i find great satisfaction in repetitive task work: tear, fold, stack, stitch, repeat.
when we have beautiful things made by hand, we are more likely to use them in a meaningful way. making my own books means that i end up with exactly the kind of journal i like to use. i can modify the size of the pages and thickness of the spine to meet my needs. i know i will end up with a book that lies flat when it is open because of the coptic binding. i love how the journals look sitting in my studio, reminding me to take note. handbound books are beautiful, but not too precious to be used. when one is filled with sketches and ideas and lists, i can simply make another. in preparation for teaching a bookbinding class, i made a collection of 12 indigo patchwork extra-large journals embellished with amulet-inspired stitchings.

are you interested in learning this useful and adaptable craft?
join me for a 2-day virtual bookbinding workshop with tatter blue library on march 13 & 20 (scroll down for more info).


this is the book that i use every day. it holds my ideas, lists, sketches,taped in images, and bits of threads and fabrics. each unique book is covered with hand stitched patchwork and embellished with a unique amulet design. the 9.5 x 12.5" books have 116 pages and are made from hemp linen that is dyed with indigo in my dye studio.
find the full collection here.

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In this intimate class, students will learn the art of coptic bookbinding with Alison Kaplan of Kata Golda Handmade. The coptic bookbinding technique creates a flexible book with an exposed spine, the pages open flat making it the perfect journal for writing and sketching. Building on decades of bookbinding experience, Alison makes this craft feel approachable and adaptable. She will showcase an assortment of finished handbound journals in many sizes so everyone can see the endless possibilities. Participants will make a book covered in plant-dyed organic cotton/hemp fabric that is 3.25” wide and 4.75” tall and is about .5” thick. The class days are one week apart so participants can work on embellishing their covers and practice stitching additional sections. Each participant will receive a DIY Bookbinding Kit and will need to collect a few items from home.

REGISTER HERE!



Session 1:  We will begin with an overview of coptic bookbinding and learn about the tools in the bookbinding kit. We will practice ripping paper and sewing/connecting pamphlets. We will also touch on embellishing covers.

Session 2:  After a week of sewing practice, Alison will answer any questions that came up during the week. We will then glue the cover and back and finish our books. We will discuss adaptations to make books of different sizes and shapes – Alison has many options to share. If time allows, participants will be introduced to two other simple techniques: a pamphlet-style notebook, an accordion book that is perfect for displaying photos or using for watercolor painting.


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i have two bookmaking DIY kits available in my shop.
once you learn the skill, it is endlessly adaptable. the DIY bookbinding kit (refills available) offers step-by-step instructions for the coptic bookbinding technique. the DIY accordion fold book kit makes a book that is perfect for photos, sketches, and watercolors.


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the daily practice journal is back in stock!
this is my thickest journal. each book contains 366 pages, measures 3.25 x 6.25”, and comes tucked inside a 6 x 8.75” matching plant-dyed hemp linen bag. i use this book as a multi-year journal, returning to the same page year after year.


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learn how to make a pamphlet style pocket notebook that tucks inside a patchwork gift bag in my collection of over 50 free sewing tutorials. happy stitching!


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PS: myra loved helping me to make the patchwork covers for the extra-large journals.