Virtual Bookbinding Fabric Covered Journal

In this virtual bookbinding course, you will create a unique fabric bound journal from scratch. Suitable for beginners this is a great way to start a new hobby and create something beautiful from the comfort and safety of your home.

You will learn how to make and embellish your cover, create a signature and finally bind the whole thing together to create your very own handmade book.

Our virtual art sessions are a great way to develop your creativity and take your mind off your everyday stresses. The sessions will be tutor-led step by step through zoom a virtual meeting software which is free for you to download online. You will need your own materials and equipment for this course as it is done at home so please check the details below.

This course will guide you through the different processes needed to create a book from scratch.

Session 1 - The Cover
To start off your tutor will guide you step by step to make a cover for your fabric journal.

Session 2 - The pages
This week we gather together the pages into a single signature and embellish them ready for binding.

Session 3 - Bringing it all together
This week we learn to bind the signature into the cover and finish off our journal with some finishing touches.

All abilities are welcome on this course, no prior knowledge or experience of bookbinding are required but you do need to either be able to use a sewing machine or hand sew to come along on this course. It really doesn't matter though is you machine sew or hand stitch both will work just as well. It is recommended for adults but teenagers could join with adult supervision at all times as sharp tools are used during some sessions.

Session 1 - You will need:
Two pieces of calico, canvas or some other stiff and plain fabric measuring 35x21cm and 40x15cm. I like mine rustic but if you prefer a neater finish you might want slighter larger pieces and to hem them first.
watercolours/watercolour pastels
Spray bottle with water
Plastic work surface such as tablecloth or sheet
Two colourful patterned napkins
PVA glue or matt gel medium
glue brush
paintbrush
strong glue - The glue I use is beacon 3 in 1 advanced craft glue. Heavy structure gel also works well however pva will work if you have no alternative.
ruler
scissors
Lace trim
Sewing machine or needle and thread

Session 2 - You will need:
selection of different papers (if you want it varied, just white paper if not) Can be a variety of sizes
Envelopes
Guillotine or ruler, pencil and scissors
bone folder (optional)
Lace/ribbon trim
Scrap fabric
Washi tape or patterned paper
crocodile clips or paper clips
an awl or pointy tool for poking holes.
strong glue - The glue I use is beacon 3 in 1 advanced craft glue. Heavy structure gel also works well however pva will work if you have no alternative.

Session 3 - You will need:
strong thread - needs to be a strong cotton that won't break when pulled, waxed linen or nylon
big needle
crocodile clips or paper clips
beads, buttons, scraps of paper, lace, ribbon to decorate with
strong glue - The glue I use is beacon 3 in 1 advanced craft glue. Heavy structure gel also works well however pva will work if you have no alternative.
Scrapbook paper/patterned paper
Coloured paper napkins
PVA or matt gel medium
Luggage tags or white card and scissors

You will make a book to keep that is totally hand made that can be used for anything from shopping lists to art journaling. This handmade book would also make a great gift for a loved one.