Hand-bound albums and scrap books with Rachel Ward-Sale

Ref: S2D32980

About this course

Create unique albums and scrapbooks using a variety of bookbinding structures and techniques which can be reproduced using simple equipment. These versatile structures are ideal for artists or photographers or simply to curate keepsakes.

Course Description

Explore a variety of bookbinding structures to produce a set of albums and scrapbooks.

Using different folding and sewing techniques you will produce several books including a hard covered side sewn album with decorative paper sides, a soft cover long stitch scrap book and a non-adhesive folded album with a paper cover. These versatile bindings can be used to display photographs, artwork and keepsakes, making them ideal for artists and photographers. All materials will be provided including decorated papers and book cloth for covering the bindings. You may bring your own items such as photographs, postcards, and artwork to include in the albums.

This practical workshop will introduce you to the materials and techniques involved in basic bookbinding. You will learn about the properties and characteristics of the materials you will be using and how to ascertain their suitability for each binding style. The skills you will acquire during the course will enable you to reproduce the techniques at home using basic tools and equipment. There will also be an introduction to the tools and equipment involved and their correct handling.

During the course you will learn how to:

- fold paper ready for sewing into pages and pockets

- select and prepare covering materials

- use a variety of sewing and binding techniques

Each process will be demonstrated to the group. Afterwards you will be able to work on your own bindings with individual help from the tutor to produce several books.

Course Materials

Included

  • The tutor will supply a range of coloured and decorated papers and card to make your albums.

What students need to bring

  • Pencil (retractable), rubber, pen
  • Scissors, strong craft knife, set square
  • Apron
  • Ruler
  • Photographs, postcards and small artworks (optional)

Available to buy

  • Available from shop:
  • A range of art materials, including craft knives.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential

Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am

Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required

General Information

Tutors

Rachel Ward-Sale

Rachel studied Art, Design and Bookbinding at The University of Brighton and has worked as a self-employed bookbinder and teacher for 30 years.

She is a Fellow of Designer Bookbinders and her work is represented in private and public collections including the British Library and Liverpool Central Library. She has been awarded prizes in national and international competitions.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

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Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.