📖 Japanese Papermaking & Bookbinding Intensive with Anne Covell

A three-day hands-on retreat exploring handmade paper, structure, and the poetry of the book form

Join artist and bookmaker Anne Covell for a deep dive into the traditional craft of Japanese papermaking and bookbinding. Through patient, tactile process, you’ll learn how natural fibers, water, and motion combine to create luminous sheets of handmade washi — and how those sheets can be transformed into refined, expressive book forms.

Over three focused days, you’ll experience every step of the process: preparing kozo fiber, forming and drying sheets, and constructing simple and complex bindings using traditional Japanese tools and techniques. Along the way, Anne shares her insights on form, sequence, and the subtle interplay between paper, structure, and story.

This immersive intensive welcomes both beginners and experienced makers seeking to expand their understanding of paper and book as creative media.

Workshop Flow

Day 1 – The Foundations of Washi
• Overview of papermaking history and tools
• Preparation and beating of kozo fiber
• Sheet forming and couching using sugeta molds

Day 2 – Drying & Surface Preparation
• Drying methods, pressing, and finishing
• Optional coloring and sizing techniques
• Introduction to book structure fundamentals

Day 3 – Binding & Assembly
• Traditional Japanese stab and accordion bindings
• Covers, thread selection, and finishing details
• Group review and discussion on contemporary applications

Note: Ann will be participating in Tropic Bound to return Feb 4-7, 2027! If you are interested in joining a group to go to Miami over the weekend preceding the workshop- please let me know- We can meet and take the Brightline>

Studio Environment
Work in Aya’s spacious, light-filled coastal studio in Stuart, Florida — fully equipped for wet processes and fine paper work. Each participant enjoys ample workspace (never more than two per 4′×8′ table), power, USB access, and drying areas.

Enjoy fresh morning coffee, tea, and pastries, personalized lunch pickups, and a relaxed atmosphere designed for focus and flow.

Details
Instructor: Anne Covell
Dates: February 9-11, 2027
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuition: $980.00
Skill Level: All Levels
Materials Fee: Additional (details provided upon registration)
Class Size: Limited to 10 participants

Discover the quiet power of paper — from fiber to form — and leave with handmade sheets and beautifully bound books that embody patience, balance, and craft.