Course location Zurich

Course location Ittigen

This course provides a comprehensive overview of both traditional and innovative paper conservation techniques. Starting with basic methods such as simple tear repairs and filling losses, it progresses to more advanced treatments, including addressing damage from mold, brittle paper, and the mechanical stabilization of paper affected by ink corrosion.

Course location Ascona

This course offers open, supervised studio time for intensive work on individual book restoration projects. Under the expert guidance of the instructor, participants can work on their own objects and delve deeper into specific restoration issues.

Course location Ascona

This two-part course focuses on the professional restoration of historical parchment volumes and is aimed at restorers with prior knowledge in the field of book restoration.

Course location Ascona

This two-part course focuses on the professional restoration of historical parchment volumes and is aimed at restorers with prior knowledge of book restoration.
The first week lays a solid foundation for working with parchment. The focus is on its structure, properties, typical ageing processes and the limits of its resilience. Theoretical content will be taught and initial practical exercises will be carried out to allow participants to try out the material for themselves.

Course location Ascona

This course focuses on innovative, adhesive-free bookbinding techniques with woven structures. The focus is on two variants that explore the range of stability and flexibility offered by this technique. To begin with, there will be an introduction to using the cutting plotter (Silhouette Cameo 4), which is used for the precise and efficient production of the binding folds.
Two book models are then produced:

Course location Ascona

The Prägnant embossing press is a versatile tool that is used in many workshops. This course focuses on the basics of title setting – from practical applications to typographical issues. In addition, the press opens up numerous creative possibilities, which we will explore together: various embossing tools, foils and colours are used, as well as different materials. This results in a wide range of design ideas that go far beyond classic title embossing.

Participants: Bookbinding experience is an advantage

Course location Ascona

Course location Ascona

This course teaches the basics of leather sharpening with the traditional “Ascona knife.” It demonstrates a key technique that can be performed with two different hand positions—ideal for beginners as well as those who want to improve their skills. If you don't have your own Ascona knife, you can purchase one during the course.

Course location Zurich

In hand bookbinding, the primary way to finish, or decorate, a covered binding is to build up patterns and designs with individual decorative stamps, called finishing tools. Students in this workshop will learn the skills needed to fashion their own custom finishing tools.