Secret Belgian Binding

Online Via Zoom

Developed by the Belgian artist Anne Goy in 1986 this binding has a similar appearance to a Japanese stab binding. The structure uses a primary and secondary sewing. The sewing creates a distinct thread pattern on the cover and it is a very sturdy binding that allows the book to open completely flat.

In this class we will create a three-piece cover using book board. This board will be covered in paper. The cover pieces will then be sewn together to create the case and the unique sewing pattern. Once the case is completed the textblock will be sewn directly onto the cover using the existing sewing to anchor it in place. We will explore two different sewing methods for connecting the textblock to the case.

This workshop requires a kit that will be mailed to registered students via USPS 2-Day Priority.

Level: This class is appropriate for adult students at all levels.
Dates & Times: 3 Mondays, March 22nd, March 29th, April 5th, 6pm-7:30pm (CST)
Registration ends: Monday, March 15th at 5pm
Max. no of students: 10
Instructor: Kevin Auer
Cost: $100 tuition & materials + $10 shipping fee
Members receive a 10% discount off the cost of the workshop, among other benefits.
Click here to join as a Member, then choose the Member rate below.

Supply List

In addition to a tablet or computer with a reliable Internet connection and a well-lit space in which to work, students will need to provide the following:
1). Sharp pencil with eraser
2). Metal ruler or straight edge, 12” minimum length
3).​ Self-healing cutting mat or several layers of cardboard to protect table surface
4).​ PVA glue or other suitable white craft glue and glue brush
5).​ Bone folder or back of spoon for creasing
6).​ Scalpel or x-acto knife
7).​ Awl
8). Waste paper for gluing out. Newspaper or junk mail will work.

ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Early registration is encouraged.
• This workshop is designed for adults. Older teenagers, age 16-17, may also register. For information on resources for younger children, please click here.
• At this time, we are only mailing kits to the continental US. A detailed list of materials in the kit can be emailed to a registered student living outside the continental US, prior to the workshop.
• Registered students will receive a link to the Zoom meeting in the confirmation email. Students will also receive detailed instructions on how best to participate via Zoom, helpful if one is unfamiliar with the platform.
• Zoom meetings for this workshop will be recorded. Students will have private access to the recordings for 90 days.

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Kevin Auer trained as an apprentice in bookbinding with Scott Mullenberg in Portland, Maine. He then worked as a conservation technician for a number of years at Cornell University. After graduating from the conservation program at the University of Texas at Austin, Kevin worked as a book conservator at the Walters Art Museum. Kevin learned letterpress from David Wolfe in Portland, Maine. He co-owned Wolfe Editions, a small shop that specialized in artists’ books and limited edition work. Kevin also ran his own shop for a number of years doing letterpress printing and book binding. He has taught letterpress at Dartmouth College, The Maryland Institute College of Art, and The University of Texas at Austin. Kevin is currently the Director of the Communication Design Program at The University of Houston, Victoria.