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.

What you’ll make: You will learn how to sew three different styles of Japanese binding: (l. to r.) Kangxi, Hemp Leaf, Tortoise Shell. These make great sketchbooks, journals or albums. Make them smallish and carry them around to take stylish notes!

We begin, as always in our bookbinding classes, by getting acquainted with paper grain and its importance for the finished book. After an overview of the bookbinding tools you will use, you will fold nine full size sheets (3 per book) of text-weight papers down to progressively smaller sizes. Next you will learn to hand tear your edges to create a beautiful deckle, an essential beginning (in our opinion, and not humble) for any handmade book!

Class fee includes all materials we use to make this book: A trio of Japanese decorative papers, European mouldmade paper for your pages, assorted colours of Irish waxed-linen threads, and a needle.

Tools needed: Bonefolder, shipping clerk’s knife, lightweight awl, medium awl, X-acto knife. 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, scissors, ruler, triangle rule, and a cutting mat.

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 & bookbinding with you in this three-ish hour workshop.