The Designer Bookbinders/Society of Bookbinders Joint Workshops began in 2004 when the two societies recognised the need to provide high-quality training following the closure of many college courses. The partnership has helped build a closer working relationship between the two societies and promote the craft of bookbinding more widely. Six weekend workshops are held each year at locations around the country, covering a range of topics from traditional techniques to innovative structures. Tutors include Fellows of Designer Bookbinders, respected book restorers, and well-known bookbinders from the UK and overseas.
The workshops are currently being organised by:
Wanda Robins (Society of Bookbinders) and Jane Adams (Designer Bookbinders).
Joint Workshops 2026
We have kept the course fees for this year’s programme at the same level as last year and hope you agree they present excellent value. Fees for each workshop are £185 for members of either Society, £205 for non members. There is a materials cost for most workshops which is payable to the tutor during the weekend.
Bursary help may be available for members of the Societies. If you are interested in applying for a bursary, and are a member of SoB, please contact Wanda Robins at [email protected]. If you belong to both Societies you should apply to only one of them for a bursary.
To book, click the button next to the course you are interested in and you will be redirected to the Designer Bookbinders website where you can complete your booking and payment.
For any queries or further information regarding the workshops, or if the workshop you wish to attend is full and you wish to be added to the waiting list, contact Wanda Robins at [email protected].
DB/SoB Joint Workshops 2026 Terms and Conditions
- Registration will only take place on receipt of full course fees.
- The fee does not include accommodation or travel.
- The materials charge is payable to the tutor during the workshop.
- Full details of venue and a list of tools and equipment to bring will be sent nearer the time of the workshop.
- Cancellation policy: once the course fee has been paid and a place accepted, no refunds are available except in exceptional circumstances (or if a replacement can be found who is able to attend the Workshop in your place).
- The organisers reserve the right to change the location and date of the workshop or to cancel, in which case you will be offered a full refund or if you choose, a place on any re-scheduled workshop.
- By registering, you accept that none of the Society of Bookbinders, Designer Bookbinders, the organisers, the landlords of the premises where the workshops take place, nor the workshop leaders accept any liability for loss, damage, personal injury or consequential damages.






