For your class project, you will create your own miniature sketchbook, choosing your favourite bookbinding approach and cover materials to create your tiny treasure.

WHAT WE'LL DO:

First we'll explore our options, including charming accessories and book cover designs
Then we’ll practice folding techniques to create a fun-sized accordion or concertina-style book
Next we’ll learn how to create a tiny perfect-bound book using PVA/craft glue
Lastly we’ll experiment with sewing, creating a petite simple-stitched book and a baby Coptic-bound book

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

Paper - any paper, even scraps is fine! Pick the paper that suits what you want to create - a scrapbook, a sketchbook, a junk journal
Something to cut the paper with - scissors / a craft knife / a guillotine
Glue stick - for making covers
PVA or craft glue - for perfect bound books
Scrap paper - if using glue
Thread or twine- if using thread this can be normal sewing thread, embroidery thread, or even bookbinding thread (for simple-stitched and Coptic-bound books)
Something to make holes in your paper - a needle / a craft knife / a piercing awl (for simple-stitched and Coptic-bound books)
Decorative paper or card - this is optional but I highly recommend using something to cover your book to infuse it with your personality. You can make, find or buy this.
Lining paper - this is also optional but can add the perfect finishing touch to the inside cover page - I suggest coloured or white paper.
Thin ribbon - for bookmarks
Optional - something to help you fold - a bone folder / plastic ruler / rolling pin / wine bottle…
Optional - stamps, stickers, washi tape - anything to decorate your book covers that you like!

RESOURCES:

To see more examples of tiny books, have a look at this Pinterest board full of delightful miniature sketchbooks, scrapbooks, journals and illustrated books.

In this class, I use Nepalese Decorative Paper and Chiyogami papers from Shepherds (I’m not an affiliate, I just really love their papers).

Here are some links to the artists I mentioned in the ‘Taking It Further’ lesson: Cécile Metzger and Marie-Noëlle Wurm

USEFUL LINKS:

Follow-on classes:

To create your own abstract covers, why not try my classes on Mindful Watercolour painting or Tapping into Creativity

MY LINKS

You can see more of my work on my website, or find me on Pinterest and Instagram, and tag me @shelleyskail to show off your creations!

Charlene Willems

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