THIS CLASS IS FULL.
Whip Stitch Accordions
January 20, 27, February 3, 2024 | Saturdays | 3 weeks | $375
7 pre-recorded video tutorials with PDF instructions posted each Saturday. Access to a private chat area for questions and comments.
Create two unique accordion books that showcase your artwork in a remarkable fashion. One of the books will have four panels with raised borders displaying the artwork. The other accordion will empower you to stretch the creative muscles to design a free-flowing shape that extends the artwork from panel to panel. Bonnie will guide you through all the steps.
The whip stitching that rims each panel lashes the stiff boards together with an ingenious hyper-flexible hinge mechanism. Textured paper covers the panels’ backsides. Each book is approximately five by seven inches when closed.
In addition to the main lessons and detailed instruction, tips and tricks are provided on covering all kinds of non-90-degree corners and curves. And, as a bonus, there is information on making enclosures for your books.
A kit that accompanies this workshop will be mailed before the first January lesson.
The workshop is open to all US citizens. Class size is limited.
In this course you will:
- learn the whip stitch sewing method so that you can use this knowledge to bind together any stiff board accordion panels
- gain confidence to create your free-form accordions and generate the hole pattern guides
- learn how to cover boards with unusual shapes to enable you to invigorate the design of your books
- improve your technique by incorporating Bonnie’s tricks for successful bookbinding
The fee includes:
- 7 videos of instruction concentrated into easy-to-follow steps
- a supply kit of pre-cut materials to create two books
- 4 detailed handouts, PDF format
- hole pattern guide and 2 spacing guides (included in the supply kit)
- bonus lesson: simple enclosures
- private discussion area
The handout information and the videos are the equivalents of a six-day in-person workshop.
The demonstrations are filmed with the camera overhead so you can get an excellent view of the action.
Testimonials from Students of Bonnie's Online Classes:
I was skeptical about taking a class online but was so eager to participate in another class with you that I flung skepticism to the wind . . . thank goodness! It was so well organized, great communication, excellent videos, plus I've really enjoyed the interaction with everybody else who took the class. Thank you! Kristy Spann
The videos were delivered in sizable portions and clearly presented – a real talent. I appreciate that I could rewatch them as many times as I needed. I also found how the other students had solved problems to be inspiring. Dr. Cindy Bixler Borgmann
Format of the online course:
Pre-recorded video tutorials and PDF handouts will be posted on Saturday mornings. Once they are released, you can work at your convenience to complete the task before moving on to the next lesson on the following Saturday. During the week, Bonnie will be checking messages in the discussion area to address any questions or comments. You will have access to the videos for ninety days. The handouts are downloadable and are yours for a lifetime.
Schedule:
Week 1: Introduction
Whip Stitch Accordion with Framed Rectangular Panels
Week 2: Whip Stitch Accordion with Free-Formed Panels, part one
Cutting and Covering Boards with Unusual Shapes
Week 3: Whip Stitch Accordion with Free-Formed Panels, part two
Bonus Video: Simple Enclosures
Tool and Materials:
The tools needed for this course are minimal. They include a pencil, scissors, bone folder, needle, awl, bow compass, ruler, triangle, cutting knives, cutting mat, glue brushes, and a book weight. Please Note: a drill with a 1/16-inch drill bit is required to drill the sewing holes. This can be a Dremel, hand drill, or electric drill. Clamps to hold the work steady are also necessary.
The students will supply the PVA, waste and blotter paper and their choice of media for creating the artwork.
A detailed list regarding the tools sizes and vendors will be shared when you register for the course.
Have Questions? Please contact Bonnie.
The kits will be mailed in early January. Sign up now to get yours in time.
Registrations may not be shared and are non-transferable.
This class is only open to US students.
Your Instructor
Bonnie Stahlecker
I started my artistic life with the book as the vehicle to carry my creative expression. I now create both artist books and sculptures.
One of the most vital talents I have as an instructor is my organizational skills and the ability to share information in easy, understandable steps. I have a passion for art and a considerable amount of knowledge and experience to share. I have honed my skills and knowledge to serve my workshop participants better. For example, in 2000, I took private bookbinding lessons and researched historical book models. Since then, I have adapted the techniques to make my artwork and offer my innovations to others. I look forward to sharing my expertise and wisdom with you in my online courses.