Bookbinding Core 3 :: Limp Paper Binding

 Registration is closed for this event

March 7th, 2020 9:30 AM

  • Instructor: Monica Holtsclaw
  • Workshop Extra: Core Curriculum, Certificate Program
  • Workshop Type: Binding
  • Workshop Status: Wait-list
  • Workshop Start: March 7th, 2020 9:30 AM
  • Workshop End: March 7th, 2020 5:30 PM
  • Sessions: 1

Bookbinding Core Certificate Program

The San Francisco Center for the Book celebrates the craft and art of bookbinding. Our Bookbinding Core Certificate Program introduces students to four different binding models, leading them through the history and evolution of bookmaking.  It provides students a comprehensive foundation to delve into the practice of binding and qualifies them work in our bindery. Click here to learn more about the Bookbinding Core Certificate Program and find out how you may receive a discount on classes.


Bookbinding Core 3 :: Limp Paper Binding

In centuries past, books were sometimes sewn onto cords and then laced into soft covers before being bound for a specific collection or library. Often covered with calfskin, these limp vellum bindings became an important structure all their own. In this class students will bind a book using these bindings as a model but employing thick paper as the folded and laced wrapper. Students will learn to use a sewing frame and the skill of sewing headbands.

Competencies Gained:

  • Build on skills from Cores 1 and 2

  • Knowledge:

    • Scoring and lacing an outer case

    • Bookbinding materials: cords, heavy hand-made paper

  • Skills:

    • Using a sewing frame

    • Sewing on Alum tawed pigskin

    • Sewing headbands

    • Making a paper case with Yapp edge

  • Equipment:

    • Sewing Frame

    • Japanese hole punch

    • Dividers

All paper for SFCB's Core Certificate Program projects has been generously provided by Mohawk.


Materials to Bring: None

Prerequisites: Bookbinding Core 1 & 2

Workshop + Materials Fee: $200.00

Date & Time: Saturday, March 7, 2020 :: 9:30am-5:30pm

Location: This workshop will take place at 375 Rhode Island St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Note: Please read 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 | Monica Holtsclaw

Monica Holtsclaw holds a Diploma in bookbinding from the North Bennet Street School and a BFA in graphic design from the Savannah College of Art and Design. She has worked as a bookbinder in private practice and in conservation labs. Her artist books have been featured in Guild of Book Workers traveling exhibitions and can also be found in university collections across the country. She specializes in bookbinding and box making and loves sharing what she has learned with others. Examples of her work can be found at monicaholtsclaw.com.


Past Student Reviews:

“I enjoyed sewing with a frame. I had been looking forward to trying out that tool for sewing tapes, and found it to be much easier than doing so by hand.”

“Another important and interesting class. Monica was very organized with little signs in front of each pile of supplies. She knows how to run a class really well. Before this class, I used to believe that endbands were frivolous. Monica made me respect them by showing how they really add to the structure of the book. No more glue-on headbands! I also loved learning how to make a weaver's knot and Monica's video on this is fantastic."

“Clear demos, explanations, and instruction.”

“Monica's instruction was clear and detailed. Her assistance was ever present, helpful, and patient. Her written instructions were clear and thorough.”


Customize Your Certificate Program :: Choose the Date of Your Next Class

Bookbinding Core 4: Classic Rounded Back Cloth Binding

375 Rhode Island St
San Francisco, CA 94103-5133
United States