Bookbinding Core 1 – Coptic Binding

 Registration is closed for this event

February 13th, 2016 9:30 AM

  • Instructor: Elizabeth Boyne
  • Workshop Extra: Core Curriculum, Certificate Program
  • Workshop Type: Binding
  • Workshop Status: Closed
  • Workshop Start: February 13th, 2016 9:30 AM
  • Workshop End: February 13th, 2016 5:30 PM
  • Sessions: 1

Bookbinding Core Certificate Program

The San Francisco Center for the Book celebrates the craft and art of bookbinding. Our Bookbinding Core Certificate Program introduces students to four different binding models, leading them through the history and evolution of bookmaking.  It provides students a comprehensive foundation to delve into the practice of binding and qualifies them work in our bindery. Click here to learn more about the Bookbinding Core Certificate Program and find out how you may receive a discount on classes.


Bookbinding Core 1 – Coptic Binding

To paraphrase Lewis Carroll, we begin at the beginning. This, the first of our Core Bookbinding series, introduces students to the craft with the Coptic stitch, one of the earliest structures in binding. In addition to coming away with a finished book made by hand, students will also be introduced to the tools and terms of bookbinding. Basic practices and equipment will be discussed as students familiarize themselves with both skills and safety measures needed for working in a bindery.

Competencies Gained:

  • Knowledge:

    • Basic vocabulary of bookbinding tools and equipment

    • Basic bindery practices and procedures

    • Understanding paper grain

  • Skills

    • Folding, pressing, piercing, sewing, cutting and gluing

  • Equipment:

    • Board shear, nipping press, hand tools

Materials to Bring: None

Prerequisite: None :: (Optional: Intro to Bookbinding)

Workshop Fee: $200

Date & Time: Saturday, February 13, 2016 :: 9:30am-5:30pm

Location: This workshop will take place at 375 Rhode Island St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Note: Please read 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 | Elizabeth Boyne

Elizabeth Boyne is an Oakland-based book artist who received her MFA in book arts from the University of Iowa Center for the Book. She uses handmade paper, letterpress printing, and traditional book forms to create artist books and book-inspired installations. She has served as an artist-in-residence at Kala Art Institute and works at both the Stanford University Libraries conservation lab and at Logos Graphics in San Francisco.


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BookbindingCore 2: Flat-Back Case Binding