‘Books as Art: Stab Stitch Bindings’

Explore the book form as an artistic medium with The Church on Sunday, April 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Instructed by Samuel Havens, “Book as Art: Stab Stitch Bindings” will lead participants through the ancient technique of stab binding. Often characterized by its geometric patterns and exposed spine, this traditional binding style originated in East Asia during the 1600s and was the primary method for most books created during the Edo Period in Japan. Its single-sheet structure offers the opportunity to combine pages of varying weight, size, texture and material into a cohesive arrangement, making each turn of the page an exciting new experience.

Over the course of four hours, participants will explore the limitless possibilities of this unique binding method and its application as an art. From just paper, book board, and thread, each participant will fabricate a stab-bound book of their own creation, while learning fundamental bookbinding skills, tricks and techniques along the way.

As a local artist, Samuel Haven’s artistic inspiration comes from his experiences and encounters in the world around him, focusing mainly on the connections between space and thought, exploring their underlying relation to one another. He works mainly in the mediums of intaglio printmaking and artist books. Havens graduated from SUNY Oneonta in spring 2021 with a BFA in Studio and Digital Art. His work has been shown publicly and privately across the nation, including being exhibited at the Center for Book Arts in Manhattan.

The cost of the workshop is $75. Reserve at thechurchsagharbor.org. The Church is at 48 Madison Street, Sag Harbor.