a selection of handbound books

SMCE4002-2 W26 Hardcover Books

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Create hand-bound works of art

  • Duration: 4 Weeks
  • Day of the Week: Thursday
  • Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Dates: Thursday January 22, 2026 to Thursday, February 12, 2026
  • Delivery: In-person, Kelly Library Print Studio, 113 St. Joseph St., Toronto
  • Cost: $290 (includes HST & materials) **15% discount available to alumni of the University of St. Michael’s College and seniors 65+

Course Overview

In this course, we will explore two variations of hard-covered books with multiple sections, the Sewn Board Binding and Case Bound styles:

Sewn Board Binding style allows for flat opening of the book and laminated thin boards.

Case Bound books have the traditional look of a shelf-ready hardcover tome. The two structures are sewn and glued, covered in cloth and paper, and can be used as journals, sketchbooks, or artist’s books.

This course is suitable for learners of all levels, no previous bookbinding experience is required.

Method of Instruction

This course combines guided demonstrations with hands-on practice to teach two hardcover book structures. Learners will explore the flat-opening Sewn Board Binding and the traditional Case Bound Book. Each project involves sewing, gluing, and covering with cloth or paper, with step-by-step instruction ensuring mastery of each technique. Small-group guidance and individual feedback will support learners in refining skills and troubleshooting challenges, resulting in three completed books suitable for use as journals, sketchbooks, or artist’s books.

Learning Outcomes

In this course, you will:

  • Develop skills in creating book structures.
  • Learn techniques of sewing, gluing, and covering books with cloth and paper.
  • Explore the practical applications of these book forms for personal projects, such as journals, sketchbooks, or artist books, and their potential for customization.

About the Instructor

Andrew Huot in his print studio.

Andrew Huot is a book artist and bookbinder in Toronto, ON, Canada, where he operates Big River Bindery. He taught bookbinding, conservation, and preservation at the School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois for 12 years. In addition to conservation and bookbinding, he teaches bookbinding and book arts in his Scarborough studio, for the Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild, and at arts centres around Toronto. He holds a Master’s in Book Arts from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, and his artists’ books use photographs, linoleum cuts, and text to share the humorous side of everyday life. His artists’ books are in collections including the Art Institute of Chicago, Yale University, Emory University, and Ontario College of Art & Design. See more of his work at bigriverbindery.com and andrewhuot.com

Questions?

Please contact ce.stmikes@utoronto.ca

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SMCE4002-2 W26 – Hardcover Books

SMCE4002-2 W26 Registration

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  • Course Discounts: St. Michael’s College alumni and seniors (65+) are each eligible for a 15% discount on course fees for select courses. Discounts may not be combined (e.g., alumni who are also seniors will receive a maximum of 15% off). Alumni and seniors discounts may not be applied where fees are already discounted. Graduates of other colleges or faculties at the University of Toronto are not eligible. Proof of St. Michael’s College graduation or proof of age may be required.
  • $ 0.00 CAD

  • ***IMPORTANT NOTE*** When submitting your form please do not resubmit if you receive an error message. We will contact you if there is an issue with your submission. Thank you.

  • Cancellation and Withdrawal Policy Form

    Student withdrawal, course cancellation and transfer guidelines associated with all Continuing Education courses and programs can be found here.
a selection of handbound books

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