Time to discuss some of the inspiring bookbinding projects of November. As usual, the projects were chosen for the post are quite diverse, and include many things from fine and design binding to boxmaking. Some of them are quite accessible even for beginners.
It is well known that bookbinders make boxes for books. And there are many types of them dedicated for different occasions. But cardboard boxes, in general, were a prominent part of a bookbinder's trade as well.
The first time I learned about phase boxes, I was on a tour of The Leeds Library. It was conducted by their bookbinder, Brian Cole, who ventured up from the depths of the library basement to show us around.
Oh, wow! This is some lightning-fast bookbinder’s work!
I just would be glad to see the same process in a higher resolution…
We’ve decided to pick some of the posts published by different bloggers and institutions in January 2017 that may be of interest to you. You will find not only strictly bookbinding topics covered here, but also book arts, book history and book conservation.
Couple of weeks ago I have shared with you my experience with soft weights. I needed them during construction of false rounded spines for a box project. Today I would like to share my thoughts on making those false spines.
What I truly love about bookbinding (woodworking, other crafts) is that there is always a chance to experiment, find some new tricks, small hacks and create strange jigs. Currently I’m working on a couple of large boxes (for dolls) designed to resemble books. The project brought me a lot of fun, and I plan to share all of it in time =)
Box making is one of the skills a bookbinder should master. There are many types and styles of boxes: slipcase boxes and clamshell boxes for books; small boxes and boxes with many compartments and drawers for jewelry, gifts and small things; portfolios, trays and curved boxes for different needs. Every box has something special about how it is made. Boxes are also very important for archival and conservation projects.
Smithsonian Institution Archives has just published a Vine showing the use of special enclosure for a historic photograph. That’s the first video posted on their channel and I hope we’ll get many more interesting illustrations for the smart ideas used in that institution. To find the full story (and diagrams) of the photo and specially tailored portfolio, you can visit their official blog.
