Paste Paper Making with Judy Sommerfeldt—Nov 7, 2026 @ 10 am to 3 pm

Discover the creative tradition of paste paper, a decorative paper technique historically used by bookbinders for endpapers, covers, and other decorative elements.

In this hands-on class, students will learn how to prepare and work with colored paste, then use a variety of tools and techniques to create patterns and textures on paper. We will explore traditional approaches as well as opportunities for experimentation, including combing, dragging, stamping, layering, and manipulating the paste to produce unique designs.

Students will create several sheets of their own paste paper and develop an understanding of how different tools, colors, paste consistency, and movements affect the finished pattern.

Topics covered include:

• Preparing paste and adding color
• Selecting appropriate papers
• Applying paste evenly to the paper
• Creating patterns with combs, brushes, tools, and found objects
• Layering and combining colors and textures
• Drying and handling finished sheets
• Using paste paper in bookbinding, endpapers, covers, boxes, and other projects

This class is designed to be approachable for beginners while also giving experienced bookbinders another decorative technique to incorporate into their work.

Students will leave with a collection of handmade paste papers and the knowledge needed to continue experimenting and creating their own designs.