Hand-bound books created in a beginner bookbinding class at Writing NSW
AU$319.00
Next: Sat, 02 May 9:30AM (AEST)

Bookbinding for Beginners


Learn bookbinding fundamentals with this hands-on course presented in partnership with the NSW Guild of Craft Bookbinders. Rediscover the traditional art of hand bookbinding in the professional Ralph Lewis Bindery at Writing NSW in Callan Park.

Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to refine their craft, this course introduces techniques for creating a variety of handmade books. Work with professional materials and tools and leave with your own custom bound creations.

Learning Outcomes

  • Two single-section stitched booklets including a bound copy of 'The Alchemy of Bookbinding'
  • A hardcover concertina photo album and a French-stitched notebook
  • A Japanese four-hole pouch binding (time permitting)

Course Outline

  • Bookbinding terminology and essential techniques
  • Measuring, cutting, folding, gluing, stitching skills
  • Safe handling of paper and tools, from professional to DIY

Additional Information

  • All materials provided; beginner tool kits available for purchase
  • Bring your own lunch and apron (optional — clean ones available)
  • Must wear closed-in shoes (safety requirement)

Schedule & Pricing

  • Duration: 2-day courses, 9:30am – 4:00pm
  • Price: $319 – $339 depending on session
  • Upcoming Dates (Active):
    • 28–29 Feb 2026
    • 28–29 Mar 2026
    • 2–3 May 2026
    • 23–24 May 2026
    • 4–5 Jul 2026

Details

6 hours 30 minutes

You will learn

  • Understand essential bookbinding terminology
  • Develop basic measuring, cutting, and stitching skills
  • Gain hands-on experience using traditional tools

You will get

  • Several completed hand-bound books
  • All bookbinding materials provided
  • Optional access to discounted beginner's tool kit

Appropriate for

Complete beginners and those seeking to refresh skills, ages 18+. Must have fine motor skills and confidence using sharp tools.


Preparation

What to bring

  • Your own lunch
  • Optional apron (clean ones available)
  • Closed-in shoes (required for safety)

What to wear

Casual with closed-in shoes


Your Teacher

Sydney Community College

Sydney Community College

38 reviews

Sydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors

The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.

We do this by:

  • Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
  • Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
  • Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
  • Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
  • Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.

Terms

Cancellations & Refunds

If the organiser cancels the class:

You are entitled to a full refund.

If you can't attend the class:

You’re welcome to send someone in your place.

OR

  • A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.

Terms & Conditions

At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.  

At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.

That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably.  Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:

Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

 Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued.  If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.

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