Workshop Details:

Level:

Beginners

Duration:

5.5 hours (10am – 4pm)

Location:

Lipstown Upper, Narraghmore, Co. Kildare, Ireland


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Take part in a creative book-binding workshop

Learn the Coptic Stitch technique of bookbinding with Angelina Foster at Blueway Art Studio. Angelina will guide you to bind your own fabric-clothed journal or sketchbook. Coptic stitch is particularly great for sketchbooks as the pages open completely flat so you can draw or write across the 2 pages. It is also great if you are trying to find a way to visually document or collate a project.

Often associated with medieval bookbinding, Coptic stitch actually dates from Egypt in the 2nd century (the Copts).

With a choice of artist and writing paper, your book is a step in your own story. You will also bind a small single signature softcover notebook, using a choice of naturally dyed botanical covers or feel free to bring your own artwork. There is something very special about binding your own sketchbook, notebook or diary. If you keep a diary, like to write or sketch this is a perfect way to connect with your thoughts.

All materials included (we will be using a variety of quality recycled papers, Japanese Awagami papers, lined papers, book cloth, waxed thread, non-toxic screen printing inks & screens, rubber-based letterpress ink) Tea, coffee, biccies included

You make your book from start to finish, choosing your own papers and covers. Feel free to bring your own paper with sketches, writing, photos and anything you wish to include.

This workshop can be adapted to a 1/2 day for groups (where the prep is done, covers are pre-made and papers folded)

Workshop highlights:

  • Learn the Coptic stitch technique of bookbinding.
  • Choose papers, covers, and inks to suit your project.
  • Create a beautiful notebook you can take home.
  • All materials included

FAQs

What’s included in the price?

Just bring yourself! All materials, and tea and coffee are included. If you’re

You may either bring your own lunch or opt for the local community café – known as the Old Hardware. It’s a great place to find hand-made scones or cakes, and Mel’s Gastro Pub across the road from the Blueway Studio, serves food from 2pm at the weekends and from 5pm during the week.There are lots of options for things to do, places to stay, eat and drink in nearby Athy too.

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothes and shoes are ideal for this workshop, where we will be working with inks. Wear things you won’t mind picking up marks!

How accessible is the workshop?

Blueway Art Studio is on the ground floor so there are no stairs to climb. However, it’s an old building with a smaller than usual door so not all wheelchairs fit through.

You might not believe it, but everyone is creative! Some of the people who join us at the workshops may be practising creatives and others will be absolute beginners. All are welcome! You just need to bring an open mind and you will create something you will cherish.

What Our Participants Say

“Wonderful how story and history of medieval times in the area are revived and animated through this artist’s method – the monkey the mermaid and the gateway to heaven all just fascinating.”

YouTube Review February 2022

— SO Whelton —

“This is a really fascinating film, incredible to think of lithographs been made in Antarctica at this time.Thanks for the lithography demonstration. The whole project is so interesting ,thank you.”

YouTube Review January 2022

— Carol Kennedy —

“I never knew how prints were made or anything about lithography. I can’t believe they did this in Antarctica. I’m a huge Shackleton fan and this is a completely different insight for me. This is fascinating. Thanks for demonstrating”

YouTube Review January 2022

— Experiencing Ireland —

“Brilliant afternoon with Angelina.Spent a sunny afternoon with Angelina at Kilkea Castle. Learnt the art of grave rubbing – Angelina is a great teacher. She is patient, highly skilled and great fun. We all came away with something we’d made in the two hours”

Trip Advisor Review August 2021

— AnitaBreak41 —

“A very infomative and pleasant experience. Angelina was an excellent teacher. The practical, hands on experience allowed me to learn as we worked. Delighted with the results of the process”

Google Review June 2021

— Cristeen Kilkenny—

“Thank you angelina for a really great course on ecoprinting on japanese paper you were very generous with your knowledge and i had great fun. And so glad i could buy that awagami japanese paper from you wow its gorgeous”

Google Review June 2021

— Deirdre Crofts —

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