Introduction to Bookbinding Workshop

With DIY craft kit delivered to you

Make a chunky journal, notebooks, journals and sketchbook


Isabelle McGowan
Isabelle McGowan
4.9 (51)
1k followers

2 hours Class size 1 to 8 guests

  $275 - $800 (Afterpay available) ($275 for Chunky book; $275 for Flat-back case-binding; $275 for Round-back case binding; $800 for Full course)

How it works


book_online
Book your preferred time
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We'll send a ClassBento Box to you (a craft kit with what you'll need). Shipping is free, and it should arrive within 7 days before class. We ship nationwide.
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Enjoy the online class - after booking, you'll get a link to join the interactive class.
This course is delivered live, via zoom. In-person attendance online is necessary, no recording shall be provided.
Chunky Book Workshop: 28th May 2025 - $270
Flat-back Case-binding: 11th June 2025 - $270
Round-back Case-binding: 26th June 2025 - $270
Time: 6pm - 8pm
Cost: $800 for all three courses or $275 per single course
In-person attendance online is necessary, no recording shall be provided.
This winter, cosy up in the warmth of your own home and join us for a three-part online series to get you bookbinding in no time!
Experience the art of bookbinding through live, online classes. Whether you're brand new to bookbinding or looking to refresh your skills, this series will guide you step-by-step through the fundamentals. Each session is welcoming, hands-on, and easy to follow, with two camera views to ensure you don’t miss a thing—perfect for beginners.
You'll finish the series with your own beautifully crafted books and the skills to keep creating long after the classes are over.
Workshops Outline
Workshop 1: Chunky Book
We’ll introduce you to bookbinding materials and tools, making several types of small notebooks and journals, all held together in a beautiful leather (or vegan leather) cover.
Workshop 2: Flat-back Case Binding
Create a classic hardback journal using the flat-back case-binding technique. This is the method used to craft the beautiful hardcover books you admire in fine stationery stores and bookshops.
Note: You must have some bookbinding experience, which as the previous Chunky Book course.
Workshop 3: Round-back Case Binding
Learn to sew your own rounded-spine journal; perfect for writing, sketching, or artistic endeavours. This class is important if you would like to make books with leather in the future.
Note: You must have some bookbinding experience, which as the previous Chunky Book or case binding course.
Each workshop introduces new sewing meethods and book structure. While the series flows naturally, each class teaches a different form of binding, building your confidence and range of skills.
Who Can Join
This series is designed for beginners who have basic crafting skills such as cutting, folding, and measuring. Verbal and visual instructions will be provided live during each session, so participants must be comfortable following instructions via a digital device.
Important Details
Materials: All essential materials and tools will be shipped to you ahead of the class. Please ensure you provide the correct postal address when registering.
Shipping: We currently only ship within Australia. For participants outside Australia, we can advise you on how to purchase materials and tools locally, email us at for assistance.
Booking Deadline: Bookings will close on 2 weeks before commencement of the class to allow time for materials to arrive.
Materials in Your Bookbinding Kit:
Paper
Book board
Decorative paper
Book cloth
Needles
Linen thread
Tools You Will Need to Provide
Ruler
Pencil
Cutting mat
Magazines (for waste paper)
Brush for glue
PVA glue
Bone folder
Awl
Scalpel and blade
Board cutting knife
Optional Purchase: Complete Tool Kit ($125)
Includes:
Bone folder
Awl
Scalpel and blades
Board cutting knife
Bookbinder’s glue brush
Bookbinder’s needles (x3)
Please note: Refunds are not available for change of mind. Kindly review our Terms and Conditions before booking.
This workshop is written and delivered by Isabelle McGowan. © 2010 Isabelle McGowan. All rights reserved.
Add-on available for this class
  • Complete Bookbinder's Tool pack ($125)
You can add this when you book (optional).
More about this class

This teacher has 51 reviews for their other experiences - which you can see here.

Your teacher

Isabelle McGowan
Isabelle McGowan

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

4.9 (51)
1k followers

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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