Crossed Structure Bindings
Crossed Structure Bindings is an intermediate bookmaking workshop at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center focused on creating two journals with a non-adhesive binding method that can be repeated at home. Inspired by medieval long-stitch bindings, the technique interlocks the front and back paper covers at the spine and sews the inner signatures directly to the stiff covers. The finished books open completely flat, making them well suited to sketchbooks and journals. Participants will learn two variations of the Crossed Structure binding and gain practical knowledge of the materials, tools, and processes needed to make additional books independently.
The workshop is taught by Nathalie A. Ryan, an educator, artist, writer, musician, and teaching artist based in Washington, DC. Ryan is a senior educator at the National Gallery of Art, where she has led programs for educators, families, teens, and adults since 2002. She has also taught with Harvard Project Zero since 2008 and offers book arts, box-making, and letterpress workshops at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center and the John C. Campbell Folk School. Her work includes exploring the relationship between awe, creativity, mindfulness, and well-being through the arts.
When: December 13
Showtimes: 10:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Venue: Pyramid Atlantic Art Center
Tickets: $252
Registration deadline: December 5, 2026
Level: Intermediate. Previous Introduction to Bookmaking coursework or comparable experience with basic bookmaking techniques totaling at least six hours is required.
Projects: Participants will make two journals and learn two Crossed Structure binding variations.
Materials: Registration includes a $70 materials fee covering paper, decorative papers, linen thread, and access to bindery tools and equipment.
What to bring: An apron and a notebook or sketchbook for taking notes are optional; the venue will have extra aprons available. A materials list is provided with the registration confirmation email.
Instructor: Nathalie A. Ryan, Ed.M., M.A., is a National Gallery of Art senior educator, Harvard Project Zero instructor, teaching artist, certified mindfulness meditation facilitator, and advocate for the arts’ role in cognitive and social-emotional well-being.