The AAB Experience
Support and Mentorship
AAB Staff and Faculty are committed to making sure you have the tools and resources to build your skills and activate your curiosity. Instructors with unparalleled experience and expertise provide a deep level of instruction, guidance and mentorship.
Classes are generally held from 9 AM to 5 PM with an hour break for lunch. The time is divided between presentation of information, demonstration, and hands-on work. Students have 24-hour access to the studio throughout the duration of the course and are often found working late or coming in early; and continuing their projects on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for two-week classes. Most students find that they wish to make the most of their time at AAB and are encouraged to approach their learning experience in a serious and focused manner.
AAB often hosts an instructor slideshow/presentation one evening during the course; as well as a class party, usually in the evening after the last day of class. These gatherings are not mandatory, but they can be a wonderful opportunity for deeper discussion and enhanced relationships within the bookbinding community.
The Old Stone Building
Built circa 1909 and constructed of native stone and red limestone mortar, The Old Stone Building is not just your studio, it is your bookbinding retreat. In addition to the working studio, The Old Stone Building includes a Library, Lounge, Kitchen, and Supply Store. We even have a shower and laundry facilities if you need.
The Old Stone Building was first used as a livery stable and assay office, and then by old Step-and-a-Half Adams, the local undertaker, for his trade. The building experienced many business incarnations over the decades. Completely gutted and remodeled in 2009 and 2010, the beautifully renovated facility is your home away from home. In 2025 The Old Stone Building was gifted to the American Academy of Bookbinding, ensuring that generations of bookbinders will experience the joy of the craft.
AAB is exceptional. It continues to be the best place to train as a binder in this country. ~ Matthew Zimmerman
I absolutely cannot wait to be back. My time here has been magical and such a delight. Thank you, AAB. ~ Emily Peifer
Telluride
Telluride is a spectacular backdrop for this intensive program. In addition to being a designated National Historic District and a Colorado Creative Arts District, the town is surrounded by rugged 13,000-foot peaks … the sheer force of their beauty and immensity instills a level of awe that welcomes creativity and intellectual pursuit. Outside of class, students can hike trails in easily accessed wilderness areas, amble along the San Miguel River, and enjoy local art and dining. With cool nights and warm days, nothing beats the Colorado Rocky Mountains as a perfect setting for the American Academy of Bookbinding.
Travel to the Academy
When making travel arrangements to AAB, it is usually best to fly into the Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) and take the Telluride Express Shuttle service directly to AAB at 117 Willow St., Telluride, CO 81435. Arrange for the shuttle service to drop you off and pick you up at AAB or your accommodations.
Many AAB courses begin with a Meet & Greet the evening before class starts (or the first morning of class) to connect with students and instructors; become familiar with the studio; and prepare materials for the week ahead. Students are encouraged to arrive early on the Wednesday before class to get settled. You may wish to arrive a day or two earlier than that if you forsee needing extra time to adjust to Telluride’s altitude (8,750’). When you know your travel plans, please let us know, so we can be here to meet you.
Departures should be scheduled for the Tuesday after the course ends. If your flight departs later than your checkout time, students can store their luggage at AAB until their shuttle arrives.
Lodging
Students must make their own lodging arrangements. Hotels, AirBnB, VRBO, camping are available. Sharing an AirBnB with other students is often the most affordable option. If you’d like to be connected with other students looking for housing, please let us know.
Plan as early as possible. We are a small mountain resort town, so arranging your lodging is important. Remember, once you register for a class, your non-refundable deposit is, well, non-refundable, so you will want to make sure you have accounted for all your expenses during your time with us.
Telluride Housing Options • Additional Resources: Visit Telluride • Town Park Campground
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