Leather-bound cross-stitch binding

Suitable for all levels.

Starts 8 Feb 2026

From 225 Australian dollars

The Bindery

Course description

TUTOR: Michelle Vandermeer DATE: 8th February 2026 TIME: 10.00am – 4.00pm Learn how to make a classic soft-cover leatherbound journal, with your choice of papers inside, hand-sewn with coloured thread, and using a traditional technique known as cross-structure binding. In this workshop all materials are provided, and you can choose from a variety of supple coloured/textured leathers, an assortment of different papers for the book’s pages, and a colourful range of waxed-linen bookbinding thread, all coming together to make a unique and personalised journal. Cross-structure binding has been around since medieval times, and is distinguished by separate front and back covers, with the sections of pages sewn onto the back-cover’s leather 'fingers', either leaving the colourful stitching exposed or concealing it behind a spine panel of leather (both styles are taught in this class - your choice of which you'd prefer to make). Additionally, the two leather covers can be matching in colour, or they can be contrasting colours to make a feature of the ‘fingers’. Ideal for complete beginners, as well as those who would like to expand their range of bookbinding techniques. You'll be able to examine a wide range of finished examples of cross-structure leatherbound books (in different sizes, formats, and materials) and draw inspiration from the variations and possibilities. All tools and materials are provided as part of the workshop, but you are welcome to bring your own items from home (i.e. a metal ruler, craft knife, pencil, awl, bonefolder), and any sheets of fancy/coloured/found papers if you want to use these in your book. Comprehensive instructions and templates are also included, to enable you to continue making more leather cross-structure books at home. Hand-eye coordination and dexterity are necessary for this course as sharp knives are used in the cutting of board and paper. You will be shown correct procedure in the use of these tools, but good coordination will assure accurate cutting and prevention of injury.

Course details

Contact Details

info@nswbookbinders.org

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To be covered by our insurance policy, please:

Remember to sign in when you enter the bindery and sign out when you leave.
Always wear closed-in shoes, NO sandals.
Only use equipment if you have received instruction from a monitor or teacher.

Also:

Hand-eye coordination and dexterity are necessary for this course as sharp knives are used in the cutting of board and paper.
You will be shown correct procedure in the use of these tools, but good coordination will assure accurate cutting and prevention of injury.
The bindery opens at 9 am.
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.
There is a kitchen adjacent to the bindery.

Changing your enrolment:

you withdraw from a course less than 72 hours prior to the start, you may have a credit. No refund will be offered.
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
If you withdraw after the course begins, you are not entitled to a credit or refund.
In cases where you are unable to attend due to illness or injury, you may receive a credit