VENUE: NSW Bookbinders Guild, Callan Park, Lilyfield, SYDNEY
TUTOR: Michelle Vandermeer
DATE: Sunday 8th February 2026
TIME: 10.00am – 4.00pm
COST: from $225 (NSWBG members), $250 (non Guild members)
In this relaxed 6-hour workshop held at the NSW Bookbinders Guild in Sydney, learn how to make a classic soft-cover leatherbound journal, with your choice of papers inside, hand-sewn with coloured thread, and using a traditional technique known as cross-structure binding.
In this workshop all materials are provided, and you can choose from a variety of supple coloured/textured leathers, an assortment of different papers for the book’s pages, and a colourful range of waxed-linen bookbinding thread, all coming together to make a unique and personalised journal.
Cross-structure binding has been around since medieval times, and is distinguished by separate front and back covers, with the sections of pages sewn onto the leather 'fingers' of the back cover, either leaving the colourful stitching exposed or concealing it behind a spine panel of leather (both styles are taught in this class - your choice of which you'd prefer to make). Additionally, the two leather covers can be matching in colour, or they can be contrasting colours to make a feature of the ‘fingers’.
Ideal for complete beginners, as well as those who would like to expand their range of bookbinding techniques. You'll be able to examine a wide range of finished examples of cross-structure leatherbound books (in different sizes, formats, and materials) and draw inspiration from the variations and possibilities.
All tools and materials are provided as part of the workshop, but you are welcome to bring your own items from home (i.e. A3 cutting mat, a metal ruler, craft knife, pencil, awl, bonefolder), and any sheets of fancy/coloured/found papers if you want to use these in your book.
Comprehensive instructions and templates are also included, to enable you to continue making more leather cross-structure books at home.
Email workshops@shelbyville.com.au or txt/phone 0412 550 981 to make a booking
Online bookings available:
https://www.nswbookbinders.org/crossstructureworkshop
Create a leatherbound book in your choice of colours and papers
Detail of a cross-structure bound book with contrasting leather front and back covers