Stab binding is one of the simplest and earliest forms of bookbinding, using single sheets in which holes are stabbed or drilled and sewn on the outside using a variety of traditional stitch patterns.

In this follow-up to the softcover stab binding class, you will learn how to make a Westernized version of this traditional Japanese binding with a hard hinged cover. You can take this class without having taken the softcover class first.

This class runs for two weeks on Tuesday evenings,July 3 and 10, from 7-9pm. In the first session you will prepare the cover for your book, and in the second session you will prepare the pages and complete your binding.

In this class you will create a lovely handbound pocket sized book in the German longstitch and linkstitch style, by sewing folded sections of paper through holes punched through a wraparound leather cover to create a pattern of exposed sewing along the spine. We will cover some basic decorative variations in spine designs, incorporating long stitches and link stitches with the option to add some weaving to the spine as a decorative flourish.

All materials are provided. No previous bookbinding experience is necessary. We will have a selection of different leather pieces you can choose from for your cover. Please note that we use a combination of vintage leathers and new moose and deer hides purchased from hunters. If animal products aren't your thing, we offer classes in this and other book structures that use paper, paperboard, and wood instead. Just check out our other class listings for loads of vegan friendly bookbinding options!