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Coptic Stitch Bookbinding Workshop

Discover one of the most beautiful and functional bookbinding techniques in this immersive half-day workshop. The Coptic stitch, with its distinctive exposed spine and elegant chain-link pattern, creates books that lay completely flat when opened—perfect for journals, sketchbooks, and albums that invite frequent use.

In this hands-on intensive, you'll master the foundational technique of Coptic binding while exploring modern variations that allow for creative expression. Learn to punch, measure, and sew your signatures together with precision, creating that signature decorative spine that's as sturdy as it is stunning. We'll cover essential skills like preparing your pages, selecting suitable book cover materials, and achieving consistent tension in your stitching.

Once you've mastered the basics, we'll explore creative possibilities: experiment with contrasting thread colors, incorporate decorative beads or buttons into your binding, and discover how different cover materials—from traditional board to unexpected fabrics and found materials—can transform your finished book.

Whether you're a complete beginner or have some bookbinding experience, you'll leave with a beautiful handmade book, the confidence to continue binding at home, and a new appreciation for the meditative rhythm of hand-stitching.

All materials and tools provided, including needles, waxed linen thread, paper, and covers.

By the end of the workshop, you'll have created a unique, functional book that opens flat and showcases the timeless beauty of exposed-spine binding.

CLASS DETAILS

Enrollment Open!

Day:

Sunday

Time:

1:00PM - 5:00PM

Dates:

May 31

Instructor:

Amanda Wander

$110 for members | $120 for non-members

Tuition:

Location:

Yrabedra Studio
Education Center (121 N. Gadsden St.)

Supplies:

All materials included

Meet the Instructor

Amanda Wander

Amanda Wander earned her BA in Studio Art from Florida State University in 2008. She served as Education Director at LeMoyne from 2004 to 2006 and has exhibited her mixed media collages and assemblages at venues such as LeMoyne and the Gadsden Arts Center. With a diverse skill set spanning photography, printmaking, leatherworking, bookbinding, foundry techniques, and graphic design, she has also taught workshops at LeMoyne and the Thomasville Center for the Arts. Wander's artistic philosophy embraces the idea that "more is better"—a belief she applies through the process of "gilding the lily," continually adding layers and complexity to her work. Her recent creations include artist books and small-scale mixed media collages, reflecting her ongoing exploration of texture, materiality, and narrative.

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Gallery Address: ​125 N. Gadsden Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301​​
Education Center Address: 121 N. Gadsden Street, 
Tallahassee, FL 32301

Phone: 850-222-8800

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LeMoyne Art Foundation, Inc. DBA LeMoyne Arts is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Federal Tax Number: 59-6166275.
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