Bookbinding
With Teaching Artist Myburgh Truter
Monthly 3-Session Workshops
Local teaching artist Myburgh Truter creates beautiful artisan-made journals, sketchbooks and notebooks for writing and drawing enthusiasts. A talented instructor, he looks forward to guiding you in learning his craft and creating your own one-of-a kind, handmade book!
Each workshop offers the opportunity to learn the steps involved in completing a beautiful A5 hardcover notebook, sketchbook or journal. Bookbinding materials are provided, but you are welcome to bring your preferred papers and materials; additional necessary tools and materials are detailed in the workshop supply list below.
Workshop Days & Times:
September Session
Wednesday, September 17, 6-9pm
Thursday, September 18, 6–9pm
Saturday, September 20, 10am–2pm
October Session
Wednesday, October 22, 6-9pm
Thursday, October 23, 6–9pm
Saturday, October 25, 10am–2pm
November Session
Wednesday, November 12, 6-9pm
Thursday, November 13, 6–9pm
Saturday, November 15, 10am–2pm
Workshop Description:
Embark on your bookbinding journey with this introductory lesson. You will learn essential terminology and bookbinding lingo, explore all things paper, and get acquainted with the key tools of the trade. We will cover the saddle stitch sewing technique, and learn two new sewing techniques: French Link Stitch and Kettle Stitch.
As you advance through the steps toward your finished journal, you further refine your skills by folding and sewing signatures to form an A5 textblock. Add a placeholder ribbon, and create headbands to enhance your book’s design. We will also explore spine security techniques.
Continue your journey by finalizing the sewn textblock. You design and complete your book cover and learn how to case in your textblock for a polished finish.
Student Supply List:
Please come with the following basic bookbinding tools:
• Bone folder
• Metal ruler (preferable with a cork backing)
• Pencil
• Self-healing cutting mat
• A thin awl
• Scissors
• Curved needle
• Box cutter
• Clamps (example in the link)
• Glue brush (example in the link)
• Comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting glue stains on, or an apron if you prefer.
Instructor-Supplied Workshop Materials:
All bookbinding material and thread will be provided by the instructor, but you are welcome to bring your preferred papers and materials.
Please Note:
• A discounted rate of $165 includes a 3-day workshop, as well as materials.
• You are more than welcome to bring along any paper, non-stretch fabric with paper backing, book cloth, text paper, etc. for your final project in each class.
Registration:
We’re happy to register you by phone (425.483.7385), in person, or you may fill out the form at righ. For more information about Myburgh’s classes, or to be added to our email list, please email or call Willard Art & Frame.
Location:
Classes meet at Willard Art & Frame.
Meet Your Instructor: Teaching Artist Myburgh Truter of Graystorm Studio
After struggling with depression and anxiety, Myburgh decided to take a break from a high-flying, ever-demanding corporate path. This decision marked a significant turning point for him, as it allowed him to pursue his passion for penmanship, beautiful notebooks and journals.
“Choosing the ‘road less traveled’ doesn’t come with a roadmap. The only way to rediscover yourself is to go right through it, to feel it, and to have the faith and conviction that something mind-blowingly incredible is waiting on the other side.
It was during one of these long walks—navigating through moments of floating, falling, and drifting—that Graystorm Studio was born. My love for writing has always been intertwined with my fascination for notebooks, inspired by classics such as Moleskine and LEUCHTTURM1917, among others. I crafted my first notebook in November 2022. Since then, I have continued on this creative endeavor, fueled by a deep passion and commitment.