St. Johns County Council on Aging

Discover the centuries-old craft of bookbinding in this hands-on course designed for beginners and creative enthusiasts alike. Students will learn the fundamental techniques of constructing handmade books — from folding and sewing signatures (bookbinding process of stitching multiple folded groups of paper (signatures) together using binder thread to create the internal text block of a book) to attaching covers and finishing edges. The course is made up of individual sessions, each exploring a different and creative aspect of designing and personalizing your book. No prior experience needed — just a love of paper, texture, paints and making things by hand.

Altered Playing Cards- Playing cards are the perfect addition to making your book unique. Using paints, stencils, stamps and even fabric scraps, you can design each card to look like it is old, vintage, mid-century, shabby chic, a sample specimen card or any other different style you can create. Place them in special hidden places in your book.

Supplies specific to this class:

• Playing cards
• Paints- watercolor, inks, acrylic
• Markers – permanent and watercolor
• Scissors
• Fabric scraps
• Tissue paper, napkins
• Glue stick, white Elmer’s glue
• Stencils
• Decorative suggestions- stickers, dried flowers, bling, etc.

General Supplies needed:

• Journals- blank sketch/watercolor books, or you can hand make a book or alter a book.
• Pens, markers, pencils, rulers, brushes Paints (acrylics, watercolors, inks, metallics)
• Colored pencils
• Collage materials: (magazine clippings, newspapers, paper scraps)
• Glue or adhesives 
• Stamps and stencils
• Washi or decorative tapes
• Gesso: white or clear
• Sponges
• Palette knives

Optional supplies

• Fabric,
• Textured papers, 
• Brayer
• Gel press
• Ink sprays 
• Found objects or memorabilia 

Class session will be held on Monday, July 20 from 1:30 to 3:30 at River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084)

For ages 18 and up.