Full Day Retreat - Altered Book and Pockets Workshop
Altered Book Full-Day Workshop at Muckabout
Join Ninna for a full day of creative exploration as you learn the art of transforming an ordinary book into a one-of-a-kind mixed-media treasure!
Morning Session – Altering Your Book
Start the day with Ninna as she guides you through the foundational techniques of altering a book. You'll learn how to prepare and transform the pages, create structure, add fold-outs, reinforce sections, and begin shaping your book into a beautiful, personalized art piece. With guidance and inspiration, you’ll turn a simple book into a creative canvas ready to be filled.
✨ Afternoon Session – Pockets, Pages & Embellishments
After lunch, Ninna will lead you through creating an array of fun, functional additions for your altered book. Learn how to craft pockets, tuck spots, tags, flip-outs, and charming embellishments using a variety of papers, textures, and mixed-media techniques. Then you’ll begin placing and attaching these elements into your book, bringing it to life with layers, personality, and delightful surprises.
By the end of the day, you’ll head home with a beautifully altered book—already filled with handmade details—and the skills and inspiration to keep creating more pages, more books, and more magic on your own.
All materials are provided. No experience necessary.
Just bring your enthusiasm and enjoy a creative day at Muckabout!
Altered Book Art Workshop - Transform Old Books into Beautiful, Personal Treasures
Welcome to the world of altered books - where creativity meets storytelling and transformation! In this hands-on class, we’ll guide you through the beautiful process of turning old, forgotten books into meaningful art journals, memory keepers, and imaginative mixed media masterpieces.
What Is an Altered Book?
An altered book is a form of mixed media artwork that transforms a book from its original form into something entirely new. Using the pages of an old book as your canvas, you'll layer, cut, paint, collage, stitch, and write to create something completely personal and unique. No two altered books are ever alike!
What Will We Use?
You’ll learn how to repurpose an existing hardcover book as the foundation for your project. Then, we’ll dive into using things to decorate your book, like paints, inks, and gesso. Collage materials like vintage papers, photos, ephemera, maps, and fabrics. Stamps, stencils, and embellishments. Glue, washi tape, scissors, markers, thread, and more...
We encourage upcycling and using what you already have - altered books are a celebration of creativity without waste.
What Can You Use an Altered Book For?
Art journals to express your emotions or record daily life.
Memory books filled with photos, keepsakes, and stories.
Vision boards or personal manifestos.
Themed art pieces nature, travel, dreams, quotes, etc.
Creative experiments and a place to play freely without pressure.
Whether you want to make something meaningful or just enjoy a few hours of creative escape, altered books offer endless possibilities.
Why It's Fun and Good for the Soul
Altering books combines the joy of making art with the satisfaction of recycling and reimagining. It's meditative, freeing, and deeply personal. You don’t need to be “an artist” you just need curiosity and a willingness to explore. This practice boosts creativity, reduces stress, and helps you connect with your inner voice in a tactile, grounding way.
By the end of this class, you’ll leave with a book that’s entirely your own—and the inspiration to keep going! Whether you're a journaling enthusiast, an artist looking to try something new, or a total beginner, this class is for you.
Whats included: including alot of stuff to make a book in class and even some stuff to start filling up your book.
Payment is due at time of booking. Book online on our website, or call to make your paid reserve for your spot.
Cancellation: We require 24 hours or more for cancellation. Cancellation credit for a future workshop within the following 6 months. No Credits issued for no shows or last-minute cancellations.
LOCATION
Muckabout Gift Gallery
Private Class Opportunities. If these dates don't work for you? Or you would prefer to hang out and create with your friends you can book a private group class with us. Bring 4 or more to fill a small class. Give us a call at Muckabout to set up your group with a date and time.