The course is an introduction to the craft and design of a variety of book forms using traditional and non-traditional binding techniques. Course activities include lectures, demonstrations, discussions, readings, exercises, projects, and class critiques.
The purpose of Book Binding Workshop is for you to gain knowledge and skill in the applied craft of book binding and to enable the development of a critical perspective on the mechanical and formal aspects of book structures. You are encouraged to engage in the formal exploration of the book forms demonstrated in class and to pursue research relevant to contemporary book arts, technical information into binding materials and conceptual and formal issues related to book structure and its relationship to content.
This course will instruct students in:
- Paper and board properties
- Suitability of materials
- Correct sewing techniques
- Careful paper handling
- Gluing techniques
- Folding techniques
- Cutting techniques
- The use of a variety of tools specific to bookbinding
- Traditional and non-traditional binding techniques
- Book design and planning
- Formal and aesthetic approaches to book design
- Content to form relationships