Julia Miller
Enrollment limited to twelve.

The spine of the instructor's model of Codex C with the wrapping band in place.
The upper cover of Codex C showing the interlace pattern and central cruciform decoration; the pattern is created by making a first impression with a burnisher and then inking in the lines. The bookmark is laced into the upper corner edge, and the wrapping band along the fore edge.
Participants have the option to leave one cover of their binding unattached so that the spine of the text block, the sewing, endbanding, and linen lining can be seen.
Another view of the codex model, showing the vestiges of ink decoration on the lower edge of the text block.
The beautiful single-link endband style of Codex C.

ive Coptic codices were found near Sakkara in Egypt around 1924. Two had leather spines and wooden covers, two had lost their covers, and one small volume, Codex C, was bound in remnants of a full maroon-red goatskin cover over papyrus boards.  

Regarding Codex C, fragments also survive of an elaborate fore-edge wrapping band with a bone slip, and there is evidence that it also once carried a bookmark.

In our workshop we will make a full-size model of Codex C (now known as Chester Beatty Ms. 815).  

Over the course of three days you will make the papyrus boards; fold and trim paper as a substitute for the original parchment text; sew the text block; tie simple endbands; line the spine with coarse linen; create the full leather binding; and make the wrapping band and bookmark.  

You will shape a spatulate bone slip from a length of cow bone. And if you like, you will have the option to add ink decoration to the text edges.  

In order to practice the interlace tooling and ink decoration of this binding, you will make a plaquette of leather on board. Once you gain confidence you will apply the tooling and ink decoration to the covers and spine of your Codex C model. These design elements lend a distinctive style to this small binding.    

Finally, you will attach the wrapping band, bone slip, and bookmark.

Participants have the option to leave one cover of their binding unattached so that the spine of the text block, the sewing, endbanding, and linen lining can be seen.

The workshop will be supported with short lectures and handouts that include historical background information on Coptic bindings, a reading list, and class instructions.  

Julia will bring a variety of historical models of early Coptic binding styles and related binding traditions for workshop participants to handle, study, and photograph.  

Basic binding skills are required to make this model including some experience with sewing a text block. The amount of leather preparation will be minimal; paring skill is not required. Inquire if you are uncertain of your skill level.  

This structure is both a good starting point for those interested in creating historical binding models, and a fine addition for more advanced practitioners who wish to include this example in their collection of models.

About one month before the workshop, registrants will receive a tool list, directions to the studio, and any other pertinent logistical information via email. Workshop hours are usually from 9:30 until about 5:00. Please do not buy an airplane ticket or make any other non-refundable payment before checking with us to be sure the workshop for which you have registered has sufficient enrollment.

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