May 14-18, 2025
The Long Stitch… Making Books for Every Day
with Kathy Steinsberger & Diann Fuller
Instructors Kathy and Diann.
Explore the longstitch binding with as many as three different book bindings, covers and closures. You’ll have the opportunity to make a simple, soft & sturdy leather book, an ancient-style leather and papyrus Nag Hammadi book, and a lovely hardcover sketchbook with leather spine and colorful pastepaper cover. We’ll make our own pastepaper to incorporate as cover papers, signature covers, fold-outs, pockets, and envelopes. We’ll explore materials such as leather, papyrus, handmade paper, and textiles for handmade bookcloth. And we’ll use a variety of closure options including magnets, elastic, and braided cords. Each book will have its own personality and story as we incorporate our own words, collaged elements, hand-drawn imagery, and content.
Each day Diann will lead us in movement and spirit work as Kathy guides us through the steps of making our beautiful and personal books. We’ll have time to experience the natural beauty of Gray Bear, meditate on a walk through the woods or to the waterfall, soak in the hot tub and sauna, and have body work done by the many amazing healers on staff. We’ll nourish our bodies and our souls with the delicious meals as we gather each day in the company of friends. It is a wonderful mix of craft, art, nature’s beauty, and spirit in a community of amazing people.
Kathy was a ceramic artist for over 20 years and a book artist for 22. In 2001 she began to combine
book arts with her clay, and in books she found her passion. In addition to teaching at Gray Bear,
she has taught book arts classes at Pullen Arts Center; Beaufort Arts Center; Cary Arts Center; the
NCSU School of Design; and Penland School of Crafts. Her books and pottery have been in
numerous shows and exhibitions throughout the southeast. Examples of her pottery have been
included in the books Handbuilt Tableware II and 500 Pitchers. In 2012 she acquired her own
letterpress and set up her private letterpress studio, Orange Lantern Press. In 2015 she changed its
name to PaperButtons Press. She has written and printed many limited-edition artist’s books, many
of which are depicted on her blog at paperbuttons.blogspot.com
Read more about Kathy...
Diann Fuller is the co-director of Gray Bear Lodge and High Forest Institute. She began her yoga practice in 1985. Diann combines her love of the Earth and her gentle teaching style with harmony and balance.
This weekend is open for all to attend. No prior experience is needed in any way. Individuals, friends or couples: all are welcome.
Workshop discounted at $895 if paid in full by April 1st. Limited to ten participants. Supplies included. *All prices include tuition, all materials for journal making, daily yoga class, meals, shared lodging and full use of facilities. A limited number of private cabins may be available for upgrade; please inquire if interested. All balances are due upon registration. MC/Visa, Venmo, PayPal, Check accepted. Gray Bear Lodge, PO Box 682 Hohenwald, TN 38462. Late registration (after April 1st) increases to $995. Confirmation letter and additional information (including directions to Gray Bear) will be sent. Payment plan option offered if needed; please inquire. A $300 non-refundable deposit may be mailed to secure your space.
We'll begin with guests arriving between 1:30 and 3:30 on Wednesday. Making of Pastepaper begins as early as 2:00 and continues until dinner which is served at 6:00pm. (Earlier arrival is recommended. ) Please inquire for optional Pre-event arrival on Tuesday if flying for ease of travel schedule. Sunday finishes with brunch and checkout is at 11:00. (*) Gray Bear is a two hour drive from the airport, so please plan arrival time/ departure time with this in mind.
Gray Bear is home to 400 acres of rolling hills, thick forest, natural springs, and even a waterfall. You can experience the wonders of nature while sitting in a hand-built wood fire sauna; hear the silence of nature's symphony lying on a hammock while curled under a blanket; and revel in clear air and water while using shower outdoors.
With all of this nature we have some suggestions to consider when packing:
- Working flashlight ...it gets dark with only the light of the stars to guide you!
- A bathing suit ... good for the hot tub, sauna, and Watsu massage pool
- Water bottle ...Gray Bear does not use disposable cups. Purified water is available in the Main House and the Yoga Room
- A bath robe/sarong
- House slippers or socks to wear indoors ...no shoes inside please
- Comfortable walking shoes/sandals for an inspired nature hike
- Warm clothing ...mornings & evenings can be cool
- Comfortable clothes for exercising/yoga
Please do not bring any drugs, alcohol, or pets. Gray Bear is a non-smoking, pet-free and alcohol-free facility.
Questions: call 615-782-0469