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BINDING re:DEFINED 2026 Programme
all classes run from 10am - 4/5ish
Below is the lineup for the
2026 programme,
more classes may follow,
keep an eye out.
Simply Paper March 5th - 6th
Flex Spine Binding April 16th - 18th
Jean de Gonet May 5th - 9th
Woven Structures June 16th - 19th
Pop-Up Box September 8th - 11th
Simply Paper
(or, how to dress up your paperback)
Lori Sauer March 5th -6th £235.00
There are basically two types of commercial paperback bindings: those where the back folds of the sections have been sliced off and then the spine is glued up with a layer of adhesive; or the more up-market type that have been sewn in sections but still lathered with a thick layer of glue. Both have flat backs with the paper cover stuck directly onto the spine. In time, the glued spines of these bindings break down, pages fall out and the text-block becomes concave.
This workshop is about giving paperbacks a fresh, contemporary look with a robust structure before these problem set in. There is minimal intervention to the original, a hollow is added and the covers are more secure. Sewn paperbacks in particular are given a whole new lease of life.
At least two approaches will be demonstrated with enough of the principle outlined for participants to apply their knowledge for future projects. And it's all done in paper.
Experience required.
Flex Spine Binding
Kylin Lee April 16th - 18th £335.00
The Flex Spine Binding offers a fresh and contemporary approach to the codex form. Originally conceived as an album structure, the Flex Spine Binding is an intriguingly simple yet elegant and versatile binding technique. It allows for an uninhibited opening of the pages and can be adapted to a wide variety of materials, page and paper thicknesses. The text block is constructed entirely without adhesives or spine lining and relies on thin, rigid rods to form the ‘backbone’ of signatures or individual folios. The signatures are then woven together with bands or tapes giving the exposed spine a clean and contemporary appearance.
In this three-day workshop, we will cover the fundamentals of the Flex Spine Binding and explore its practical applications—for example, as an album or as a structure for pop-up books. We’ll also take a look at its sculptural possibilities and potential for creative reinterpretation.
Experience required.
The Style of Jean de Gonet
Suzanne Schmollgruber May 5th - 9th £545.00
Suzanne last brought this masterclass to the UK in 2018 and BrD is delighted to see its return. During the week participants will complete a half leather binding in the style of Jean de Gonet, a French binder who revolutionised the bibliophile community with his unique style.
Working originally as a graphic artist, de Gonet soon dedicated himself to bookbinding and developed an exciting new technique where the structural aspects of the binding become integral to the design. This class expertly lays out the techniques required to achieve striking results and an invaluable grounding for individual projects.
The binding created in this workshop features exposed sewing paired with leather sewing supports and headbands. The cover boards are designed separately from the book block, and it is here, at the attachment of the boards where design and structure are brought together.
Experience required.
Woven Structures
Jan Zimmerlich June 16th - 19th £495.00
Jan will share his binding techniques that are visually intriguing and extremely inventive. His approach is an ongoing process, developed through years of experimentation. Rather than concentrating on a single text, participants produce a set of maquettes, useful for reference and further development. The results are exclusive pieces that don’t follow conventional patterns but blend seamlessly with the traditional.
This is the first time Jan has led a workshop in the UK. Come along to immerse yourself in four days of producing genuinely exceptional, contemporary bindings.
Experience required.
Pop-Up Box
Rahel Scheufele September 8th - 11th £495.00
This sophisticated pop-up box definitely leaves a lasting impression: as if moved by an invisible hand, the binding is lifted up toward the viewer, instinctively inviting them to pick up the book.
Connected by a special ribbon mechanism, the clamshell box and slipcase work together. If time allows, Rahel will discuss possible decorative techniques such as cutouts and Tyvek and paper mosaic. As a special extra, specially manufactured woven ribbons can be incorporated, making each piece a unique work of art.
Experience required.
