Materials Lab Workshop: Making a Journal
In this workshop on Friday, Jan. 13, participants will create a journal with a link stitch binding, involving only needle and thread. This type of simple binding allows the book to lay flat when open, making it perfect for sketching or writing. It’s also a great way for beginners to learn fundamental bookbinding concepts and techniques. The technique is derived from the Coptic multi-section binding technique used in Egypt as early as the second century CE. Using this method, the sections of paper are attached to each other with chain stitch links across the spine, rather than cords running across the spine as seen in European bindings from the eighth century onward. While historical bindings would have covers of wooden boards or layered papyrus, participants will use colored cardstock and decorate with paint or collage.
Yi Bin Liang, conservation technician at the Straus Center for Conservation and Technical Studies, will lead the workshop. No prior experience is necessary. This workshop will take place in the Materials Lab, and the materials fee is $15. Registration is required and space is limited. Registration for this workshop will open on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at this link, and participants will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis. To join the waitlist, please email am_register@harvard.edu. Participants must be a minimum age of 14. Bring a sense of imagination, curiosity and creativity!