Beyond the Computer

I was recently re-inspired to start doing some handcrafted work. Its been forever since I’ve actually created any type of design work for myself. Between putting long hours into my professional career and then freelance work, I never seem to find the time to mold some of the ideas I have floating around in my head into something physical. All thats about to change and I owe none other than a bunch of ambitious college seniors for my inspiration!

Last week, I had the great opportunity to participate in AIGA Philadelphia’s Annual Feedback event at Moore College of Art and Design as a reviewer. The event is setup as an opportunity for soon-to-be-graduating college seniors to have their design portfolio’s reviewed. Of all the work that I reviewed, I was most impressed and inspired by the many handmade books. Bingo, I thought. This is what I want to create. What a perfect way of combining words, design and my ever yearning for something handmade.

So I’ve been on a mission this past week and a half to learn all about hand bookbinding. I’ve gotten books, supplies, lots of cool paper and have been collecting ideas. Most importantly I have a rearranged space to have as my workstation.

I have a few ideas floating around for simple starter books and I’ll be posting the progress of my bookbinding adventures here, in the meantime, check out the craft for yourself.