A Free Live Workshop: Bookbinding 101

Make Your First Handmade Book (Even If You've Never Tried Bookbinding)

A free, beginner-friendly workshop - February 2–8 (replays included)

✔️ Finish a beginner book you’ll be proud of

✔️ No fancy tools or experience needed

✔️ Live Q&A + recordings if you can’t attend live

✔️ Learn the PACS Method: Paper • Adhesive • Covers • Stitches

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Free to join • Replays included • Beginner-friendly
⭐ Thousands of beginners have started here
🕒 Live instruction + support
📩 Printables + E-books

What is Bookbinding 101?

Bookbinding 101 is a free live online workshop for beginners.

In 4 simple sessions, you’ll learn the basics and create your first handmade book — no experience required. 

In this workshop you’ll learn how to:

• choose paper that works
• glue cleanly (no warping!)
• make simple covers
• stitch your pages together

Want a peek at what’s possible? Take a look at the video to the right to see what previous participants created during Bookbinding 101. 

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Tools & Supplies

This event is designed for beginners using simple supplies you likely already have at home. There’s no need to rush out and buy specialty tools or expensive materials.

Here’s what you might use during the week:

  • Copy paper, sketch or drawing paper, even upcycled paper for your pages
  • Decorative paper, such as scrapbook, handmade, wrapping paper or even magazine pages, for your cover
  • A craft knife, a ruler and pencil
  • A sewing needle and embroidery floss - beeswax is a bonus
  • Something to poke holes—like an awl or large needle
  • A bone folder or old credit/hotel key card

We recommend you watch the first class before buying anything—you’ll see exactly how each tool is used, and chances are, you already have a perfect substitute in your stash!

We believe creativity isn’t about having the “perfect” supplies. It’s about showing up, exploring, and making something that matters—with what you have on hand.

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This is For You If...

  • You’ve been curious about bookbinding but didn’t know where to start. 

  • You feel overwhelmed by YouTube tutorials and want clear, simple direction.

  • You’ve made books before but want a refresh and a confidence boost.

  • You love learning new crafts and want a creative outlet that’s both relaxing and fulfilling.

     

You'll Leave With...

  • A finished handmade book -- and the confidence to continue making them.

  • A clear understanding of paper, adhesives, covers, and stitching.

  • Answers to all of your bookbinding questions.

  • A taste of what it's like to create in a supportive community.

  • Suggestions on how you can expand your new bookmaking skills.  

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Hi, I'm Ali Manning.

I started my book journey over 20 years ago, making simple accordion books for my daughter. What began as a creative outlet quickly grew into a deep love for the ancient craft of bookbinding.

The road to learning this art wasn’t easy—information was scattered, instructions were often confusing, and the whole world of bookbinding felt a little too serious. That’s why I created Bookbinding 101: a fun, accessible starting point for anyone who wants to dive in without feeling overwhelmed.

My mission is to make bookbinding approachable and joyful. Bookbinding 101 brings together everything you need to get started in one clear, confidence-building place—so you can skip the struggle and jump straight into making beautiful, handmade books.

See you there!