SOLD OUT: Make and Take Class: Book Making Using Coptic Book Form, Old Books, and Decorative Papers

Please join us on Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15, from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.

Laura Gardner will be teaching a Coptic Book Binding Class at Ashantilly.

In this make and take class students will explore the beauty and history of one of the world’s oldest bookbinding traditions in this immersive, hands-on workshop. In this two-day class, students will learn the fundamentals of the Coptic book form—an ancient Egyptian binding style known for its exposed, decorative spine and ability to lie completely flat when opened. Using rescued old books for covers and an assortment of decorative papers for end pages and separators, each student will construct a finished Coptic-style book to take home.

All materials are provided, including book covers, decorative papers, waxed linen thread, scissors, and more. Students will also receive a personal toolkit to keep, featuring a needle, awl, bone folder, and paper clips. No prior bookbinding experience is required—this class is suitable for beginners as well as those looking to deepen their understanding of traditional binding techniques.

Class Schedule:
This is a two-day class, meeting from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, March 14 and 15. Lunch, snacks, and drinks will be provided on both days.

What You’ll Learn:

• An introduction to the Coptic book form and its historical roots
• Key vocabulary and the parts of a Coptic book
• How to fold and prepare signatures
• Selecting and preparing book covers
• Piercing signatures and choosing thread
• Step-by-step instructions in the Coptic stitch

Through demonstrations, examples, and guided practice, students will gain confidence with tools and techniques as they create a functional, beautifully bound book that celebrates both tradition and creativity.