Dates are being revised due to Covid-19
Covering both restoration of existing books and the creation of new bindings and books, this course is equally suitable for beginners and those with previous experience, since tuition is given according to individual needs. The course emphasises the traditional skills and techniques of hand binding and helps you develop a deeper insight into this rewarding craft, whose origins go back over 2,000 years. Cutting tools, presses and other binding equipment and materials are all available for what is one of very few residential bookbinding courses offered in the UK each year. Please expect to reimburse the tutor for the card, coverings and other materials you use, which will depend on the number of projects you undertake in the week.
Whether you are completely new to bookbinding or already have some experience, we suggest that you bring along a selection of possible projects on which to work during the course. Advice will then be given as to the most suitable items to attempt. Possible examples are:
- making plain paper books
- loose material suitable for binding
- bound books in need of repair (If in any doubt about an item bring it along for consideration!)
You can expect to receive instruction in various stages of producing a bound book:
- making up book sections
- preparation for and the technique of sewing
- making up endpapers and their attachment
- cutting the book with the use of plough and press
- rounding and backing the spine with the use of lying press
- cutting, making and attaching the cover
- lettering
- slip cases and boxes
The aim is for everyone to leave on Friday with several finished items. If you would like to discuss the course content or a particular project further you may email the tutor direct on [email protected]
Tutor: Mark Cockram
Mark Cockram is a full time bookbinder with over 40 years experience working with the book. Mark was elected Fellow of Designer Bookbinders in 2001, Brother of the Art Workers Guild in 2008 and more recently, in 2017, was the Faculty Fellow for the New York Centre for Book Arts. Marks diverse work can be found in National and International collections, both public and private around the world. He has recently been made a Special Research Fellow for the University of Shanghai Science and Technology College of Communication and Art Design.Bring a friend!
If you are attending a course at Flatford Mill at the sole occupancy price, we are offering a special rate for a friend or partner not enrolled on the course to also stay at £50 per night for dinner, bed and breakfast.
Please contact FSC Flatford Mill on 01206 297110 or [email protected] to book this offer.
What's Included
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Expert Tuition -
Free Wi-Fi -
Full Board Accommodation -
Hot and Cold Drinks -
In Course Transport
Before You Attend
What to Bring
All the materials to carry out this work will be available at the Centre, as will much of the equipment. You are, however, asked to try and provide the following items for your personal use:
- Craft knife and blades
- Sharp scissors
- Steel rule and a pencil
- Overalls or an apron
- A cutting mat if you have one
If you have any difficulty with these items, or any specialist materials, please let us know and we’ll try to help.
Note: Fees are exclusive of materials which will be available from the tutor at cost price, usually £10-£20.
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