Beginner’s Bookbinding

This one-day workshop is ideal for hobbyists looking to learn a new skill.

The workshop exploits various methods to create soft cover bindings, encouraging an experimental approach to scrolls, unfolding pages, unusual stitches and sculptural formats.

Participants will explore a range of unique binds using professional tools and beautifully coloured papers, designing and creating 6-10 multi-purpose pieces to take home or gift.

Materials are provided, but participants may wish to bring their own papers, ribbons and buttons to create a truly bespoke piece.

Full accompanying instructions are provided, so techniques taught can be accomplished at home following the course, with ease and minimum expense.

About the tutor

A dedicated artist and regular exhibitor, Helen’s work is primarily focused on traditional printmaking practices, informed by direct drawing techniques. Collaged and hybrid pieces have become a point of interest; the exploration of drawing technique for digital manipulation in moving image, the use of hybrid printmaking methods for the creation of bespoke book arts, and 18th century methods for glazing sculptural ceramic forms. Current works exist in both public and private collections, notably in Blackchurch Print Studio, Cork and Limerick Printmaking Archives, NIVAL, The Linenhall Library, The University of Ulster Faculty of Arts 120th Anniversary Archive, University College Dublin, and Queen’s University, Belfast.

Helen graduated with a combined Diploma and BA (hons) in Fine and Applied Art (University of Ulster, 2009), receiving the Dennis Kelly Award for Drawing (ASU), the Belfast Print Workshop Student Award, Graduate selection by the Royal Ulster Academy and The John and Rachel Turner Prize. She was recognised for her printmaking practice with an award from Hamilton Architects (RUA, 2010), and studied classical anatomy through an intensive course in Kensington Palace, awarded by the Prince’s Trust. She has received SIAP funding from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland (2010-16), project support from Belfast City Council and the Lisburn Arts Advisory Committee (2013, 2015), and completed residencies with Digital Arts Studios (2014), the Tyrone Guthrie Centre (2015, 2016), and the BOOM collective in Bangor (2017).