Coptic Stitch Bookbinding- free class
Mon, Apr 20
|Mary Church Terrell Main Library
In person class and must register with Oberlin College Libraries. All materials included and in person lesson.


Time & Location
Apr 20, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Mary Church Terrell Main Library, 148 W College St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA
About the event
https://oberlin.libcal.com/event/16262151
Learn one of the earliest sewn codex structures in this workshop taught by Kent-based artist Jenniffer Omaitz. Coptic stitch bindings are noted amongst the first codices in history. Much is debated about the early origin, but this ancient binding has evolved from the 2nd to 4th century. The coptic stitch technique, although difficult to learn at first, becomes simple and durable as an exposed sewing across the backbone or spine. The finished product allows the book to lay flat for ease of use. In this class, we will learn a 6-needle approach to binding that is both fast and strong, providing a lasting technique for bookbinding.


