Workshop bookcloth making and japanese stab binding

Learn how to make your own book cloth from fabric and then bind your own book using the traditional Japanese stab binding technique during this inspiring one-day workshop. Japanese binding — also known as Japanese stab binding — is an ancient method in which pages are sewn together with decorative stitches along and across the spine, creating a distinctive visible thread structure.

We begin by preparing and covering fabric. You will learn how to reinforce textiles so they become suitable as durable and beautiful book cover material. Next, we work with loose sheets of paper and explore Japanese binding step by step. You will discover how different sewing patterns — such as the classic four-hole binding (yotsume toji) or other variations — can be used to join pages and covers into a strong and aesthetically refined book.

This method is not only functional but also visually striking: the stitches become part of the design and give each book a unique character. At the end of the day, you will go home with a handmade, handbound book and the knowledge to continue working with this technique independently.

No large machines are required for this process, which makes it very suitable to practise at home. This workshop is suitable for both beginners and more experienced participants.

The workshop takes place at Grafisch Atelier Hilversum. All materials, coffee/tea, and lunch are included.

Location · Grafisch Atelier, Noorderweg 96B, 1221AB Hilversum 
Dates · Sunday 14 March
Times · 10.00 tot 16.00 uur
Price · € 110,- including materials, coffee/tea and lunch
Capacity · maximum 7 students
Teacher · Melanie van der Linde
Registration · click “select options” at the bottom of this page to choose a date.