Bookbinding Repair and Restoration of Books Workshop

Join Our Book Repair & Restoration Workshop


Isabelle McGowan
Isabelle McGowan
5.0 (55)

3 hours Class size 1 to 4 guests    

  $250 (Afterpay & PayPal Pay in 4 available)

Discover the art of book repair and restoration in this introductory workshop. Bring along your cherished damaged books and learn practical techniques to help bring them back to life.
With expert guidance, you’ll explore a range of repair and restoration skills, depending on the condition of the books you bring. Techniques may include:
  • Repairing damaged paper using Japanese paper techniques
  • Restoring and touching up leather bindings
  • Re-attaching broken spines
  • Cleaning and refreshing book covers and pages
  • Ironing and repairing paper tears
  • Removing tape and other debris
  • And much more!
This workshop is designed as an introduction to book repair techniques. Developing proficiency will require ongoing practice and may involve attending additional sessions.
As the session is limited to three hours, we recommend attending multiple workshops to deepen your skills over time. Please note: all work must be completed on-site. No materials will be provided to take home.
Bring a variety of books to practice on (the more diverse, the better!), or select from our pile of broken books for a nominal fee.
Important Information
All materials, tools, tea, coffee, and biscuits will be provided.
You must have completed Beginner 1.01 and Case-binding 1.01 and 1.02.
Why? Understanding how a book is constructed is essential; f you don’t know how a book is put together, how can you safely take it apart and repair it with care?
Refunds are not available for change of mind. Please review our Terms and Conditions before booking.
Workshop written and delivered by Isabelle McGowan © 2020 Isabelle McGowan. All rights reserved.
What you'll get
All materials, tools, tea, coffee, and biscuits will be provided.
Knowledge required
No prior repair experience is necessary. However, you must have completed Beginner 1.01 and Case-binding 1.01 and 1.02.
Why? Understanding how a book is constructed is essential; f you don’t know how a book is put together, how can you safely take it apart and repair it with care?
  • Confidence using sharp instruments and the ability to follow instructions are essential.
  • Suitable for participants with basic crafting skills (cutting, folding, measuring).
What to bring
Their own broken books
Location

Owl & Lion, Jones Street, Ultimo NSW

Central Station is a 10 minutes walk OR Exhibition Centre Light rail is a 4 minute walk. Direct out front paid on-street parking is available.

Bookbinding Repair and Restoration of Books Workshop location
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Your teacher

Isabelle McGowan
Isabelle McGowan

Florence-trained Bookbinder now based in Sydney with over 10 years teaching experience

5.0 (55)
female Women-owned

The Owl & Lion Bindery in Ultimo, Sydney, led by Isabelle with 15 years of teaching experience, offers diverse courses and workshops in bookbinding and related arts. Our goal is to provide an immersive journey through the bookbinding process, catering to beginners and advanced students alike.
Structured to accommodate varying skill levels, our courses ensure each participant crafts beautifully finished volumes. We're committed to nurturing individuals' bookbinding aspirations, whether pursued as a hobby or profession, making this timeless tradition accessible to all.
Classes are available both online and in-bindery, meticulously tailored to suit different learning styles and schedules. Whether you're looking to refine your crafting skills or embark on a creative journey, the Owl & Lion Bindery has the perfect offering for you.
Additionally, Isabelle offers teaching services worldwide, ensuring accessibility for enthusiasts everywhere. Reach out to us, to explore your bookbinding journey further.
We are located at:
Shop 193
392 Jones Street
Ultimo, Sydney
2007

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2026-06-19 15:00:00
class V48I01Z33L 34c052b7f77f35dccea660a6ce51910d production sydney Sydney NSW AU sydney