Expand your book binding knowledge while you explore methods for multiple signature binding with the coptic stitch. Coptic bookbinding is one of the oldest methods for sewing books. During this workshop you will craft a book from scratch and learn how to use the Coptic stitch to bind your signatures together. You will learn how to cover boards with decorative paper to create the front and back covers which will be sewn to your signatures. You will leave with a fully functional book.
The Coptic book is completely sewn and does not use glue in its binding. (We will use glue to cover the book boards) The Coptic book lies flat when open, making it great for use as a sketchbook or journal.
You're welcome to bring your own tool kit, but we'll be supplying everything you need. Just come with enthusiasm and curiosity!
Date & Time:
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 9am–4pm Central
Location:
Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum, 1816 10th Street, Two Rivers, WI 54241
Workshop Cost:
$125 Total
Experience Level:
No experience necessary. The minimum age requirement for workshop participants for this event is 18+.
Instructor:
Laura Farahzad Mayer is an artist and designer who grew up in Manitowoc WI. She is a printmaker, bookmaker, and hand letterer. Laura completed her MFA at the University of Iowa where she studied design, printmaking and earned a certificate from the Center for the Book. She previously worked professionally as a graphic artist for Whole Foods Market in Chicago. Her creative practice explores themes of grief, memory, culture and generational storytelling. Laura works as a professor at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design and is based out of Milwaukee, WI.
Everyone breaks for lunch at the same time. Options include purchasing a lunch for $15, bringing your own lunch (a refrigerator is available), or choosing a local restaurant. Clean-up begins at 3 pm and the day finishes up at 4 pm. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothes that may get ink on them. Because of the nature of the pressroom and the pieces being used, participants in the workshop must be 18 years or older.
The cost is $125 with all materials provided by the museum. Space is limited, so reservations and a $65 non-refundable deposit are required. Please complete the registration form below to reserve your place. The $60 balance is due at the beginning of the workshop. Cash, credit cards and checks are acceptable.
If you have any questions, please e-mail us at info@woodtype.org or call (920) 663-8671.