Upcoming Classes
Please note that Museum Members receive 10% off the price of tuition. Advanced registration is required. Please call 713-522-4652 to register.
Learn more about our instructors!
Wet Collage Workshop
A wet collage is created by layering colored paper pulp and various textures onto a wet pulp foundation sheet. When pressed together and allowed to dry, the result can be displayed as a complete work of art or further altered with drawing or collaged elements. We will create at least one completed collage, but the potential is there to create more. Students should bring: scissors, metal or plastic straight edge, additives like newsprint, thread, well dried leaves or flowers, text, photos, photocopies--anything that will soak up water. Avoid glitter and plastic items-they won't incorporate well into the work.
Date: Saturday, March 13: 12pm-4pm
Instructor: Cynthia Mills
Level: all levels
Tuition: $60 plus $25 material fee
Paste Grain Papers
Borrowing from a 16th Century surface paper treatment, modern paste paper lends itself to a variety of artists’ needs. Surface treatments on a wide range of papers will be the starting point or end design for bookbinders, lettering artists, collage artists, picture framers and graphic designers. Both traditional and modern recipes will be used to achieve a variety of looks, such as patterns, textures, monoprints, repeat designs, along with blending and painting techniques – a full day of creating!
Date: Saturday, March 27: 10am-5pm
Instructor: Cindy Haller
Level: all levels
Tuition: $105 plus $25 materials fee
Creative Collage
It's not a scrapbook. . . . It's not a photo album. . . .It's not cute, fuzzy, or iridescent. . . . In this workshop, students will create an 11 X 14" collage made of found objects. Students are encouraged to find interesting textures of paper, text from magazines, newspapers, old letters, photos, or digital prints that can be torn or cut up. Other amendments can be dried leaves, feathers, wire, screen, mesh fabric. We will not use sequins, faux or real fur, fresh organic matter, dead critters, pre-cut dies, stickers, or shiny stuff. While the techniques learned can be adapted for scrapbooking (and the other way around), we will unique works of art that can be framed while having fun with some new friends. Students should bring: #2 pencil, fine tipped pens, scissors, #11 Xacto-knife, metal straight edge or ruler, tweezers, cutting board (thick tablet back works well), rolling pin or brayer for adhering papers, old phone book to use as a weight, a bag of amendments (dried leaves or leaf skeletons, feathers, wire, screen, mesh fabric, other delicate fabrics-nothing too heavy.)
Date: Saturday, April 10: 12pm-4pm
Instructor: Cynthia Millis
Level: all levels
Tuition: $60 plus $5 materials fee
Introduction to Lithography
Learn the basics of stone lithography from Charles Criner, the Museum’s Artist in Residence. In addition to learning the history of lithography, students will learn how to process a stone through graining the stone, applying an image, and then etching the stone. Students will print on the Museum’s 1830s starwheel lithography press, and then learn how to sign, number, and frame their lithographs.
Date: Tues-Fri, April 13-16: 6pm-8pm
Instructor: Charles Criner
Level: all levels
Tuition: $120 plus $15 materials fee
The Dunhuang Project Books
In this class we create replicas of the five different styles of books discovered in a cave along the famous Chinese Silk Road. These ancient book structures include the butterfly binding, stitched binding, the Chinese pothi, whirlwind binding, concertina binding, and the wrapped-back binding. We will use handmade papers and rice or mulberry papers to get as close of a feel of the original books as possible. More information on the books from the Dunhuang Project may be found here: http://idp.bl.uk/education/bookbinding/bookbinding.a4d
Date: Saturday, April 17: 10am-4pm
Instructor: Lee Steiner
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $20 materials fee
Introduction to Letterpress Printing
Learn the basics of setting type using the Vandercook proof press. Learn the california job case, set type, use a pica ruler and composing stick, mix ink, ink the press and print. After deciding on a theme, students pair off to produce either a broadside (a one-sheet poster) or card. We'll pull proofs, make corrections and print multiple copies; then we'll distribute type and spacing, and clean up.
Date: Saturday, April 17: 10am-4pm
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $15 materials fee
Digital Letterpress
Learn the basics of printing with photopolymer plates using the Vandercook proof press. We will mix ink, ink the press and print a series of cards. Using images and type from a collection provided, you will layout a greeting card of your own design. We'll print multiple copies and clean up. Photopolymer plate resources will be provided for you to order your own plates.
Date: Saturday, May 15: 10am-4pm
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $15 materials fee
Registration and Cancellation Policies
Space is limited--advanced registration is required. Current Museum members receive 10% off tuition only. Payment is due in full at the time of registration. You will receive a full refund or credit if you cancel your registration at least three business days before the first class meeting. If you cancel less than three business days before the first class meeting, or drop out of a class in progress, you will forfeit your full tuition. If the Museum must cancel a class due to under-enrollment, registered students will be notified 2 days in advance and will receive a full refund or credit.
Outreach Classes
In addition to regularly scheduled classes, we can work with your school or community group to schedule workshops on a wide range of topics relating to the art of the book. We have a list of workshops available on demand, or we may work together to design something special for your group. For questions, or to schedule your outreach workshop, please contact Amanda Stevenson, Curator, 713-522-4652, ext. 207.
Past classes
"Repurposed" Book Projects
This class presents ways to re-use "good" books gone "bad!" These projects are designed to show off our love of books and make use (or re-use) of their shape and format. Learn to use thrift shop books to create a Bird Bookhouse—an indoor birdhouse made from covered ragboard with an open book as the roof. Book Clocks—made from children's picture books, garden books, and retro classic books like The Hardy Boys. Book Photo Frames—made from covers with cool patterns, like the 1970s Reader's Digest Condensed Book Collections. These photo frames stand up by themselves and hold two photos. These “Repurposed” books make great gifts and conversation pieces.
Instructor: Lee Steiner
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $15 materials fee
Basic Book and Paper Repair
I have a book in bad shape, what do I do? Learn the answer to this common question in this two-day workshop. Students will be guided through the different steps in evaluating damage to a book, tips on handling them, decisions to make as far as the type of repair, the budget, the options and the right people to call. Participants will learn minor repair techniques that they can do at home, as well as the proper materials used to preserve treasured volumes. Students are welcome to bring a book with a problem to be approached and discussed during class.
Instructor: Lena LeMoal
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90
Book Arts Studio Summer
The Museum's four-day program introduces children to the arts of the book: during each day, we will explore a new craft, from papermaking to paste paper decoration, printmaking to bookbinding. Each participant will finish the week having completed a portfolio containing their work, including three fully bound artist's books.
Instructor:
Level: all levels
Tuition:
Bookbinding I
In this introduction to bookbinding, students will learn the basics of materials (book board, book cloth, adhesives, paper) and techniques (folding paper, cutting, sewing, and applying adhesives). By the end of the class, students will have completed 2 or maybe 3 projects, including a simple sewn pamphlet, flat-back case or journal binding, and a photo album.
Instructor: Armando Rodriguez
Level: all levels
Tuition: $270 plus $25 materials fee
Digital Letterpress
Learn the basics of printing with photopolymer plates using the Vandercook proof press. We will mix ink, ink the press and print a series of cards. Using images and type from a collection provided, you will layout a greeting card of your own design. We'll print multiple copies and clean up. Photopolymer plate resources will be provided for you to order your own plates.
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $15 materials fee
DIY Monotype
Enjoy learning some simple monotype techniques that will yield beautiful results right in your own kitchen or workspace. No fancy press needed! The best part is that the materials we will be using (right down to the ink) are environmentally friendly and safe! AKUA inks are water-soluble and pleasurable to work with. We will explore additive, subtractive, composite techniques along with pochoir and à la poupée
Instructor: Melanie Wade Leslie
Level: all levels
Tuition: $85 plus $30 materials fee
Hand Papermaking
Papermaking is an engaging and physical process that you can do right in your own home or workspace. Learn the basic elements of this ancient art as the instructor leads the class through the process of preparing the vat of pulp, pulling a sheet with a mould and deckle, couching the sheet, then pressing the paper. Each student will receive a sheaf of their handmade sheets and envelopes after they have completely dried. Participants should be prepared to get a bit wet as we are all in water up to our elbows.
Instructor: Kathy Gurwell
Level: all levels
Tuition: $45 plus $10 material fee
Hand Papermaking
Papermaking is an engaging and physical process that you can do right in your own home or workspace. Learn the basic elements of this ancient art as the instructor leads the class through the process of preparing the vat of pulp, pulling a sheet with a mould and deckle, couching the sheet, then pressing the paper. Each student will receive a sheaf of their handmade sheets and envelopes after they have completely dried. Participants should be prepared to get a bit wet as we are all in water up to our elbows.
Instructor: Kathy Gurwell
Level: all levels
Tuition: $45 plus $10 material fee
Holiday Papermaking
‘Tis the Season! Learn the basic elements of papermaking in this special holiday version. Students will learn the process of preparing the vat of pulp, pulling a sheet with a mould and deckle, couching the sheet, then pressing the paper. Holiday themed additives will be used to create unique sheets that can be used for holiday cards, gifts, collages, and many other fun projects. Each student will receive a sheaf of their handmade sheets and envelopes after they have completely dried. Participants should be prepared to get a bit wet as we are all in water up to our elbows.
Instructor: Kathy Gurwell
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $10 material fee
Holiday Pop-Up Cards
Learn Paper Engineering! Create holiday themed Pop-Up Cards, while learning basic techniques, terms, and a foundation for creative exploration. Each student will make three cards using mechanisms including pivot, generation, spring & more.
Instructor: Darla Hartmann
Level: all levels
Tuition: $45 plus $10 materials fee
Introduction to Letterpress Printing
Learn the basics of setting type using the Vandercook proof press. Learn the california job case, set type, use a pica ruler and composing stick, mix ink, ink the press and print. After deciding on a theme, students pair off to produce either a broadside (a one-sheet poster) or card. We'll pull proofs, make corrections and print multiple copies; then we'll distribute type and spacing, and clean up.
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $15 materials fee
Introduction to Lithography
Learn the basics of stone lithography from Charles Criner, the Museum’s Artist in Residence. In addition to learning the history of lithography, students will learn how to process a stone through graining the stone, applying an image, and then etching the stone. Students will print on the Museum’s 1830s starwheel lithography press, and then learn how to sign, number, and frame their lithographs.
Instructor: Charles Criner
Level: all levels
Tuition: $120 plus $15 materials fee
Let's Make a Box
Learn to make 2 box structures in this one-day workshop. A simple box will be constructed of a single sheet of card stock, cut, scored, and folded to produce a small gift box, which could be covered with decorative paper. The second box will be a more permanent structure. It will be cut from book board, the edges glued to form a sturdy box, which will be lined with decorative paper, and covered with bookcloth. A matching lid will be created. We will learn to determine grain direction, some cutting and gluing techniques, and methods of securing loose pieces during the gluing process, as well as the order of steps in the production process. No previous binding experience necessary.
Instructor: Ed Kopinitz
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $20 materials fee
Letterpress Business Cards
Learn the basics of setting type by hand and letterpress printing using the table-top platen press, still widely available on the market. Learn the california job case, set type, use a pica ruler and composing stick, mix ink, ink the press and print. Each student will set and print his or her own business card. We'll pull proofs, make corrections and print multiple copies; then we'll distribute type and spacing, and clean up.
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $15 materials fee
Letterpress Notecards and Handmade Envelopes
Learn the basics of letterpress printing on a tabletop press while creating a set of notecards. Far smaller than a Vandercook proof press, these upright presses are great for printing cards or small invitations. Students will have a selection of artwork and a variety of papers from which to choose. Templates for handmade envelopes will also be available. Please bring an apron and a pair of rubber or latex gloves.
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $10 materials fee
Longstitch and Tacket Binding
The Longstitch sewing technique makes a great travel journal. The name comes from the long running stitches that go up and down the spine. Not only does this wide spine lay open flat, the five signatures of paper inside give you plenty of room for easy sketching and writing. Our second book will feature a beautiful technique call Tacket Binding. Tacketing is an exposed binding (the thread shows) that dates from the second century A.D. This is a cool detour from the Longstitch and, with your choice of cover paper, design, and stitching materials, your Tacket bound book will be worth the trip. It's a great way to use up smaller papers and make nice gifts at the same time! If you have something special you want to use in or on your book, be sure to pack it!
Instructor: Lee Steiner
Level: all levels
Tuition: $60 plus $15 materials fee
Magic Tray Box
Learn a clever way of designing a three-compartment box with a unique lid that opens from two sides (that's the magic). Kits and some miscellaneous supplies will be provided for participants. Bring to workshop: self-healing cutting mat, Xacto or Olfa cutter with LOTS of new blades, bone folders (the teflon ones and ones w/squared off ends are helpful in boxmaking), metal ruler, pencil, paper towels, lots of waste paper for gluing on, lidded container for glue, water container, weights (if you have them to weight down papers).
Instructor: Cindy Haller
Level: all levels
Tuition: $105 plus $25 materials fee
Paste Grain Papers
Borrowing from a 16th Century surface paper treatment, modern paste paper lends itself to a variety of artists’ needs. Surface treatments on a wide range of papers will be the starting point or end design for bookbinders, lettering artists, collage artists, picture framers and graphic designers. Both traditional and modern recipes will be used to achieve a variety of looks, such as patterns, textures, monoprints, repeat designs, along with blending and painting techniques – a full day of creating!
Instructor: Cindy Haller
Level: all levels
Tuition: $105 plus $25 materials fee
Portfolio & Hard Cover Book
In this two session high energy, fast paced class, students will complete a portfolio and a flat back case style binding, covered in cloth and decorated paper. Beginning with basic skills of measuring, cutting, and gluing, students will make a folio-style portfolio. We will then progress to preparation of the textblock (folding, punching, sewing, attaching endsheets, spine treatment and endbands). Students repeat the steps learned in the portfolio by making a case and then advancing to “casing-in” to complete the book. Previous bookbinding experience is helpful.
Instructor: Myssie Light
Level: all levels
Tuition: $180 plus $ 25 material fee
Post Screw Album
In one class, learn some basics of bookbinding, and go home with an album completed in one day. This structure allows for ongoing addition of pages, so you can make the album before you know how much it will need to hold! This is a good introductory course for becoming familiar with bookbinding materials and skills, including measuring, cutting, scoring, gluing and covering on bookboard.
Instructor: Myssie Light
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $15 materials fee
Print Your Own Wedding or Baby Shower Invitations
Have you always wanted to letterpress your own project? Are you a true do it yourselfer? Join us for a class to execute your project. Plates and ink provided. Students must supply their own paper. During the first class we will discuss paper selection, best artwork for letterpress printing, elements of your design and how to prepare artwork for plates, decide on paper size and envelope. The instructor will order plates for the next class (included in materials fee). Set up press, mix ink, discuss registration and print invitations and envelopes over the next 2 classes.
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $135 plus $75 materials fee
Printing with Photopolymer Plates
Learn the basics of printing with photopolymer plates using the Vandercook proof press. We will mix ink, ink the press and print a series of 4 greeting cards. Using images and type from a collection provided, each student will lay out a Halloween, Christmas, birthday and valentine card. We'll print multiple copies and clean up. Photopolymer plates resources will be provided for you to order your own plates.
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $135 plus $15 materials fee
Sewn Boards Binding
Sewn boards binding is a variation of Coptic binding in which the "boards" are built up via layers of heavy folder weight paper. The sewing includes the boards by going through a folded edge of the paper before the "boards" are built up. The result is a very strong structure which can support a text block of almost any size, particularly when the boards are trimmed square to the textblock. These make lovely blank books of typical proportions or could make an artist book of very unusual proportions. Instructor: Amanda Focke
Instructor: Amanda Focke
Level: all levels
Tuition: $60 plus $25 materials fee
Silkscreen T-Shirts and Posters
Learn the basics of silkscreen to print your own t-shirts and posters! Charles Criner, the Museum’s Artist in Residence, guides students through the process of choosing a design, building the frame, and burning the screen using the photo-emulsion method, transparent film, or the touch and glue method. Proper inks and color applications will also be covered.
Instructor: Charles Criner
Level: all levels
Tuition: $120 plus $30 materials fee
Slipcases
In this class, students will make a slip case out of sturdy book board, with a lined interior, and with an applied cover of book cloth. Measuring for proper overlaps, application of adhesive, and application of bookcloth will be addressed. Students will learn the sequence of cuts and paste-downs necessary to create neat and well-tailored corners. Once these techniques are learned, they can be applied to the construction of complex clamshell boxes. Also, directions for making a simple but effective slipcase out of card stock will be demonstrated.
Instructor: Ed Kopinitz
Level: all levels
Tuition: $90 plus $20 materials fee
Small Books From Everyday Objects
Once you know some basic bookbinding techniques, you can make a book out of anything! In this one-shot workshop we’ll gather everyday objects and “repurpose” them into fun little books that will make great gifts, for yourself or others, and make you feel good about putting your clutter to work for you! In three hours we can transform a matchbox into an accordion book with a case, a CD into a sunburst-folded poetry book, two cardboard drink coasters into a chunky Coptic-bound volume, and playing cards into taped or stab-bound notebooks. Hey, we’re just getting started! I’m sure these fun projects will lead to more fun projects so feel free to bring any household or found objects and we can brainstorm together.
Instructor: Lee Steiner
Level: all levels
Tuition: $60
Valentine Pop-Up Cards
Learn paper engineering! Create Valentine themed pop-up cards, while learning basic techniques, terms, and a foundation for creative exploration. Each student will make three cards using mechanisms including pivot, generation, spring & more.
Instructor: Darla Hartmann
Level: all levels
Tuition: $45 plus $10 materials fee
Wood Type Posters
Always admired those vintage rock posters? Learn how to print one of your own. After a brief meeting Thursday evening, the class will break into teams and collaboratively set and print several posters using wood type from the Museum’s vast collection. Students will learn to print on the Vandercook proof press and the Washington style iron handpress.
Instructor: Suzanne Powney
Level: all levels
Tuition: $120 plus $15 materials fee
Hours:
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Tuesday - Saturday
713-522-4652
Free admission for self-guided tours
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