Saturday, August 22; 10am–4pm CT
Explore Coptic bindings, the most common form of link-stitch binding and possibly the oldest continuously used sewing pattern for books.
This style shows off the sewing on the spine and is an excellent choice for books that need to open flat, such as sketchbooks, smash books, and journals.
This in-person workshop explores the fundamentals of Coptic bookbinding through two core sewing approaches: single- and double-needle foundations. In the morning, learn single-needle Coptic sewing and complete a multi-section binding that opens fully flat. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how to prepare to sew and why this sewing structure works.
In the afternoon, expand your skills by learning double-needle (four-needle) Coptic sewing. This method introduces paired stations, managing multiple needles, and the visual effects minor changes can have on the sewing. Compare the two approaches and gain insight into how sewing methods affect durability and appearance.
By the end of the day, you will understand how Coptic bindings function, how to prepare sections accurately, and how to execute both single- and double-needle sewing with confidence. Most participants will walk away with two completed bindings and the materials to make a third.
Note: Coptic Binding 1 evolved from a 3-hr Coptic binding workshop previously offered by this instructor.
Level: Beginner. All skill levels are welcome.
Certificate: 6 hours, Category A or D
Pricing
$147 | $74 Scholarship | $221 Pay-It-Forward
$25 materials fee
Scholarships are available for individuals facing adversity as it relates to identity, income/wealth, and lack of access to arts resources. The Pay-It-Forward rate (tuition, plus 50%) supports MCBA’s efforts to make scholarships available. We leave it to you to choose the rate that is meaningful to you based on your income, wealth, and privilege status. MCBA members receive a 10% discount on tuition.
