Bookbinding

at Drawing Room

Create your own blank book, page by page—a space to hold and inspire your future creative ideas.

Types of Bookbinding:

Signature Stitch

Signature stitch binding is a traditional bookbinding technique that uses folded groups of pages—called signatures—sewn together along the spine with thread. This method creates a durable, flexible book that lies flat when open, perfect for handmade journals and sketchbooks.

Accordion

Accordion binding is a bookbinding technique where a single long sheet of paper is folded back and forth in a zigzag pattern, creating pages that can expand and contract like an accordion. This flexible structure is ideal for artist books, photo displays, and creative storytelling.

Why Bookbinding at Drawing Room?

  • Learn to Make a Book—From Scratch

    In this hands-on workshop, you’ll assemble and bind your own custom journal or sketchbook—then decorate it with drawing tools, stamps, and stickers.

    Whether you're making a sketchbook, notebook, or keepsake, this class gives you the skills and space to create something truly yours…something you can carry with you and build on as you go about your everyday creative living. All materials are provided, and no experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity.

  • Professional instruction & supplies

    This workshop is led by artist and educator Ray Hwang, and thoughtfully developed from his own painting practice and passion for community-building.

    Ray believes creativity is an open door—for connection, reflection, and play—and brings that spirit into every session. Expect beginner-friendly guidance, live demos, and steady support throughout.

    Learn more about Ray here.

  • Emphasis on connection

    Bookbinding is more than just learning a technique—it’s about how books can bring us together. At Drawing Room, we believe creativity builds community, and sharing this experience around the table sparks conversation, connection, and collaboration. Whether you come alone or with friends, you’ll join a supportive circle where stories, ideas, and inspiration flow freely—one page at a time.

What to expect

    • Welcome, introductions, and a quick icebreaker

    • Overview of tools, materials, and demo books

    • Guided bookmaking: cutting, folding, and assembling signatures

    • Demonstration of the signature stitch binding technique

    • Hands-on stitching to bind your book

    • Time to decorate and personalize your cover

    • Bone folder

    • Cutting mat

    • Scissors, ruler, glue

    • Signature Stitch:

      • Various paper types

      • Waxed linen thread of various colors

      • Bookbinding needles

    • Accordion:

      • Book clips

      • hard book covers

      • bookcloth

      • bookbinding glue

      • bookbinding glue brushes

  • Enjoy our loose-leaf tea station! Additional beverages and snacks are available for purchase.

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This workshop is available as a drop-in—but if you’re craving creative growth within a supportive community, consider joining our Cohort Program.

We believe well-designed experiences can create a certain magic—one that fosters connection and joy. With repeated touchpoints, group projects, and thoughtful instruction, the Cohort offers a steady rhythm to deepen your skills and relationships, all within an environment designed to spark inspiration.