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 handbound 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. The class days are one week apart so participants can work on embellishing their covers and practice stitching additional sections. 

Session 1: 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.

Session 2: After a week of sewing practice, Alison will answer any questions that came up. 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

Friday, January 29th, 2027

AND

Friday, February 5th, 2027

Time

4:00-6:00 pm ET

Location

Zoom, a link will be sent to participants before class

Cost

Virtual class and kit, $200

Recording

A link to the recording will be emailed to all registrants following the live session. The link is live for one month after the live session.

Class Materials

Included in the kit:

• (2) pieces of plant-dyed organic cotton/hemp fabric for cover & back
• 40” of waxed thread
• (7) 3-page pamphlets of drawing paper for book interior
• (1) extra folded sheet of paper for use as a template
• (4) rectangles of card stock
• Curved needle
• Acid-free adhesive (PVA)
• Sponge brush
• Awl
• Bone folder

Gather from home:

• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• (5) sheets of 8.5 x 11” scrap paper
• Embroidery floss and hand sewing needle for embellishing the cover (optional)