Book repair for the home library
Basic bookbinding knowledge necessary.
Course description
TUTOR: Nicholas Beckett DATES: 21st March 2026 TIME: 9.30am – 4.00pm Bring your old treasured books back to life. This course is designed to help you revive your old books, and to give you a foundation to repair all types of books. We will cover the basics of book repair with an understanding the structure of books. Basic repairs using such as re-backs, oxford hollows, and paper repair will be covered. Students are encouraged to bring any book they want repaired in, from your childhood favourites to you’re family treasured manuscripts with the class revolving around what students bring in. Repair all types of books, from modern plastic-coated covers to cloth and leather-bound books will be covered. The course will endeavour to use conservation techniques where applicable, but also an understanding of the limitations and decisions to repairing modern books with modern materials. Materials are provided. Bring your usual tools if you like, but tools are also available for use at the bindery. NOTE: if you do not have books which need repair there are damaged books at the bindery which have been put aside for this class.
Course details
Contact Details
info@nswbookbinders.org
To be covered by our insurance policy, please:
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Remember to sign in when you enter the bindery and sign out when you leave.
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Always wear closed-in shoes, NO sandals.
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Only use equipment if you have received instruction from a monitor or teacher.
Also:
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Hand-eye coordination and dexterity are necessary for this course as sharp knives are used in the cutting of board and paper.
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You will be shown correct procedure in the use of these tools, but good coordination will assure accurate cutting and prevention of injury.
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The bindery opens at 9 am.
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Tea and coffee is supplied and there will be a lunch break of 30 minutes. It is recommended you bring your lunch, as shops and cafes are a distance away.
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There is a kitchen adjacent to the bindery.
Changing your enrolment:
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you withdraw from a course less than 72 hours prior to the start, you may have a credit. No refund will be offered.
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If you withdraw from a course more than 72 hours prior to the start, you may have a credit or choose to receive a full refund
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If you withdraw after the course begins, you are not entitled to a credit or refund.
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In cases where you are unable to attend due to illness or injury, you may receive a credit