My biblionautic chums and friends.
Sunday in Studio 5.... A student on the 2nd module of the Studio 5 Creative Studies in Contemporary Bookbinding and Book Arts course.
A 4 day intensive that follows on from the Multi Sectional Flat Back Case Bound Book Module. Last Sunday was day 3 with the 2 previous days (last week) concentrating on section folding, tipped on end papers, rounding and backing, applied end bands etc etc etc.... Oh and Flottage paper.. we do a lot!
First we start with the handle letters and ink pads, learning how to hold the tools, correct movement of the letters and pressure. Then we move to lettering with carbon paper. In this phase we learn about heat and and placement. Finally on to foil... this phase is all about dwell.... how long the heated tool is in contact with the foil.
As a teacher, for the introduction of lettering in foil I feel it is important for the student to be at ease, gradually learning the various steps involved. Equally I do not bog the student down with the need to get everything in a straight line.. that may/can come later with practise. The 3 key elements are pressure, temperature and dwell, additionally I do like to encourage a little fun and experimentation.... And why not?
As one of my tutors was oft heard to say... "It's a lesson plan darling".
In the past I have seen other tutors teaching lettering with foil, they make it appear so complicated... so difficult... no wonder so many students and beginners are scared off. If the subject is broken down in to small steps, each step leading on to the next to build up the skills then it becomes a pleasure not a chore.. Fun is the key I feel.
Please note.... there are other studios/binderies doing stuff, spelling and grammar. Please further note, the opinion of the author may change at any moment. This is due to having an open mind of sorts.
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