Kat Mergens

Make a custom hardcover book with sewn signatures on linen tapes using traditional bookbinding processes. Bradel bound books are unique in that the spine and cover boards are separate. The separate spine creates an opportunity for unique customization, including color and a variety of shapes, while also allowing easy repair in the event of the most common book failure: endsheet separation.

Students are encouraged to bring their own interior paper if they wish to create a watercolor, mixed media, or lined journal. The instructor will provide blank archival, 25% cotton paper (Mohawk Superfine 80T soft-white, eggshell finish) for an approximately A5 sketchbook. It handles pencil, pen, ink, and marker with remarkable flexibility and resistance to bleed-through. Students are also encouraged to bring any papers, book cloth, or other material they want to incorporate into the book’s construction.

No previous experience required. You’ll learn everything you need to make hard cover books at home.

Participants will come away with:

• A custom hardcover Bradel bound book with sewn signatures on linen tapes

• The skills to make hard cover books at home

• Tools to keep: awl, bone folder, glue brush, and PVA glue jar

Class Details

Date: Saturday - Sunday, March 13th - 14th, 2027

Duration: 5 hours each day, 10am-4pm (includes 1 hour lunch break)

Class size: 8 students

Cost: $225 + $45 materials fee

Studio provided

• Tables, cutting mats, rulers

Student provided

• Box cutter (Stanley style)

• Pencil

Instructor provided (materials fee)

• Book cloth (student provided if a specific color or material match is requested)

• Interior paper: Mohawk Superfine 80T soft white, eggshell finish

• Mulberry paper and tarlatan

• Linen thread, tapes, and sewing needles

• Binder’s board, backing boards, and spare blades

• Book press

Email kmergens@protonmail.com with any questions or accessibility needs.