Zines and Book-Binding

Class 1. Zines are hand-made and self-published booklets connected to other forms of DIY (do it yourself) and DIT (do it together) publishing like pamphlets, chap books, and blogs. They are an incredibly accessible and flexible format, allowing for a range of stories, experiences, and styles. Anyone can make a zine – including you! Jillian will review common formats and approaches, using examples from her 30+ year collection of zines. Each participant will then learn at least 3 different ways to make a zine (including 8-page and 16-page mini-zines from a single sheet of paper; quarter- and half-page zines with various bindings; and accordion). Participants will also contribute to a collaborative zine that will be mailed to each participant after class. Each person will leave with a minimum of 3 hand-made zines and the tools to make and share more!
Class 2. There are so many ways to bind paper and covers to make one-of-a-kind books! Participants will learn three distinctive binding techniques: spiral binding, twig and yarn, and multiple kinds of stitching. Jillian will bring examples of book-binding that use both new and repurposed materials (including but not limited to skewers, buttons, packaging, ribbon, pull-tabs from milk cartons). Each participant will learn 3 basic book-making techniques, as well as modifications for alternate materials. The size and style of the books you make can reflect your personality! Each person will leave with 3-6 unique hand-made booklets to keep or gift.
Class 3. This work session is open to any of Jillian’s zine and/or book-binding HDA students from 2025 and 2026. This class will be an opportunity to work on your projects in community with others; to benefit from Jillian’s guidance and expertise; and to have access to Jillian’s tools and materials. Note: please only sign up for this if you have taken one of Jillian’s zine or book-binding classes.

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