Making Books by Hand

Visit the workshop of Florence-trained Bookbinder Isabelle McGowan at the Open Studio. This traditional bindery specialises in the repairs and restoration of significant and historical books as well as fancy gold decorations on fine leather books! Enjoy the beautiful workspace, find out about the special equipment used, watch a gold tooling demonstration and even make a wee book to take home with you.

Discover the enchanting world of creating handmade books under expert guidance; a perfect blend of learning and creativity. These immersive workshops ignite a passion for bookbinding while teaching new skills, designed for everyone from the beginner eager to learn, to seasoned makers looking to expand their skills. Participants are guided through each step of the bookmaking process to explore various techniques, materials, and tools, ensuring you gain confidence and mastery in this timeless craft.

Our workshops are open to everyone, see the webpage for booking details. Discover the art of block printmaking in our Sketchbook Printmaking workshop - Saturday 12 October and Make A Customised Expandable Chunky Journal in our Beginner Bookbinding workshop - Wednesday 16 October. There are tours every hour during our Open Studio on Saturday 19 October, participation with booking is free.

Upcoming Workshops Wednesday 16th October - Beginner Bookbinding; Open Studio Saturday 19 October.

owlandlion.com/learn-bookbinding

owlandlion.com

Image top (l-r): Isabelle McGowan, Matched pair, Fine Bindings 2024 and Jane Eyre, Fine Binding, 2023 Photos: Courtesy of the Artist