Join Bookbinding 101
A FREE 4-Day Workshop for Beginners Who Want to Start Making Beautiful Handmade Books With Confidence
Join us for a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to bookbinding using the PACS method:
Paper • Adhesive • Covers • Stitches
Learn step-by-step, ask questions live, and walk away with a finished book you’ll be proud of.
What is Bookbinding 101?
Parts of a Book
Get familiar with the must-know vocabulary of bookbinding! In this module, we break down all the confusing terms that make up the anatomy of a book—like head & tail, hinge, joint, signatures—so you’ll feel confident and ready to start.
All About Paper Grain
Learn how to identify paper grain and why it’s crucial for bookbinding. This simple but powerful concept can make the difference between a book that lays flat and one that fights back.
Making Signatures
Discover how to fold, stack, and prep your pages into a tidy booklet called a signature. This is the core of many book structures—and it’s easier than you think.
How to Choose the Right Paper
Not all paper is created equal. In this module, you’ll learn how to choose paper that works beautifully for covers and pages —without wasting time or money.
Knots You Need to Know
Master the three essential knots every bookbinder should know. These sturdy, easy-to-learn techniques will keep your books secure and long-lasting.
Book Board 101
Get crisp, clean cuts every time. You’ll learn how to measure and cut book board to make strong, professional-looking covers that perfectly fit your pages.
Making an Accordion Book
Fold your way to a versatile and fun book structure! This hands-on module walks you through making an 8-panel accordion book—perfect for zines, art books, or simple journals.
Neat Covers
Finish strong! In this final module, you’ll assemble a beautiful hard cover from start to finish, complete with neat corners, crisp folds, and a polished look you’ll be proud of.
Answers to Common Questions
In this bonus module, we tackle the most common beginner questions—from what thread you should use to making your own book cloth—so you can move forward with confidence.
What is Bookbinding 101?
Bookbinding 101 is a free, live online workshop designed to take the mystery out of bookmaking and help you confidently create your first handmade book—no experience (or fancy tools!) required.
Over four live sessions, you’ll follow a simple roadmap—PACS: Paper, Adhesive, Covers, Stitches—and discover how easy and rewarding bookbinding can be.
You’ll leave Bookbinding 101 with at least one finished single-signature book… and a brand new creative spark.
JOIN NOWTools & 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.
JOIN NOW
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 Boot Camp: 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 Boot Camp 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!