Uncategorized

IMG_8610

I made a reading log, and you can too

0

IMG_8603

Time to see what kind of book I’ve made.

IMG_8606

It’s a reading log!

IMG_8607

When I finish a book I like to record the title, author, the date that I finished it, and my rating. This helps me to keep track of what I’ve read when, and if perhaps I’m remembering a book being better or worse that I had found it to be upon first completion. It also gives a nice feeling of accomplishment to get to write down another book finished. 

IMG_8608

I made the last page an annual reading goal log. I can record the year, what my reading goal was, and how many books I managed to complete. 

IMG_8612

If you would like to create your own reading log, you can click below to download a printable PDF of the page layouts to build your signatures. 

Download Reading Log Template Pages

Title Page

First Entry

Inside Pages

Last Page

Binding 006

A good book has a strong spine

0

Binding 001

One final design decision to make before I can begin binding – what color thread to use on the spine.

Binding 002

With thread selected, I can begin the sewing. For a Coptic binding you use this style of curved needles. It can feel like you’re working with fish hooks!

Binding 003

I begin by sewing the first signature onto the cover. Here you can see where I have sewn through those pre-punched holes. 

Binding 004

With this style of binding one of the sets of holes is angled to come out on the edge of board. It always feels like it’s not going to work out, but somehow it does. 

Binding 005

This is why you need the curved needles. Part of the binding process is taking the needle and swooping it behind the set of stitches on the signature below. This is what ends up creating the stacked chain look of the stitching along the spine.

Binding 006

Nearly done sewing in all the signatures. In theory, you could sew in an endless amount, but I tend to like around ten. 

Binding 007

It’s important to keep your threads neat and organized as you go. 

Binding 008

Attaching the back cover. 

Binding 009

And just like that, your pile of papers and boards have suddenly become a book!

Binding 011

I always enjoy this style of binding project because it comes together so quickly once it gets going. There are a ton of instructional videos and guides online that can take you through the process in detail. The first time might be a little challenging, but once you’ve finished your first book you’ll be able to replicate it with ease. Why not give it a try!

Valentine

Victorian Valentines

0

  • Vintage Valentine 001
    Image courtesy of vintageholidaycrafts.com
  • Vintage Valentine 003
    Image courtesy of vintageholidaycrafts.com
  • Vintage Valentine 002
    Image courtesy of vintageholidaycrafts.com
  • Vintage Valentine 004
    Image courtesy of vintageholidaycrafts.com
  • Vintage Valentine 005
    Image courtesy of vintageholidaycrafts.com

In the world of vintage ephemera, Victorian Valentine’s Day cards are some of the most beautiful. When I began to pull inspiration for the tarot card images, I knew it had to come from these charming cards.