This workshop will introduce students to an intriguing historical structure referred to as the Box Binding. This early  bookbinding structure, flourished from the 8th-12th centuries throughout the Islamic world. The textblock is sewn, unsupported, laced into wooden boards, and has woven endbands in the traditional Islamic style. The book is covered in North African goatskin, and, as its name suggests, will be built into the protective box that makes this binding one of the most unique and interesting of the historical bookbinding structures. 

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Materials to Bring: Clamps, pliers, scalpel, square.

Optional and available at SFCB for student use during workshop: awl, bone folder, cutting mat, 2 needles, pencil, pressing boards, sandpaper, scissors, straight edge, small weight for use in sewing

Optional (bring only if you have them already; instructor will have some to share): Japanese (or
other small) hole punch, small hand drill with bits to make holes from 1mm to 3mm, small block plane for smoothing the board edge, small quick-release clamps, small woodcarving chisel for cutting 1 mm grooves (can use scalpel or utility knife instead).

*Please note: We will be dyeing the leather and shaping/sanding wooden boards, please wear working clothes or
bring an apron.

Workshop Fee (includes $100 materials fee): $700.00

Date & Time: Monday-Friday, August 12-16, 2019 :: 9:30am-5:30pm

Location: 375 Rhode Island St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Note: Please read over the SFCB Registration Policies before signing up for a class

REGISTRATION WILL CLOSE 3 DAYS PRIOR TO THE START DATE OF THIS WORKSHOP.

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About the Instructor | Michael Burke

Michael Burke studied bookbinding with Dominic Riley and paper conservation with Karen Zukor. He lives in the Lake District, where he teaches bookbinding. In recent years he has taught and lectured at Society of Bookbinders conferences and seminars, and at Guild of Bookworkers meetings in the USA, as well as teaching tours in Australia, New Zealand and Brazil. Each year he teaches summer school at the San Francisco Center for the Book and across the USA. Michael researches the structures of ancient and medieval bindings, and has a Masters degree in the History of the Book from the University of London.

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Past Student Reviews:

“LOVE Michael Burke! Thanks for a great class and see you next summer.” 

“Michael's enthusiasm is infectious. His ability to bring to life historical structures and the larger context of their production is a treat rarely to be savored in these types of workshops.”

“I intend to return and look forward to next time.”

“Thank you for his patience and good humor, very professional.”

“Absolutely no complaints and hope to have another class with Michael.”