There are no available registration dates at this time.

NOTE: This class will be held in a live, online format using the Zoom platform.
Class meets Saturday & Sunday, 10am-1pm ET  

The Secret Belgian binding is a popular structure, used primarily for artist books. This style of binding is simple and easy to construct; it opens flat and is perfect for thinner text blocks. Students will learn 2 different finishing techniques for the Secret Belgian. 

KITS PROVIDED BY Erin include the following items: 

  • Text blocks: 10 signatures
  • Millboard
  • Bookcloth
  • Infill
  • Punching Jigs
  • Lining Paper

Tools that the student will need:

– 12”/300mm ruler
– Glue brush
– Cutting mat and Olfa knife (X-acto blade will also work)
– Scissors
– Pin Vise (size B) or Awl
– #18 blunt sewing needles
– Bone folder
– Pencil
– PVA
– Waste paper
– Chisels (various sizes)
– Hammer

Optional tools:

– Punching Cradle
– 4” Flat Leg Dividers
– Small 45/45/90 triangle
– Sanding Block

Materials needed:

– 18/3 dyed thread
– Binder’s clip
– Decorative Paper (2-3 sheets)

Instructor: Erin Fletcher

Erin Fletcher is a fine binder and book artist who graduated from the North Bennett Street School. She opened Herringbone Bindery in Boston in 2012 and offers a variety of hand bookbinding and box-making services to a range of clients and institutions. She teaches in the Continuing Education department at North Bennet and as a co-teacher for the Middle School Book Arts Program. Her work has been exhibited domestically and internationally, and is held in both private and institution collections.

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