Workshop: Wood + Thread: Bind Your Own Book with Hugo Nakashima-Brown

Discover the joy of making your own hand-bound book in this beginner-friendly workshop led by local woodworker Hugo Nakashima-Brown. Using simple tools and techniques, learn how to sew together pages and attach sturdy wooden covers using the classic “Coptic” binding style—famous for its beautiful exposed stitch and a spine that lets books open completely flat (perfect for sketching, writing, or creative journaling). You'll leave with a unique journal created by you and a new appreciation for one of the world’s oldest bookmaking traditions!

Timely arrival is expected, as this is a structured class--not a drop-in.

Hugo Nakashima-Brown (Instructor) is a teaching artist, designer, and woodworker based in Allston-Brighton. His exhibition Familiar Faces | Living Spaces is on display at the Crossings Gallery through October 23, 2025

Registration includes supplies and dinner.
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Advance registration is preferred for all Ed Portal programs and events. Walk-in attendees may not be admitted.

Parking is limited around the Ed Portal so we recommend taking public transportation.

Public transportation options:

We are about a 15-20 minute walk from the Red Line Harvard Square station or Green Line -B Harvard Avenue station.

Several MBTA buses also stop near the intersection of North Harvard Street and Western Avenue: #66, #86, #70.

Parking information:

If you choose to drive to the Ed Portal please be prepared to utilize the two-hour on-street parking surrounding the Ed Portal or to park at Artesani Park and walk 10-12 minutes along Western Avenue to arrive at the Ed Portal. A limited number of parking spaces are available in the rear of the Ed Portal building on a first come, first serve basis. You may only use parking spaces in the rear of the Ed Portal building outlined in orange paint.

To help protect visitors and staff, members of the public are asked to stay home if they are unwell or have experienced signs of illness* in the past 24-hours.

If you require an accommodation for a disability, please call the Ed Portal ahead of time at 617-496-5022 or e-mail us at edportal@harvard.edu, and we will do our best to assist you.

* Signs of illness include: fever, chills or feeling feverish; a new cough (not related to chronic condition); new fatigue; muscle or body aches; sore throat; new nasal congestion or new runny nose (not related to seasonal allergies); nausea or vomiting; diarrhea.