Paper Marbling

Friday–Saturday, October 16 & 17, 2026 10am–5pm
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$160.00

Participants learn and practice historical and modern paper marbling patterns that were developed for embellishing the end papers of books. Considerations and use of metallic paint are discussed as are ideas on how to use simple, harmonious color palettes using the color wheel. Participants also learn overmarbling, a technique where one pattern is superimposed upon another to create a magnificent and complex play of pattern. Participants leave the workshop with up to thirty sheets of marbled papers.

 

Pietro Acardi began marbling more than thirty-five years ago at his father’s printing press. As a self-taught marbler, he developed his own unique perspective and understanding of marbling through much trial and error. For twelve years Pietro owned a Bookbindery in Turin, Italy and worked for Turin’s main library, the Municipal Archives and University Libraries restoring and binding documents and books. Since coming to the U.S. in 2012, he runs his paper marbling and book restoration business near Lake Tahoe with his wife and cats. He has taught regularly at the San Francisco Center for the Book since 2014. 

 

One half of workshop fee due upon registration.
The balance will be collected at the start of the workshop.