Coptic Bookbinding

Spend a full day learning the art of Coptic bookbinding, a historic structure known for its beautiful exposed spine and ability to open completely flat. These books make great journals, sketchbooks, and gifts.

In the morning, we’ll focus on single-needle Coptic sewing, preparing folded sections, and stitching them into a sturdy, functional book. In the afternoon, we’ll build on those skills by learning double-needle (four-needle) Coptic sewing.

By the end of the day, you’ll know the fundamentals of Coptic binding and leave with two completed books—plus the knowledge and materials to make more at home.

About the Instructor: Rachel Payne

Instructor will provide the following: 

paper, needles, awls, punching blocks, thread, and class handouts

Students are asked to bring:

• pencil

• scissors

• ruler (metal ruler with metric and inches if possible)

• Since your class runs over the lunch hour, we recommend you bring lunch or click HERE to learn about local eating opportunities.

Skill Level 

All levels welcome; no experience required. Bookbinding requires hand dexterity, and the class may be more challenging for those with hand or joint issues, but that you will be supported through the stages.

Age Requirement 

Students ages 16 and older are welcome to attend this class. Students ages 16 and 17 may attend without a parent/guardian in attendance as long as MMFS is provided with written parental permission by email to info@marinemillsfolkschool.org.

Location Details 

Marine Mills Folk School

550 Pine St.

Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

Cost Details

Tuition: $120

Materials Fee: $25

Total Cost: $145

NOTE: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible! If interested, you can find our cancellation policy HERE.