cbl-Newsletter 5/2026

You have probably heard the expression "Artist in Residence". It is most commonly associated with writers, musicians, and composers. Such programmes are based, among other things, on the idea of giving creative professionals the opportunity to pursue their work for a limited period in a different environment.

The centro del bel libro also offers such a programme, which we call "Bookbinder in Residence". It provides experienced bookbinders, artists, and designers with the opportunity to work independently on their own projects in a quiet, professional setting. The historic workshop of the centro del bel libro serves as an inspiring workplace, fully equipped with high-quality tools and facilities. And it is not only the workshop that provides inspiration. Ascona, a picturesque town on the beautiful shores of Lake Maggiore, offers the perfect complement to a creative stay.

Have we sparked your interest? Would you like to learn more about this programme?
Then simply click on the following link, where you will find further information:
https://www.cbl-ascona.ch/en/home

If you have any questions or would like to make a booking, please send us an email with the subject "Bookbinder in Residence" to: info@cbl-ascona.ch

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Here are a few impressions from the course "Book clasps – Function and Finishing," led by Kevin Cilurzo, which took place in Zurich this past May.

Since our core mission is to offer high-quality courses taught by carefully selected experts, we would also like to draw your attention to some of the other courses currently included in our programme.

This year, Renate Mesmer is once again offering courses in the field of book restoration. The two-part course "Restoration of parchment volumes " (Courses No. 20 & 21) are already fully booked. However, there are still places available in course No. 22 in Ascona and Course No. 23 in Ittingen.

If you are interested, don't hesitate—register today!

No. 17

Course location Ascona

Students will be introduced to Northern European limp vellum binding styles. The class will begins with a short lecture showing various styles of bindings included in the collection of the Carolina Rediviva Library at the Uppsala University in Sweden. We will focus on materials and details, such as a rigid spine plate, weaving of the sewing thread, markers, and closures. Students will start by constructing a text block, shaping and preparing the supportive spine plate from a variety of materials, cutting the vellum cover to size and finally attaching the cover and adding closures. During the class we will have time for deeper study and discussions on some of the typical features found on books bound with this technique. We will then create two other bindings using these methods more freely … coloring and patterning the vellum, using metal and other nontraditional materials for spine supports of various shapes and sizes and working with unusual sewing patterns.

Instructor:

Adam Larsson

Date:

From Monday, 7th September until Friday, 11th September 2026

Duration:

5 days, Friday until 12:00

Course location:

centro del bel libro ascona, Via Collegio 17, CH-6612 Ascona

Language:

English, Swedish if required

Costs:

CHF 1'150.-

Material costs:

Special material depending on use

Participants:

Advanced, bookbinding skills required

Registration:

No. 19

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:
The Moonspine variant is a book with fixed covers and a round, stiff spine, in which the content is stapled onto carbon rods, wooden skewers, bicycle spokes, piano strings or similar elements. This technique enables a permanently resilient, adhesive-free binding, even for larger and more extensive objects.
The Self Supporting Structure is a flexible book in which long woven ribbons are not only used for binding, but are also woven into flexible covers at the protrusions.

Instructor:

Jan Peter Zimmerlich

Date:

From Monday, 21st September until Friday, 25th September 2026

Duration:

5 days, Friday until 12:00

Course location:

centro del bel libro ascona, Via Collegio 17, CH-6612 Ascona

Language:

German, explanations in English or French

Costs:

CHF 1'150.-

Material costs:

Special material depending on use

Participants:

Bookbinding experience is an advantage

Registration:

No. 22

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.
Whether parchment, leather, or paper volumes—the diversity of projects is deliberately allowed and encouraged. Despite different areas of focus, the joint work gives rise to a lively professional exchange: transitions, thematic intersections, and comparable challenges are taken up by the instructor, summarized, and reflected upon with all participants. This creates a shared learning process that extends beyond one's own object.
Both traditional materials and techniques—such as historical adhesives, binding methods, or cover materials—are used, as well as selected alternative materials, whose application is discussed, tested, and evaluated under guidance. The conscious examination of different materials promotes a reflective approach to restoration decisions.
Studio time takes place in a collegial, open, and supportive working atmosphere. The course thrives on collaboration: learning from each other, developing solutions together, comparing techniques—always in dialogue and with appreciation for different approaches.

Important: As the course only lasts one week, it is generally not possible to complete extensive restorations in their entirety. The aim is rather to focus on individual work steps, develop a suitable concept, or solve specific problems with the object – accompanied by individual feedback and expert advice.

Prerequisites for participation are basic knowledge of book restoration and a certain degree of independence in practical work. The course is aimed at anyone who has already worked in restoration – whether in a professional context or as part of previous training – and who would like to further develop their projects in exchange with an expert and like-minded people.

Instructor:

Renate Mesmer

Date:

From Monday, 12th October until Friday, 16th October 2026

Duration:

5 days, Friday until 17:00

Course location:

centro del bel libro ascona, Via Collegio 17, CH-6612 Ascona

Language:

German and English

Costs:

CHF 1'199.00

Material costs:

Special material depending on use

Participants:

Advanced, basic knowledge in book restoration required

Registration:

No. 23

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.
Participants will explore topics such as humidification, washing, drying, flattening, and lining. The course also covers innovative techniques, materials, and processes, which participants will apply practically.
Please note that prior knowledge of paper restoration is required for this course.

Instructor:

Renate Mesmer

Date:

From Monday, 19th October until Friday, 23rd October 2026

Duration:

5 days, Friday until 17:00

Course location:

Atelier Michael Rothe GmbH, Worblentalstrasse 28, CH-3063 Ittigen

Language:

German and English

Costs:

CHF 1'199.-

Material costs:

Special material depending on use

Participants:

Advanced, previous experience in book restoration required

Registration:

Administration:
centro del bel libro ascona
Viale St. Franscini 30
CH-6500 Bellinzona – Switzerland

School:
centro del bel libro ascona
Via Collegio 17
CH-6612 Ascona – Switzerland

www.cbl-ascona.ch
Telefon +41 (0) 91 825 11 62
info@cbl-ascona.ch

Bookbinder in Residence - Independent work in the cbl ascona workshop

Limp - Link - Long. Exploring Techniques Hidden In Libraries Across Europe

Course location Ascona

Woven structure variations

Course location Ascona

Open studio - Individual book restoration projects

Course location Ascona

Paper Conservation: Traditions, Innovations and Methods

Course location Ittigen