[updated 31 August 2018 with more images] I've had a couple of particularly enjoyable commissions this year that gave me opportunities to try out fresh colour combinations (quite influenced by my nordic noir TV-viewing habits, admittedly) and new, luxurious materials. Now they're safely with their owners, I can share them with you:
I was delighted when silk weaver Robert Ely of Papilionaceous in Devon commissioned this leather journal. You may have spotted Papilionaceous ribbons in period television dramas and films, such as Pride & Prejudice, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell and Poldark.
This journal features Robert's own double weight Jacquard silk woven edge ribbon in the Acorn patten, Peach / Anemone colourway.
Using double the amount of silk in the weft compared to his standard ribbon, the 40mm wide Acorn holds its shape beautifully yet drapes and curls with ease for a delightful experience opening and closing the journal.
Because the ribbon is double-faced it can be turned to make one or other of its colours most prominent. The colours of ribbon, leather and linen thread co-ordinated most serendipitously for this project and both Robert and I were delighted with the result.
Commissioned as a special gift for my client's PhD supervisor, this Journal gave me a chance to try out the recently released Teal colour of goatskin leather for the first time - it instantly became a firm favourite.
Bound in the Longstitch with Linkstitch style in Grey linen thread, this commission inspired a new 'Nordic' Miniature Journal colourway.
If these colours and materials have inspired you, get in touch to commission your own bespoke journal, sketchbook, wedding guest book or memory book. You can view all your bespoke options here. I look forward to hearing about your exciting ideas!
SusanComments will be approved before showing up.
This blog post suggests 10 Ways to Use a Mini Journal in your daily life for mindfulness and creativity. Its prompts draw on ideas from artists, poets, writers, business coaches and psychologists.
What do those professional bookbinding terms mean? Can I use any kind of glue? Where do I find waxed linen thread? Do I need special paper? Is that awl as good as the one I already have? I hear you. I was you.
