The Art of Coptic-Binding

Coptic stitch is commonly described as an archaic version of the chain stitch. Coptic binding itself is non-adhesive, and a coptic-bound book can be created with only a paper, thread, and needle.

This style was developed by the Copts, a group of early Christians in Egypt, and used from the 2^nd century AD to the 11^th century. A famous example was the Nag Hammadi, which was bound using single-section Coptic codices. The name Nag Hammadi refers to a location in Egypt where codices dating back to the 2^nd century were found comprising of 52 Gnostic treatises believed to have been hidden by monks.

Books created with this method can be opened flat at 360 degrees without damaging the spine, making it a perfect canvas for painting and sketching. A coptic-bound book is also characterized by an exposed spine and stitches, which adds to its charm and uniqueness.

If you want to try making your own coptic-bound book, visit http://www.altered-book.com/coptic-binding.html.

 

*Photo from bible-researcher.com