Linking to the Past: 3 historical link stitches
Dates | Saturdays | 3 weeks |
5 pre-recorded video tutorials with PDF instructions posted each Saturday at 9:00 am ET. Access to a private chat area for questions and comments.
The instructor’s teaching models illustrating the possibilities after taking the class.
Participants of this workshop will make three books that highlight historical link stitches on the books’ spines. The Diagonal Link, the Circle Link, and the Skip Station Link Stitch are the patterns that will be covered. All stitched elements are constructed as the book is sewn, making the sewing both functional and decorative. Back plates of thick leather keep the spine from concaving. Bonnie will introduce different ways the leather can be embellished if you choose. Each book will have a distinctive fore-edge flap treatment.
All three books are five inches in height with 40 folios of Arches Text Wove. The cover paper is heavyweight flax paper. The size will allow us to focus on the different sewing patterns while providing skills for future books.
Open to all; but helpful if you already have previously sewn a book.
Sign up now. Class size is limited.
In this course you will:
- learn three link stitch sewing patterns so that you can use this knowledge for your own contemporary books
- learn a multitude of ways to decorate the leather back plate to enliven the design of your books
- gain confidence to create your own sewing patterns and templates
- improve your technique by incorporating Bonnie’s tricks for successful bookbinding
The fee includes:
- 5 videos of instruction concentrated into easy-to-follow steps
- 2 bonus videos
- a supply kit with all the pre-cut materials you need to bind three books
- 6 handouts, PDF format
- 3 sets of templates and jigs (included in the supply kit)
- private discussion area
The handout information and the videos are the equivalents of a five-day in-person workshop. The demonstrations are filmed with the camera overhead so you can get an excellent view of the action.
Format of the online course:
Pre-recorded video tutorials and PDF handouts will be posted on Saturday mornings. Once they are released, you can work at your convenience to complete the lesson before moving on to the next lesson on the following Saturday. During the week, Bonnie will be checking messages in the discussion area to address any questions or comments. You will have access to the videos for ninety days. The handouts are downloadable and are yours for lifetime.
Schedule:
Tutorials posted Saturdays at 9 am ET.
Week 1: Introduction and History of Link Stitch Books video
Pertinent Information video
Book One – Diagonal Link Stitch tutorial video
Week 2: Book Two – Circle Link Stitch tutorial video
Week 3: Book Three – Skip Station Link Stitch tutorial video
Tool list:
The tools needed for this course are minimal. They include pencils (graphic and white lead), scissors, bone folder, ruler, triangle, binder’s clips, cutting knife, cutting mat, a book weight, needles, awls, and a punching cradle. Don’t worry if you don’t have a cradle; Bonnie will show you how to make an easy one when you sign up. (An optional tool is a drill and a 1/16-inch drill bit.)
A detailed list regarding the tools sizes and vendors will be shared when you register for the course.
Testimonials from Students of Bonnie's Online Classes:
The videos were delivered in sizable portions and clearly presented – a real talent. I appreciate that I could rewatch them as many times as I needed. I also found how the other students had solved problems to be inspiring. Dr. Cindy Bixler Borgmann
I was skeptical about taking a class online but was so eager to participate in another class with you that I flung skepticism to the wind . . . thank goodness! It was so well organized, great communication, excellent videos, plus I've really enjoyed the interaction with everybody else who took the class. Thank you! Kristy Spann
Have Questions? Please contact Bonnie.
The supply kits will be mailed mid May. Sign up now to get yours in time.
Registrations may not be shared and are non-transferable.
This class is only open to US students.
Your Instructor
Bonnie Stahlecker
My artistic life began with the book as the vehicle to carry my creative expression. I now create both artist’s books and sculptures.
One of the strongest talents I have as an instructor is my organizational skills and the ability to share information in easy, understandable steps. I have a passion for art and a considerable amount of knowledge and experience to share. Over the years, I have honed my skills and knowledge to serve my workshop participants better. In 2000 I took private bookbinding lessons and researched historical book models. Since then, I have adapted the techniques to make my own artwork and offer my innovations to others. I look forward to sharing my expertise and wisdom with you in my online courses.