Pale Writer

  Pun intended... I just couldn't help it.
  This journal started with the hand painted cover paper.   I used a durable heavy weight stock, and rolled it out onto my work table.  Layers of paint were applied in the chosen colors, and when dry, that was randomly printed with stamps and stencils.  
  This is my favorite method for producing unique looking cover papers, which are then cut and applied to book board.

    The spine on this particular book is made from heavy artist quality canvas that has been painted and distressed.  I like the way it reminds me of weathered wood.
    Next, the spine is attached to the book covers, and the signatures of pages are bound in place.
    After the binding, which in this case is exposed longstitch,  holes are drilled into the heavy covers for the centipede stitch embellishments.  I think of them as the guardians of whatever content the new owner chooses to add to the book.... I promise they won't bite.
 

Nature's Architects

  This month the theme for our ATCs was "Architecture."  My thoughts turned immediately to the architects of nature, and in particular, insects.   

  One side of my card shows the outside of the nest and it's architects, while the other side features the elaborate interior with it's rows and layers of little chambers.  

Although we would not want these nests in or near our own living spaces, I would hope that we honor and give space to them in their natural surroundings.  

  My "architecture" card was designed using Photoshop.