Introduction to Bookbinding
Subject and course type
- Short course
Learn accessible bookbinding techniques to create sketchbooks, gifts and artist books. Perfect for beginners or aspiring self-publishers.
Discover how bookbinding can be both an accessible and creative skill.
This one-day Introduction to Bookbinding course is ideal for anyone keen to explore the art of making books by hand.
With simple tools and traditional techniques, this course will show you how to produce beautiful handcrafted books without the need for expensive equipment.
On the course, you will:
- Create three unique book structures: the pamphlet, Japanese stab binding, and hardback concertina.
- Gain practical knowledge of paper types, tools and grain direction.
- Learn to prepare files for self-publishing projects.
By the end of the day, you’ll have crafted your own books and gained insights into how to start a self-publishing project, from selecting materials to cost-effective printing.
Student work
Example course structure
Learn the basics of tools, grain direction and folding techniques.
Assemble and sew pages into a simple pamphlet book.
Create an elegant book sewn on the outside with a stack of folded sheets.
Use book cloth to create a concertina-style book with durable hard covers.
Discuss material selection, print preparation and cost-effective printing techniques.
Course information
Course tutors
Flaminia Rossi will guide the course. Flaminia is an experienced graphic designer, bookbinder and printer, having worked with the London Centre for Book Arts, frieze magazine, and Wyvern Bindery. She combines digital and handmade processes, focusing on independent publishing and education.
What to bring
A bring list will be sent out a week before the course start date. All other materials are provided by Kingston School of Art.
Booking information
Date: TBC
Time: TBC
Fee: TBC (as an educational institution, fees for short courses are VAT-free)
Location: Knights Park campus, Kingston upon Thames.
To ensure everyone’s safety, we follow all government health and safety guidelines. For full terms and conditions, view our short course booking policy.
Ready to craft your own books?
The dates for our next Introduction to Bookbinding course have not yet been confirmed.
Check back here soon or take a look at our other short courses run by the Kingston School of Art.
