Bookbinding workshop: Coptic binding and Slipcase

In this workshop, we learn how to make a Coptic bound book and a protective slipcase. The Coptic binding as a historical, non-adhesive structure, still popular today for its flexible and beautiful format. It has hard covers and exposed sewing on the spine and opens perfectly flat which makes it ideal to use as a notebook, sketchbook, photo album or to incorporate your own artwork or writing. In the second half of the workshop, we would be making a bookcloth covered slipcase designed to fit the Coptic book. The slipcase is an open-edged box that leaves the spine visible while protecting the book.

                               

I found that I was terribly poor at gluing something or making the case box, the tutor said the sewing of Coptic binding is the most complicated process in her book making experiences so far, but I felt that’s easier than making a case binding with multiple sections, it because I hate gluing I guess. The way binding might apply in my next project I think if it is suitable to use as its final outcome. Getting some inspiration is always the reason I attend the book workshop, the making process is slow and complicated but it definitely would be helpful when you decide to make a special book as well as it is useful on thinking the effect of supporting images and how it brings the result in overall.