FOBA 2024 - Shawn Sheehy – Movable Magic: The Animating Binding

Class Overview - All Levels

In the 1960’s, Bronx-based Child Guidance Books published a series that exploits a unique mechanical approach to animation: a self-pulling mechanism— integrated into the binding—that causes figures to dance on the page without apparent means. Wouldn’t you like to add this animation strategy to your book artist toolbox? Join paper engineer Shawn Sheehy in building this five-spread workshop model, featuring various applications of this dynamic and versatile mechanism. Lift volumes, create lateral and rotational movement, and more! All you’ll need is a simple set of hand tools and an interest in engaging with paper mechanics. All skill levels welcome. (You’ll be especially well-prepared if you take the “Satisfaction of Movables” first.) See the structure in motion: https://youtu.be/SJUc8Nmpd0A

CLASS SUPPLIES

• X-Acto knife with extra blades
• Bone folder
• Awl
• Binding needle
• Microspatula
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Cutting mat
• Pencil
• Japanese screw punch (optional)