Workshops & Events
Make Your Own Book Cloth
In this in-person workshop, learn the traditional method for making book cloth with wheat paste, fabric, and Japanese paper.
Box Building: Clamshell Boxes
In this in-person workshop, create a small clamshell box to fit a deck of cards.
Introduction to Hand Bookbinding: Morning
In this in-person workshop, learn foundational skills in bookbinding while making three book structures: pamphlet binding (single- and double-section), slotted tape binding, and a hardcover, flat-back book with three-piece case.
Introduction to Hand Bookbinding: Evening
In this in-person workshop, learn foundational skills in bookbinding while making three book structures: pamphlet binding (single- and double-section), slotted tape binding, and a hardcover, flat-back book with three-piece case.
Book Repair: When Paper Fails
In this in-person workshop, learn foundational techniques and methods to care for aged and damaged paper.
Coptic Binding
This in-person workshop is great for both first-time and advanced binders. It introduces Coptic bindings, the most common form of link-stitch binding and possibly the oldest continuously used book sewing pattern.
Hardcover Exposed Sewn Binding
In this virtual workshop, learn how to create a beautiful hardcover binding using leather or cloth for the spine, and paper for the cover boards.
Introduction to Hand Bookbinding: Weekend
In this in-person workshop, learn foundational skills in bookbinding while making three book structures: pamphlet binding (single- and double-section), slotted tape binding, and a hardcover, flat-back book with three-piece case.
Hot Foil Stamping on Kwikprint Machines
Foil adds rich gold, shiny silver, and wild holographic accents to prints and bindings. Learn how to use the hot foil stamping machines in MCBA’s bindery, aptly named Kwikprint machines.
Embroidery on Paper
In this virtual workshop, learn embroidery techniques for paper and how to create a wide range of effects.
Prickly Pop-Up Valentines
Wish a Happy Valentine's Day to your edgier pals! These cards show that the spiky, tusked, and fanged also want to be loved.
Hot Foil Stamping on Kwikprint Machines
Foil adds rich gold, shiny silver, and wild holographic accents to prints and bindings. Learn how to use the hot foil stamping machines in MCBA’s bindery, aptly named Kwikprint machines.
Handmade Book: Materials & Techniques
Learn to sew a two-color silk headband, make custom book cloth from any fabric, and color a book edge with gouache.
Book Repair: Broken Cloth & Paperback Books
In this in-person workshop, learn foundational techniques and methods to care for aged and damaged books.
A Study in Sliceforms
Build pop-up volumes using a sculptural, flexible technique in this rare in-person workshop with Chicago-based artist Shawn Sheehy.
The Pop-Up Vegetable Garden
Build a garden of delicious-looking, dimensional paper vegetables.