Secret Belgian binding
Suitable for all levels. Great introduction course!
Course description
TUTOR: Michelle Vandermeer DATE: Saturday 7th February 2026 TIME: 10.00am – 4.00pm Try your hand at making a hardcover A5-sized journal with Secret Belgian binding, featuring fancy paper-wrapped covers hand-stitched together with a distinctively graphic thread pattern criss-crossing the spine. In this workshop all materials are provided, and you can choose from a variety of interesting and decorative papers to cover your book boards (and spine), plus an assortment of different papers for the book’s pages within. And with waxed-linen bookbinding thread provided in a wide choice of colours, you’ll be able to make a uniquely personalised book. The main feature of Secret Belgian bound books is their horizontally linear pattern of coloured thread sewn over and between the spine and the two covers, holding the cover boards together without any need for glue. The ‘secret’ part is how the page sections are then cleverly stitched inside the spine, creating a sturdy hinged binding that enables the book to open completely flat, perfect for journals, notebooks, albums, scrapbooks and sketchbooks. 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 a variety of Secret Belgian bound books (in different sizes, formats, and materials) and draw inspiration from the variations and possibilities. All tools 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 Secret Belgian bound 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
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