WHY LEARN BOOKBINDING WITH US?

The Owl & Lion Bindery, located in Ultimo, Sydney, is led by Isabelle, a skilled bookbinder with over 20 years teaching experience. We offer a diverse range of workshops and courses in bookbinding and related arts, welcoming both beginners and experienced practitioners.

Our hands‑on classes cater to different skill levels and schedules, guiding participants to craft beautifully finished books. Whether you’re pursuing bookbinding as a passion, a hobby, or a profession, we make this timeless craft accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring.

We also design tailored classes for school groups, teachers, community organisations, and libraries; creating engaging, practical experiences for all ages. Beyond our Sydney studio, Isabelle shares her expertise and enthusiasm with bookbinding enthusiasts around the world, teaching at international venues and events.

For inquiries or to discuss customised workshops, contact us at hello@owlandlion.com.

FAQs

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
No previous bookbinding experience is required to join our Beginners class. However, enrolment in Level 1 and advanced classes is only available upon successful completion of the Beginners course.

Participants should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, including health and safety guidelines.

Basic numeracy skills, such as taking simple measurements and performing basic calculations, are also required.

How will I be taught?
Three options are available;

  • One-on-one individual learning

  • Small group tuition

  • Online classes.

    All sessions are taught with practical demonstrations and individual attention as required from a highly skilled and trained Bookbinder. 

How does the class work?
All our bookbinding course lasts up to 3 hours, with a small tea break.

Choose from our set courses or come and discuss your own projects.

All 3 hours session are charged at $350.

Choose from the following time slots:

10am - 1pm OR 1-4pm Monday to Friday

6-9pm session available on Wednesday and Thursday

Please contact us to discuss: hello@owlandlion.com

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
For all in-bindery set courses, all materials and tools for working on will be provided along with refreshments (tea, coffee, biscuits).

The bindery is fully equipped but you are welcome to bring your own hand tools. For online courses, all tools and materials can be ordered and posted out to you. 

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Course Cancellation
Courses will only be cancelled in the event of unexpected or exceptional circumstances. In such cases, participants will be offered a full refund or the option to transfer to an alternative class. There is no minimum enrolment required for a course to proceed; unless there are extenuating circumstances, the course will run as scheduled.

We will make every effort to notify you of a cancellation, so it is important to provide both a daytime and evening phone numbers and email address.

Refunds
If you need to cancel your booking, please notify us as soon as possible. Cancellations take effect from the date your email is received.

Refunds are not offered under any circumstances. However, if we are notified at least 14 days before the course begins, we are happy to offer alternative dates. You may transfer your booking to another class up to three times.

This policy does not affect your statutory rights.

Let’s work together.

Interested in a class we don’t currently teach? Fill out some info and we will do our best. We can't wait to hear from you!