Step into the world of literature and craftsmanship in Paper Leaf Bindery’s Jane Austen bookbinding classes using the historic French Link Stitch. This elegant and durable binding method dates back centuries and is as beautiful as it is strong — perfect for preserving stories that have stood the test of time.
Whether you join us in person at our bindery or online from the comfort of your home, you’ll receive all the supplies you need, prepared and ready for you to begin your project. No experience is necessary — just a love of books and a desire to create something truly lasting.
Why the French Link Stitch?
The French Link Stitch is a decorative sewn binding technique known for:
- Strength and flexibility — your book will open beautifully and last for generations.
- Visual charm — the subtle linking of threads creates a delicate yet intricate pattern along the spine.
- Historical authenticity — a method used for centuries to bind treasured volumes, making it perfect for a Jane Austen novel.
In this class, you’ll learn to prepare signatures, sew your book block using the French Link Stitch, and create a hardbound cover with your choice of beautiful fabrics from Riley Blake’s Jane Austen collection — each design inspired by Austen’s life and works.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of this class, you will:
- Understand the history and technique of the French Link Stitch.
- Prepare and sew your own book block.
- Construct a durable, elegant hardcover.
- Use archival materials for heirloom-quality results.
- Gain skills you can use to bind other books in the future.
Choose Your Class Format
We offer this class in person and online so you can learn in the way that works best for you:
In Person
Join us at Paper Leaf Bindery for hands-on guidance in a small group setting. You’ll work at your own table with access to professional bookbinding tools and personalized instruction.
Online
Learn from anywhere with our live virtual class. We’ll ship you a complete kit containing all the materials you’ll need — prepared, measured, and ready to go — along with written and video instructions for reference after class.
All Supplies Included
No matter which class format you choose:
- Your kit will include pre-cut and folded pages, archival thread, book board, cover fabric, and all other materials.
- We use professional, conservation-grade supplies so your finished book will last for decades.
Bind Your Favorite Austen Novel
Throughout the year, we offer opportunities to bind each of Jane Austen’s six beloved novels:
- Pride and Prejudice
- Sense and Sensibility
- Emma
- Mansfield Park
- Northanger Abbey
- Persuasion
Many students return to complete the full collection, creating a personal Austen library bound entirely by hand.