Instructor: Bari Zaki

This binding style is available as a private workshop. Nota bene: There is no companion recording. But there is a charming illustrated multi-page handout with step-by-step instructions, which we will mail you a day or so after your workshop session. No previous bookbinding experience is necessary.

This Japanese binding style dates back to the 11th century. It involves four needles for stitching, which is not nearly as daunting as you might imagine. The stitch is so simple, I'd describe it as rhythmic. Your pages lay completely flat, making it a delight to draw, write, or collage directly in your book

What you’ll make: We will begin by getting acquainted with paper grain and its importance for the finished book. After an overview of the tools we will use, you will fold ten sheets of Stonehenge drawing paper (with delightful deckled edges) into signatures to create a book with a nice thickness. You will make your covers from two luscious sheets of Saint-Armand 100% cotton handmade paper, (or the option of decorative Japanese paper), and reinforce them with thick watercolour paper.

Class fee includes all materials we use to make this book: Handmade paper, or decorative Japanese paper, European mouldmade paper for your pages, assorted colours of Irish waxed-linen threads, and four needles.

Tools needed: Bonefolder, X-acto knife, lightweight awl, scissors, ruler, triangle ruler. You can purchase these items individually here, and I am pleased to offer a 20% discount on any tools ordered for the workshop (via refund after your workshop purchase).

Ancillary tools needed: pencil, a cutting mat.

Select your cover paper option for the dropdown menu below.

To schedule a date & time, add this class to your cart, and then email barizakistudio@gmail.com with your preferred date(s) and time of day. Feel free to call or e me with any questions (773-294-7766 or barizakistudio@gmail.com).

I look forward to sharing my love of papers & boxmaking with you in this three-ish hour workshop.