Bookbinding: experiments in paper folding
Time: 10:30 - 16:30
Location: Keeley Street
- Course Code: VD419
- Dates: 08/06/24 - 15/06/24
- Time: 10:30 - 16:30
- Taught: Sat, Daytime
- Duration: 2 sessions (over 2 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Ina Baumeister
Course Code: VD419
Duration: 2 sessions (over 2 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
On this course you will learn how to fold, cut, layer and sculpt paper to make a collection of books based on experimental structures. We will experiment with different types of paper, exploring texture, colour and weight and a range of folding and slotting techniques. This course is suitable for beginners and those interested in exploring experimental folded forms in bookbinding.
What will we cover?
- paper and grain direction
- folding origami, concertina, simple slotted and more complex forms
- Cutting, slotting, layering, piercing and other ways of using paper creatively
- The sculptural qualities of paper
- Contemporary book arts and artists.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Use basic bookbinding tools safely and effectively.
- Fold a range of books based on traditional and experimental structures
- Explore paper cutting and layering
- Explore colour, texture and weights in paper folding
- Design and create your own simple and complex book forms
- Explore contemporary book arts and artists to enhance and develop your own work.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is aimed at beginners or those who wish to build up their knowledge of techniques. You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and for health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to do simple measurements and calculations.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Through demonstration, practice and discussion you will be taught as a group and individually as required. Handouts will accompany demonstrations. You will be encouraged to investigate the current and historical literature on the subject, and will be informed of publications and events which maybe of interest. The course is structured to manage the work within the class but preparation work on individual ideas may need to be carried out outside course time.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
All materials are included in the cost of the course and tools are provided. As the course develops, you may wish to bring in your won papers to experiment with. Please bring a sharp pencil, notebook and pen to each class as you might wish to make your own notes to supplement the course handouts.
Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.
To get an LGC discount card, students will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment of them being a student at City Lit. You can apply for our card in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. The student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Suitable courses may be:
VD355 Bookbinding weekend: notebooks and folders
VD441 Creative arts for bookbinding III: Paper cutting
VD438 Print, Design and Bind: A book in a week
VD327 Bookbinding: box making
VD416 Bookbinding: Japanese books and boxes.
Ina is a professional bookbinder and box-maker. She holds an MA in Book Art from UAL Camberwell and a master-craftsmanship from the German Crafts Council and Guild of Bookbinders in Munich. As a binder she works with contemporary arts organisation Book Works, the Tate Paper and Photography conservation department as well as other organisations and clients. Most of her work life is closely linked to contemporary art, art publishing and the creative industries. Besides working professionally as a bookbinder for nearly twenty years, Ina teaches and lectures for universities all over London on a wide range of courses, such as photography, printmaking, design, illustration, fine art and architecture. Ina also delivers tailored staff training to universities and other institutions such as the Tate and Houses of Parliament. Ina says that she rates bookbinding as an art in itself but also sees it as part of a toolkit for a wide range of creative professions.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.