Reading books and having them bound represent two enormously different stages of development. … Having books bound signifies respect for the book; it indicates that people not only love to read, but they view it as an important occupation.
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Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Demons
The Bindery
BINDERY OPENING HOURS
1st Tuesday of each month 10am - 4pm
2nd Saturday of each month: 9:30am - 1:30pm
All Wednesdays: 10 am – 5pm
BEGINNERS’ CLASSES
The Guild runs regular Beginner Workshops through to more Advanced Classes. The aim of these weekend courses is to familiarise students with the necessary knowledge and skills to start them on a journey to make their own books. The workshops are run at the Guild’s professionally equipped bindery in Writing NSW, in Callan Park, Rozelle.
The facilities
Use of the bindery facilities on open access days is covered by your membership subscription.
There is always a monitor in attendance on open access days. If you have any questions about anything bindery related consult the monitor.
Wearing closed toe shoes when working in the bindery is essential and a requirement of our insurance policy.
We also recommend you wear washable clothing. When using glue and paste, an apron is recommended.
On arrival, please sign the attendance register for insurance purposes. When leaving, note your time of departure.
Working in the bindery
The bindery is fully equipped with the small tools needed for most bookbinding projects. You may use the bindery tools when working in the bindery, although it is preferable for you to bring your own glue brushes.
You may also use the large equipment, however you need to have the use of certain items demonstrated before you go ahead. (See below.) If you need a refresher in the use of equipment please ask the monitor.
Many supplies are available for use in the bindery on open access days.
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PVA and paste are available. Paste can be made fresh from the supply of starch.
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Items such as rulers, awls, and bonefolders are also available. Please ensure you leave items in a clean condition before you leave.
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Offcut materials such as cloth and card can be used by members on their projects. Other supplies include thread, various offcuts of card and bookcloth.
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Set up your workplace with a cutting mat. Always use waste paper when glueing out. If glue spills, wipe the bench or cutting mat immediately.
Stand your brush in water up to the ferrule to prevent the bristles from sticking together and ruining the brush. Wrap your brushes in plastic wrap and clean them thoroughly at home with warm water and soap. Never put PVA down the sink.
Use of large equipment
If you wish to use the board cutter, guillotines or blocking presses please ask the monitor for guidance as these items can be quite dangerous. You will also get better results after training.
Purchasing supplies
To purchase materials such as full sheets of boxboard, lined, plain and decorated paper, bookcloth, sewing tapes and thread, please consult the monitor. Payment can be made by cash or with EFT after the cost of your purchase has been calculated. Invoices are written for all purchases over $5.
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Borrowing tools and books
Occasionally members may wish to borrow a tool. Please ask the monitor for the Tool Register and enter the relevant details.
Similarly, we have a Library Register for borrowers. While some books are for reference and use in the bindery only, many other books can be borrowed for up to one month.
Refreshments
Tea and coffee are available. Boiling water and filtered tap water are available in the nearby kitchen. Please leave cups and utensils clean on the drainer in the bindery.
Food should be eaten outside on the verandas. Food scraps must be put in the bin in the kitchen, never in the bindery bins. For a long day, it’s a good idea to bring your lunch. Food shops are a brisk walk away across the park on Balmain Road.
About the NSW Guild
The NSW Guild of Craft Bookbinders Inc. consists of people of various occupations and ages who have a common interest in books, book crafts and bookbinding. The Guild’s membership includes professional bookbinders.
The role of the Guild is to provide its members with opportunities for learning skills at all levels and a venue to foster interest in, and knowledge of, this ancient and modern craft.
The creative and practical art of bookbinding offers hours of challenging enjoyment to those who value text and image set between the covers of a book.
The NSW Guild of Craft Bookbinders offers members a professionally equipped bindery where they may practise their craft and attend workshops under the guidance of experienced tutors, increasing their knowledge and expertise in both traditional and modern bookbinding techniques.