Last year Powell's posted on their Facebook page about a new book called re-bound. It suggests ways to make handmade books from recycled materials like hot water bottles. Immediately I started thinking about all of the possibilities I could use: plastic bags, Starbucks gift cards, old photographs and more.
I almost clicked "purchase" but decided to wait when I saw the Hawaii Library System had a copy. This was a good move because I forgot one important point:
I can't sew.
When the book arrived it felt like a piece of art. It was fun to hold in my hands and the pictures showed so many ideas. But then came the directions and patterns and the need for a sewing machine (which I don't have). After much debate I realized this was too advanced for me.
Rather than admit total failure I sent a comment to Iliana from bookgirl's nightstand. She makes books too and told me to start slower and perhaps take a class.
To satisfy my need for a handmade book, I ordered a beautiful Parisian themed beaded journal. It's made by Iliana and sold on her Etsy store. For thirteen dollars I save myself a lot of grief.
Don't feel bad Rob, I can't sew either, as evidenced by 2 attempts to sew the torn zipper back into my fairly new bathrobe. First time I stitched through the zipper so the zipper tore my stitches, and the second time it fell apart again when I washed it.....this week, I opted for a new robe even though the other was only a few months old...LOL
ReplyDeleteI don't buy craft books, knowing that they will mostly sit unused. But, I did just buy Photo Jojo and we've bought all the supplies to create. We just haven't created anything yet...
ReplyDeleteI've given you an award!
ReplyDeleteAs much as I love to sew books, I can't sew clothes - yet! :) Maybe one day I'll try that.
ReplyDeleteThe funny thing is that some of my family members think I would enjoy knitting and have sent me tons of books, yarn and needles even. So far they are untouched! I actually think I probably would enjoy knitting but there is just not enough time in the day. Sigh... And, I saw a new book - Eco Books I think it's called - check it out if you get a chance. Similar to re-bound but I liked it a bit more so maybe you might enjoy work on some of the projects listed in that one.
Iliana: I'll check out Eco Books. Maybe there's still hope for crafting a book.
ReplyDelete"readerbuzz," Diane: Thank You! I'll post the award later in the week. I appreciate you thinking of me.
Helen: Good luck with Photo Jojo (I'll have to look that one up).
Diane: At least you tried! I never made it past the book.
Thanks everyone for your comments. I'm glad you all stopped by today.
Aloha from Rob
Iliana makes beautiful books. I think I'll pass on this one too.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Chris. After I wrote this post I went and ordered another handmade book from Iliana. It's a good thing!
ReplyDeleteAloha from Rob
I love to sew, do quilt a lot, but there are still lots of books on my shelf which have not been looked at, or maybe looked at but no real attempt made to make stuff from them. They give one such a lot of pleasure just looking at the items I think thats enough for me - for the moment.
ReplyDeleteI opted for a new robe even though the other was only a few months old..
ReplyDeleteWork from home India