Discover the meditative and rewarding craft of bookbinding in this hands-on workshop led by local artist Kat Parker.

Perfect for beginners and creatives alike, this session will guide you through the process of constructing your own unique hand-bound book using the timeless Coptic stitch technique – a binding style favoured for its durability and ability to lie flat, making it ideal for journaling, writing, or sketching.

Inspired by artists like Brett Whiteley, whose sketchbooks offer a raw and intimate insight into his creative process, this workshop invites you to create a vessel for your own ideas, drawings, and reflections.

Over three hours, you’ll learn how to:

Design and create sturdy, fabric-covered covers
Fold and prepare paper into signatures (page groupings)
Pierce and bind your book using the elegant Coptic stitch
Finish with a handcrafted book that lies flat – perfect for capturing spontaneous thoughts or artworks on the go

With step-by-step guidance and plenty of one-on-one support, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the art of bookbinding – and your very own hand-crafted book to begin your next creative chapter.

This workshop is ideal for people aged 16 years and older.

Program details

Date + time: Saturday 2 August, 10.30am-1.30pm

Location: SAM Workshop, Level 2, Shepparton Art Museum, 530 Wyndham Street, Shepparton

Price: $33 inc. GST – all materials included (Friends of SAM members receive 10% discount on programs – apply code FRIENDSOFSAM-SAMMAKES at checkout)

Contact the host of SAM Makes: DIY Sketchbook with Kat Parker