Book Binding classes - Sydney

Fun Book Binding classes in Sydney

Much like calligraphy and brushwork, the art of bookbinding has spiritual origins. Used initially as a method of binding religious texts transcribed onto palm leaves in India, it was soon spread by Buddhist monks as they travelled through China and Afghanistan in the first century B.C.E. Bookbinding didn’t truly become the norm until the Islamic Golden Age, where Arab nations adopted the paper-making methods that had existed in China for hundreds of years. 

Prior to this, the predominant method of storing literature was on papyrus scrolls that were either wrapped around a centrepiece and stored in a winerack-style case, or intricately folded to maximise space. Book binding revolutionised the way texts were stored and transported, and with the invention of the printing press, the industry of book binding went absolutely gangbusters. Although ClassBento doesn’t (currently) have any classes that can teach you scroll-making, our book binding classes make for a unique option when looking for fun things to do in Sydney.

Our book binding workshops offer individuals and groups a chance to challenge themselves in an environment that, although welcoming and fun, offers a greater challenge in the world of arts and crafts. With heavier raw materials and unique equipment, book binding classes will make your hands - and your brain - work just a little bit harder. One of the benefits to this, however, is the practicality of the skill. Although it may not initially seem like book binding is an art that can benefit you every day, the rewards of looking at a diary or notepad you made can be a wonderful self-esteem boost during long office days.

Much like any of ClassBento’s craft workshops, Book binding classes will begin with light refreshments and a demonstration on what you’ll be covering in the session. With all the raw materials provided, you’ll match the cover and design of your choice to your style of paper, or signature, as it’s known. From there, you’ll take home everything you’ve created in the class for you to use and enjoy for many years to come. 

Health benefits of Bookbinding

Bookbinding has a level of intensity not normally characterised with standard, hand-made craft hobbies. The level of attention to detail required to bind a book means that the concentration needed can be successful in eliminating thoughts and distractions of the outside world. This is called “mindful movement meditation” and is synonymous with many crafts and disciplines that require considerable focus. This has been found to alleviate stress and anxiety in people who are usually time-poor or work in high-pressure environments.

Bookbinding also employs fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination which, when regularly practised, wards off degenerative brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s. There are many benefits to learning Bookbinding, and it’s one of ClassBento’s most unique Sydney workshops available. Learning bookbinding is truly a unique feather in anyone’s cap, and Bookbinding classes in Sydney are a perfect way to add that feather.

Custom classes

Want to learn or experience something specific? You can easily contact our teachers and arrange a custom workshop at your preferred time and to suit your skill level.

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable event these workshops are perfect things to do with friends on the weekend, for aged care groups, team building exercises, indoor things to do, and kids weekend activities. We've got a range of teachers who cater specifically to larger events, and we can customise classes to meet your needs. Get in touch today and we'll put something together for you.

What we offer

• Hand-picked professional book binders

• Support of the local Sydney craft scene

• Locations: St Peters, Redfern

• Great gift ideas

• Affordable

• Convenient