Kris Stewart: Creating Longstitch Leather Journals

Workshop Description

Students will learn to craft their own longstitch leather journals by hand. They will choose from a variety of precut leather from the instructor’s collection to create two beautiful longstitch journals, each highlighting different skills and techniques.

We will explore the unique properties of both leather and paper, discovering how they work together. Students will learn how to fold and trim signatures with precision, and how to add end sheets. We will cover essential stitching patterns, and students will learn how to create their own templates for more intricate designs. Students will also have the opportunity to try out a variety of closures to personalize their journals, including leather straps, snaps, and buttons.

Students will leave with two journals, a scratch awl for leather, and handouts with templates.

Materials/Equipment to be Provided by Students

• Cutting mat 12″ x 18″ or larger
• Rotary trimmer with fresh blades
• Small Olfa knife or X-Acto with fresh blades
• Small glue brush
• Bonefolder
• Bookbinders awl
• Non-slip 12″ ruler with metal edge
• Helpful but optional:
  • Centering ruler
  • Quilting square 6″
  • Japanese screw punch with 3mm tip
• Optional:
  • Any objects students would like to try out for closures: flat buttons, flat rings, no-fray ribbon (we’ll see what works)

See Materials Glossary for definitions and images

Materials/Equipment to be Provided by Instructor

• Leather paper
• Decorative paper
• Sewing needles
• Thread tape snaps
• Rivets
• Rings
• Buttons
• PVA
• Scratch awls (for students to keep)
• Specialty leather tools
• Practice supplies

Instructor Biography

Kris Stewart has been crafting books since 1998, starting with hardcover photo albums, then moving to leather journals, sketchbooks, and artist’s books. She teaches workshops in her home studio and is an Artist Member of Combine Art Collective in downtown Walla Walla, Washington.

Instagram: @scrollandinkbookbinding