Bookbinding Masterclass

Two-day course for beginners.
Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March 2025, 10.30 – 17.00.
Harry M Weinrebe Learning Centre at the British Library.

Join us over a weekend to explore the codex book form, making three different versions to take home. By the end of the two days, leave with your own set of unique books and an understanding of the different stages and technical processes involved in making a book by hand from scratch.

Beginning with the simple single-section, soft-cover sewn pamphlet book, we will progress to a dos-à-dos, and then to a hard-back, multi-section case binding, suitable for notes, sketches and creative writing. Each form builds on techniques from the last. 

You will be equipped with the skills and your own beginner’s bookbinding kit to make more at home.

Read the full course outline to see details about the course including practical information and the full outline for each day. No previous skills or knowledge is required.

Tutor
This course is led by artist Shelagh McCarthy. Shelagh is a bookbinder and printmaker with a wealth of experience teaching adults with a broad range of abilities. As well as regularly contributing to the Library’s learning programmes, she has designed and led creative workshops and courses for various London institutions including Central Saint Martins, the British Museum, Battersea Arts Centre and The Guardian Education Centre.