A Four-Day Immersive Course in Leather Journal Making
This is a four-day immersive course in traditional bookmaking, focused on the creation of a hand-bound leather journal designed to support reflection, creativity, and long-term personal use. Participants will learn foundational techniques in leatherwork, paper preparation, and hand-sewn binding while exploring the deeper role of books as tools for thinking, remembering, and meaning-making.
Throughout history, handmade books have functioned as extensions of the human mind—places where ideas are tested, emotions are processed, images are born, and understanding takes form over time. Drawing, writing, and collecting thoughts within a self-made book encourages presence, continuity, and self-awareness. Contemporary research in expressive arts and narrative psychology affirms what artists and thinkers have long known: sustained journaling and visual reflection can support mental health, cognitive clarity, and emotional resilience. This course honors both the craft and the contemplative potential of bookmaking.
Participants will design and construct a durable, archival-quality leather journal intended to last a lifetime—an object that becomes a companion for creative inquiry, daily reflection, and personal ritual.
Journal Size: approximately 5” × 7” × 2”
Interior: approximately 260 - 300 pages of mixed archival drawing and writing papers
Location: TBA
Cost: $350 - Includes all materials
You can pay with Venmo: @Adhi-TwoOwls
Or… Check-out through the AdhiZen Studio Shop
Course Structure
Day One — Concept, Design, and Leather Cover Construction
The course begins with an introduction to the history and function of handmade books across artistic, scientific, and personal traditions. Participants will then design and construct their journal covers using top-grain leather. Instruction will cover measuring, cutting, shaping, and basic leatherworking techniques, as well as thoughtful design considerations related to function, durability, and personal symbolism.
Day Two — Paper Selection, Preparation, and Folding
Participants will work with a curated selection of archival papers suitable for drawing, writing, and mixed media. Instruction will include cutting, tearing, sizing, sequencing, and folding pages into signatures. Emphasis will be placed on how paper choice and structure influence the way a book is used—how it invites certain kinds of marks, thoughts, and rhythms of engagement.
Day Three — Sewing and Binding
On the third day, participants will learn traditional hand-sewn binding techniques to assemble their books. Attention will be given to precision, tension, and structural integrity, ensuring the journal opens well and withstands years of use. This day emphasizes the meditative nature of repetitive handwork and the quiet focus that often emerges through stitching and assembly.
Day Four — Finishing, Detailing, and Personalization
The final day is devoted to refining and completing the journal. Participants will add finishing details, adjust fit, and personalize their covers through simple tooling, closures, or decorative elements. Time will also be given to discuss ways of working within the book—approaches to journaling, drawing, visual thinking, and reflective practice that support ongoing creative and emotional well-being.
Who This Course Is For
This course is well suited for artists, writers, educators, therapists, and anyone drawn to slow, intentional making. No prior bookbinding or leatherworking experience is required—only curiosity, patience, and a willingness to engage thoughtfully with both material and process.