraved before the class, as this process can take a few hours.
Happy to provide a pre-packed sandwich. Please let me know dietary requirements (meat vegan Allergies etc) Thank you
Location

Edinburgh Palette art studios St Margaret’s House - Studio B215 151 London Rd EH7 6AE

10 minutes from Princes St. Lothian bus numbers 4, 5, 26, 44, 45 drop you right outside St Margaret House

Leather Work Class: Book Binding Workshop location
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Your teacher

Phoenix Handmade Books
Phoenix Handmade Books

5.0 (88)

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
class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production edinburgh Edinburgh Scotland GB edinburgh