This 2-day weekend intensive course focuses on showcasing a visual collection of natural curiosities is truly one of a kind. We will concentrate on small treasures as decoration in a two piece set: a unique hardcover book with inset decorative panel and a matchbox drawer for it to live in. Using an assemblage of historic illustrations, found objects, and natural artifacts we will create a visual decoration on the book cover and the box top.   

Students will build and cover a matchbox drawer structure to house their book with a compartment for found and collected pieces to accompany their book. The top of the matchbox has an inset panel for creative decoration or sculptural elements to be added. Created as a multiple signature hand-sewn hardcover this book structure allows for content to be added after the fact or collages in with mark making techniques and transfers. The sewing structure is a traditional link stitch and the hard cover has an inset panel for a decorative sculptural panel of curiosities to be added.  During the class there will be a slideshow of contemporary work, which can give students ideas and inspiration about how to take this book to the next level in their artist book practice.  

Prerequisites: Basic bookbinding experience is needed for this class; sewing of multiple signatures and gluing with a working knowledge of measuring and cutting.  A basic bookbinding skill set will allow students to focus on the creative aspects of the binding and box making elements. Please inquire if you are unsure about your skill level for the course.

Materials to Bring: 12” metal ruler with metric and inches, pencil, X-acto or snap blade knife, bone folder, sharp scissors, awl, medium glue brush (round, 1" in diameter), and dividers.

Workshop Fee: $375

Date & Time: Sundays, April 17 & 24, 2016 :: 10:00am-6:00pm

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

Note: Please read over the SFCB Registration Policies before signing up for a class. If you are registering within 3 days of the start date for this class, please call 415-565-0545 ex.105 to complete your registration 

About the Instructor | Rhiannon Alpers

Rhiannon Alpers, has an MFA in Book and Paper Arts from Columbia College Chicago and a BA in Book Arts from UCSB. She is a papermaker, letterpress printer and book artist. She has taught academic courses at San Francisco Art Institute, University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, Dominican University, Academy of Art University, Cabrillo College in Santa Cruz, Columbia College Chicago, Santa Reparata School of Art in Florence, Italy. She has taught workshops for Penland School of Crafts, Book Arts LA, San Diego Book Arts, Contemporary Jewish Museum, Kala Printmaking Institute, Center for Book and Paper in Chicago, and at her own studio in the Mission District. For more information visit rhiannonalpers.com

Past Student Reviews:

"Wonderful instructor, extremely helpful and generous with time and supplies."

"Really appreciate her willingness to think about alternatives."

"Rhiannon is very patient and knowledgeable. Very good at pacing and making sure students are on track and not feeling left behind. Great handouts, too. “