In this hands-on workshop, explore the art of creating vibrant paste papers and transform them into beautiful, functional pieces. Participants will begin the day by experimenting with a range of surface design techniques, using stamps, found objects, and even natural botanicals—gathered from the Historic Yellow Springs gardens or brought from home—to create unique, layered patterns.

As the papers dry, students will shift focus to simple bookbinding structures, creating reusable templates and learning how to construct journals, portfolios, or folded book forms. Additional ideas for using decorated paper—such as handmade cards, collages, and embellishments—will also be explored.

This workshop is perfect for artists, crafters, and paper-lovers looking to combine surface design with book arts. All levels welcome.

A Collaborative Workshop Series with Historic Yellow Springs & Historic Sugartown

Design and craft a one-of-a-kind sketchbook in this immersive, four-part workshop series that blends creative printmaking and traditional bookbinding techniques. Offered in partnership by Historic Yellow Springs and Historic Sugartown, this hands-on experience invites you to explore two historic sites while creating a functional and personal work of art.

Session 1: Traditional Paper Marbling 

Historic Sugartown | October 25, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Begin your journey in Historic Sugartown’s 19th-century bindery, where you’ll learn traditional paper marbling techniques that date back centuries. Create a collection of one-of-a-kind hand-marbled papers to use in your final sketchbook. If you'd like to incorporate your own specialty papers, bring a few sheets—we’ll guide you through prepping them for binding during the final portion of this session.

Sessions 2 & 3: Creative Printmaking for Your Sketchbook 

Historic Yellow Springs | November 1 & 8, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

In these two sessions, artist Laura Stockdale will guide participants through printmaking techniques to personalize the pages of their sketchbook. You'll create a decorative frontispiece—similar to those found in historic books—and explore options for adding sections that showcase original printwork. These pages can include different types of paper, layouts, and textures, offering a dynamic and deeply personal touch to your final book.

Session 4: Bookbinding with Leather or Cloth

Historic Sugartown | November 15, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Return to Sugartown to complete your sketchbook in the working bindery. Using hand tools and traditional techniques, you’ll sew and bind your printed and marbled pages into a hardcover book, choosing from leather or hand-dyed book cloth in a variety of colors. The final sketchbook can be up to 9x12 inches in size and will be a durable, heirloom-quality piece.