Hardcover Bookmaking Workshop

Discover the art of handmade books in this hardcover accordion bookmaking workshop.

We’ll begin with an introduction to book arts, including key concepts and vocabulary, before diving into the creative process. You’ll learn folding techniques to construct a strong, flowing accordion structure, select papers and cover boards that suit your aesthetic, and explore debossing methods to add subtle texture and depth.

From there, we’ll incorporate personal content—gluing in text, stenciling illustrations, and developing a visual narrative across the folds. You’ll assemble your book step by step, attaching the accordion to front and back covers and finishing with carefully applied endpapers. We’ll also discuss front cover design, helping you create a cohesive, thoughtful final piece.

Schedule: Monday, July 13, 1pm - 4pm

Course Fee: $75, all materials included

Location: 23 N. Ferry Road

NOTE: No experience required, but some crafting or origami experience is helpful.

Age: 16+

What You'll Learn

You’ll gain a strong foundation in both the technical and creative aspects of bookmaking, from structure and assembly to surface design. Along the way, you’ll build confidence in your craftsmanship and leave with skills you can apply to future handmade book projects.

By the end of the class, you’ll leave with a completed hardcover accordion book and the skills to continue making your own.

No previous experience required, but some crafting or origami experience is helpful.

Materials List

All materials included. No experience necessary, just bring your curiosity and willingness to play!

Meet Your Instructor

  • After a career teaching English as a Second Language, Joe Reilly retired to the Hudson Valley and began seriously to pursue two passions: painting and making books by hand (artist books).

    Largely self-taught, he has been drawing and painting since childhood.  He works from direct observation, i.e. not from photographs, in various media, including acrylic, oil, gouache, and watercolor.  He has been exhibiting and selling paintings since the early 1990s. He has exhibited in museums, galleries and other venues in New Jersey and New York.

    In 1998 he took his first class in hand bookbinding, which exposed him to the world of book arts.  He was hooked, and has been making, exhibiting and selling his books ever since.

    Mr Reilly’s paintings and books are in private collections across the United States and in several countries in Europe.