The Art of Paste Paper and Handmade Books

In this two-day workshop, we will explore the history and methods of creating decorative paper using the paste paper method and then use what we create to learn the art of bookmaking.

The workshop will be split into two parts: first, the history of paste paper, the different paste recipes, and the application of paint and paste to paper.  You will be able to explore different pattern designs using and experiment with a variety of tools, stencils, and stamps.  This part of the class is all about exploration and patterns.

In the second part of the class, we will learn about bookmaking.  You will learn about the parts of a book while making a series of different books: a simple pamphlet-stitch book, an accordion-style book, how to make a book block using the French link stitch with a paper cover, and, finally, how to case in a book.  You will learn about paper grain, how to fold signatures, and more.  The papers you created will be used to decorate your books either as covers, collaged into the accordion, or end sheets.

No experience is necessary; all levels are welcome.

Skills and Techniques:

• Material Preparation and Recipes for Paste Papers
• Color Blending
• Texture Manipulation, Mark Making – developing unique patterns using tools such as combs, brushes, sponges, and kitchen items.
• Surface Design Concepts
• Paper Handling, Grain Direction
• Process Resilience
• Precision Folding & Cutting
• Sewing Techniques for Book Blocks
• Structure and Assembly of Books – folding, gluing, making covers

Materials Fee: $45 paid directly to the instructor.

Special Tools or Equipment to bring: Apron, Metal Ruler, Pencil, Bonefolder, Awl,  a retractable Snap Blade Utility Knife, or Ex-Acto blade, and a Cutting Mat no smaller than 12” X 18”.   The instructor will have extras of some items if needed.

Workshop and Cancellation Policies

Please be sure to read our 2026 policies before you register for a workshop https://www.sanbornmills.org/workshop-policies/

Housing for this workshop is limited. Please email karen@sanbornmills.org for more information.