Pietro will teach the fundamentals of functional and decorative box construction. Using hard binders’ board and marbled fabric, you will learn to construct the most elegant of archival box structures: the Clamshell. By mastering the basic template for these box models, you will gain the necessary skills for other varieties of boxes, while also enhancing your bookbinding skills. There will be many beautiful, one-of-a-kind marbled fabrics from which to choose to cover your unique box. This class will add an excellent set of skills and knowledge to any crafter’s repertoire.

On the second day of class, you will create an “indestructible cover” – inspired by Italy’s 1970’s solution to broken Yellow Pages bindings in public phone booths, this 360-degree flexible binding offers many advantages because it bends and does not break! This binding style offers visual and tactile delight, employing strips of articulated hard board covered with marbled fabric. In this workshop, the instructor will guide you through the art of this rare binding technique. You will create an articulated blank journal that can beautifully withstand the ravages of time.

Skill level: All levels

Tuition: $370, $755 if taken with Marbling on Paper and Textiles

Lab Fee: $25, includes kit of materials. (If students bring their own fabric at least 23×36”: lab fee $12

Enrollment limited to 10 students