I don’t really know why this structure is called Sewn Boards, but I can tell you that a lot of work goes in to it that winds up being covered up. This is another project with the #HandmadeBookClub, and it was my first experience with using Kraftex. It was also another opportunity to practice precision – I’d give myself a solid B/B- in matching up the edges. The stripey paper is a long-ago gift from my dear friend who sees me and my obsessions and aids and abets me regularly.
I’ve shown this paper before, apparently it’s one of my favorites. I’d already used it for some drop spine and clamshell boxes, along with a small coptic notebook, but I really like the Secret Belgian Binding too (thanks again, @barizakistudio and @rosspressandbindery). In case it’s not already obvious, paper is only one of my many stashes – seems like if it is something that comes in a bunch of colors, I need it, in a bunch of colors.
One of the things I’m enjoying about the Handmade Book Club are the monthly projects. In the club, the monthly projects are usually about learning new structures while over in the free group, Vintage Page Designs, they are theme challenges. This month the theme was poetry. Now I certainly don’t write poetry, and to be honest I don’t even read it very often, but now and then there have been poems that have impacted me deeply. This past year it has been Mary Oliver’s poem about worry. I also don’t letter very well, but I thought I would give it all a try with this project. Here are some pictures of the inside pages.
Here’s a little 2 needle Coptic book made with homemade bookcloth. I make bookcloth using the Heat N Bond and tissue paper method, and it’s a great way to use up the huge stash of fabric I have and give me more color and pattern options.
This is not my first handmade book, but my first project with the #handmadebookclub. Ali Manning has put together a great community and I’m looking forward to making it part of my creative practice and creative community.