Handmade journals are a joy to use for anything and everything, any day, every day. Coptic binding is a historical method of constructing a book by sewing folded sections of paper and attaching them to hard covers. Bookbinders use this binding for its beauty with an exposed spine, functionality with pages that open flat, and historical roots to perpetuate time-honored traditions.

In this class, we will create a beautiful blank journal using Paired Needle Coptic Stitch, which is a specific form of Coptic binding that uses multiple needles and multiple threads. Your journal will have a lovely chain stitch at every sewing station, and it will be structurally strong and highly functional.

All materials and tools will be provided, so you can arrive empty handed and relax into the experience. If you already have personal bookbinding tools and find them most comfortable, please feel welcome to bring along. For the book covers, I’ll have a variety of decorative papers to choose from including Nepalese Lokta, Indian cotton, Japanese Chiyogami. If you prefer your own decorative paper, please feel welcome to bring along (for space and efficiency, please pre-cut the paper to 8.5” x 11”).

All skill levels welcome. I look forward to working together and reveling in the stitching goodness!

Erin studied art at Miami University, Ohio, and graduated with an M.A. in Art Education. She moved to the Blue Ridge Mountains and taught at Brevard Middle School earning National Board Certification in Visual Arts. In 2011, Erin moved into a new career stage, becoming a professional artist and instructor. She works daily at her home studio near Pisgah National Forest, and her adventures in the mountains, lakes, and rivers become embedded personally into her imagery.