The Secret Belgian Binding was developed in the 1980s by a Belgian bookbinder and was brought to us by the wonderful Hedi Kyle, chief conservator at the American Philosophical Society and adjunct professor at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.

The Secret Belgian Binding is an ideal structure for guest books, sketchbooks, and photo albums, as the pages lay flat when the book is open.

Participants will glue decorative paper to the cover boards, punch holes in the covers, and learn the woven pattern to connect the boards to the hard spine piece. The class will then sew the text pages to the covers, and voilà! A lovely, durable hardcover sewn book is the result.

Materials to Bring: Optional and available at SFCB for student use during workhsop: Scissors,  awl, round glue brush, dividers.

Workshop Fee (includes $15 materials fee): $180.00

Date & Time: Sunday, May 3, 2020 :: 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.

About the Instructor | Juliayn Coleman

Juliayn Coleman has been a professional bookbinder since her graduation from the North Bennet Street School bookbinding program in 2003. Her private practice encompasses all levels of book repair and conservation, custom portfolio and enclosure making, teaching, and being a good ambassador for the craft of bookbinding in general. Some of her creative and professional projects can be seen at  www.bookislandbindery.com.

Past Student Reviews:

“Juliayn presented the material in a systematic way, moving us from simple to more complex tasks so that we could build our skills. The workshop was well timed, and Juliayn had prepared materials in advance, so everything we needed was to hand.”

“I feel very confident about what I learned. I am inspired and determined to continue working and practicing.” 

“I think the teacher makes or breaks this kind of class and Juliayn was excellent. She managed our time well, patiently explained the various techniques, and had just the right approach when I screwed up! That is, she not only knew how to fix things, she also knew how to dial down my anxiety and keep it positive. She also has a good sense of humor and a calm demeanor.”