Fine bookbinding classes offered a structured yet creative introduction to the art of the handmade book. Students moved gradually from simple, accessible projects to more demanding bindings, exploring both practical function and aesthetic detail.

In the Beginners’ Cycle, participants learned how to make their own notebooks and photo albums, discovering the pleasure of constructing a book from scratch. They then progressed to cased-in, hardback cloth bindings, gaining confidence with measuring, cutting, and assembling sturdy covers. Along the way, they also created protection devices and archival boxes, understanding how to safeguard books and precious documents for long-term preservation.

The Advanced Cycle focused on more sophisticated techniques such as laced-in bindings and leather-bound volumes. Here, students refined their precision and craftsmanship, working with higher-end materials and more complex structures that demanded patience and attention to detail.

In the Specialised Seminars’ Cycle, the emphasis shifted to fine finishes and conservation skills. Participants experimented with special binding creations, explored gold tooling and decorative methods, and learned the marbling technique for creating unique patterned papers. They also acquired basic book conservation techniques, allowing them not only to make new books but also to care for and restore existing ones.