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In this workshop you will create your own handmade herbarium book in which to preserve plant specimens, make botanical illustrations, and record your observations of nature. Collecting botanical specimens in books was a popular 18th and 19th century pastime, and making a personal herbarium is a valuable and enjoyable way to learn about the plants in your local environment and create a beautiful, unique collection for reference.

We will be using the Coptic-stitch style of bookbinding, which dates back to the 2nd century AD, and is an elegant yet beginner-friendly method of making books. In addition to constructing and binding the book, we will discuss methods for pressing and preserving plants before they are stored, ethics around harvesting from the wild, and tools for botanical identification. All materials will be provided and no prior bookbinding experience is necessary.

This workshop is hosted by CraftStudies and will take place at A Lucky Girl Studio in Norwich, VT.