Bookbinding Core 1 :: Coptic Binding

 Registration is closed for this event

December 9th, 2017 9:30 AM

  • Instructor: Rhiannon Alpers
  • Workshop Extra: Core Curriculum, Certificate Program
  • Workshop Type: Binding
  • Workshop Status: Closed
  • Workshop Start: December 9th, 2017 9:30 AM
  • Workshop End: December 9th, 2017 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

All paper for SFCB's Core Certificate Program projects has been generously provided by Mohawk.

Watch a video about our Bookbinding Core Certificate workshops!


Materials to Bring: None

Prerequisite: None; optional: Introduction to Bookbinding

Workshop + Materials Fee: $200.00

Date & Time: Saturday, December 9, 2017 :: 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

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


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:

“It was small so we were able to ask questions and get detailed help from Rhiannon. I was really happy with the finished book we made.”

“The pacing was perfect.  I learned a lot, but didn't feel rushed or that I had time on my hands.”

“Rhiannon was great. She is very encouraging and supportive and was very helpful to everyone in the class. She was attentive to people's issues, explained the material clearly and gave good demonstrations.”


Customize Your Certificate Program :: Choose the Date of Your Next Class

Bookbinding Core 2 :: Flat-Back Case Binding

375 Rhode Island St
San Francisco, CA 94103-5133
United States