Bookbinding: Cleaning a Dried Out Glue Brush
What to do when you really can’t get the PVA out of the glue brush . . .
On Drawing Celtic Knots
I’m in love with all the doodles, Zentangles, zendoodles and other drawing techniques that are so hot right now. As I’ve been reading about the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Book of Kells lately my doodle love has turned into a full-blown case of Celtic Knot Love. The beautiful knots incorporated in some of the illuminations in the manuscripts are […]
Bookbinding: The Thomas Hoard
A couple of weeks ago I taught a class on Gothic-style book furniture/hardware. My student, Kath Thomas, did amazing work! In spite of having a cold, and having never worked in metal before, Kath was quite prolific and produced what I like to call The Thomas Hoard. I have to say, Kath’s energy is inspiring! Great […]
Bookbinding: Customize Your Awl Handle
Binding books is about so much more than just the finished book. I love the process of designing the book and of choosing the materials. The subtle texture of paper and the smell of leather are irresistible. The simple act of calculating the thread or stringing a sewing frame starts focusing my mind on the […]
Bookbinding: Double Sided Tape Is Versatile
Double sided tape in strips from a roll or in sheets can be used in many, many crafts. Books Neater Than Glue Double-sided tape is a wonderful way to assemble our Star Book Kits and others that require an adhesive. Less glue mess and much faster. Envelopes And Boxes Clear Tape Can Be Very Useful If […]
Bookbinding: Operetta Book Kits – Two Examples
I love to practice bookbinding and page decoration almost as much as I enjoy designing the kits. These examples were made with the Operetta Book Kit. [smartslider3 slider=”41″]
Bookbinding: Raised Supports On Spine
The book with the blue cover was bound using 15th Century Europe style. The green goat leather book has raised supports made with our 12-ply Irish linen thread.
Bookbinding: Drying Flowers In The Microwave
Dried leaves and flowers can be sandwiched between two mica or glass sheets and used for book embellishment. This is how I dry flowers in the microwave using microwave-safe plates instead of expensive devices. This will definitely not work on all flowers but, even in my limited garden, there are plenty that do work. On […]
Bookbinding: Miniature Book With Glass Bevel Cover
I made this miniature book from our 2″ X 3″ Glass Bevels.
Bookbinding: Fall Copper Miniature Book
I wanted this miniature book sewn with proportionately light thread so I used our 2-ply waxed thread. The book is The Language of Selected Flowers and Plants. The covers are enameled copper and the spine is goat skin. Dimensions are 1-13/16″ H X 2″ W