Holiday Japanese Bookbinding Workshop

Celebrate the holiday season with a creative introduction to traditional Japanese bookbinding! Join artist and instructor Mami Takahashi for a hands-on workshop exploring two traditional Japanese binding techniques: Yotsume-toji (四つ目綴じ), a classic four-hole binding, and Kikkō-toji (亀甲綴じ), a decorative tortoise-shell binding pattern.

The workshop begins with a brief introduction to the history and cultural traditions of Japanese bookbinding. Participants will then learn how to assemble and stitch their own notebooks using a variety of papers, colorful threads, and decorative materials.

Starting with the fundamental Yotsume-toji technique, participants can progress to the more intricate Kikkō-toji pattern as they become comfortable with the process.

This special holiday workshop focuses on creating multiple handmade notebooks or journals, perfect for giving to friends and family or keeping for yourself. Each book can be personalized with different papers, colors, and stitching patterns, making every finished piece unique.

Workshop Details

• Date: Saturday, December 19, 2026
• Time: 10:30 AM–12:00 PM
• Location: International Museum of Surgical Science
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Experience: No previous bookbinding experience required
• Materials: All necessary tools and materials provided

Participants will take home their handmade Japanese notebooks and the basic skills to continue exploring Japanese bookbinding independently.

Come enjoy a creative evening and make something meaningful for the holiday season!

About Mami Takahashi:

Mami Takahashi is a Japanese multidisciplinary artist and a scholar working in multiple cities including Chicago and Tokyo. She earned her MFA in Contemporary Studio Practice from Portland State University in 2013 and a BFA in Japanese Painting from Joshibi University of Art and Design in Japan.

With ongoing artistic research, practice, and teaching, Takahashi explores different approaches to actualize Japanese aesthetics to enhance cultural perspectives in many U.S. communities. Takahashi also aims to connect Japan and communities in Chicago by teaching traditional and modern art-making techniques.