Bookbinding Workshop: History & Craft

Take a foray into the history of the book while making your own bound projects! Each class in this four-week series includes a brief lesson on the evolution of materials and methods used in bookbinding followed by a crafting experience that utilizes some of the processes discussed. Class concludes with a study of real-life examples of historical bindings from the rare book collection at the Helen Fowler Library.

Week 1: Parchment and paper - Learn the history of plant-based paper and how to make your own.

Week 2: Sewing and precursors to the modern codex - Learn about simple bindings and binding techniques outside of Western cultures.

Week 3: The modern codex - Complete a hard-bound journal and view early examples of modern bindings.

Week 4: Contemporary and fine bindings - Conclude the series with a behind-the-scenes tour of the archives and rare books collection. Learn about and view examples of fine art bindings with decorative elements. Celebrate the progression of completed work throughout the course. No crafting takes place on this day.

Price: $150 Public

Instructor: Angela Naumov

Angela Naumov MLIS (she/her) has been the archivist at Denver Botanic Gardens' Helen Fowler Library for over five years where she manages the historical documents, oversees the preservation of the library's special collections and rare books and provides regular library services to guests looking for resources on horticulture and botany. Angela was introduced to bookbinding and subsequently developed her interest in library work doing book repair for her university library as an undergraduate student. She has continued to bind in her free time and uses her experience in her work.