In this intimate class, students will learn the art of coptic bookbinding with Alison Kaplan of Kata Golda Handmade. The coptic bookbinding technique creates a flexible book with an exposed spine, the pages open flat making it the perfect journal for writing and sketching. Building on decades of bookbinding experience, Alison makes this craft feel approachable and adaptable. She will showcase an assortment of finished hand bound journals in many sizes so everyone can see the endless possibilities. Participants will make a book covered in plant-dyed organic cotton/hemp fabric that is 3.25” wide and 4.75” tall and is about .5” thick. 

We will begin with an overview of coptic bookbinding and learn about the tools in the bookbinding kit. We will practice ripping paper and sewing/connecting pamphlets. We will also touch on embellishing covers.We will then glue the cover and back and finish our books. We will discuss adaptations to make books of different sizes and shapes – Alison has many options to share. If time allows, participants will be introduced to two other simple techniques: a pamphlet-style notebook, an accordion book that is perfect for displaying photos or using for watercolor painting.

Date + Time

Saturday, June 6th

12-4 pm ET

Location

Tatter Textile Library: 505 Carroll Street, #2B, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Class Materials

All materials are included with ticket purchase.

Cost

$175

Our Teacher

My studio, the home of Kata Golda, is nestled snugly in the small, mossy seaside town of Port Townsend, Washington. Much of the inspiration for my work comes from the subtle details in the natural world, where nothing is straight and nothing is perfect. I try to begin each day with a walk in the woods or time in my dye garden. The flow of my day shifts between the repetitive production of filling orders, scheming and sketching new ideas for my line, dyeing fabric, and stitching something simply for pleasure. The rhythm of my creative endeavors is punctuated by domestic arts— cooking, gardening, mending, and keeping a tidy and organized space. I find that chores clear my head, structure my day, and focus my craft. I love the sense of order and accomplishment from a thoughtfully planned routine. I almost always have a hand-bound journal and sharp pencil within reach. It is a practice that I started over twenty years ago to make space for my artistic, wandering ideas while keeping my methodical mind at peace. I work with sustainable fabrics, and I love growing a dye garden and coaxing color from plants in my home dye studio. I create slowly and with intention and try to use up every little scrap of fabric. The things I make take time. I find immense joy in sharing my love of hand work with others through free sewing tutorials, DIY kits, and carefully curated bundles of plant-dyed fabrics. Taking the time to slow down and make something with your hands using quality materials is such a gift, and I feel so lucky to do this work.