June’s project in the Handmade Book Club was Spider Binding, a structure inspired by the book “The Art of the Fold” by Hedi Kyle and Ulla Warchol.
I consider this an “artist book,” which offers a great way to display artwork, writing, poetry, quotes, photographs, etc. I really enjoyed this project because, not only was it incredibly fun to make, but the structure itself is very interesting.
See What the Club Members Made
Lucy used a paper bag, embossed paper, and ink on her covers, with handmade paper signatures.
Gail’s cover was made with handmade paper, and she used pastel papers for her signatures. I love how Buffy went all-in on the spider theme!
Gilly’s gorgeous book was made with scrapbook papers, collage paper, rub-ons, acrylic paint, and acrylic ink. Cathie’s Spider Binding was made small enough to fit into an adorably decorated tin!
Tony created double-sided wet cyanotype on watercolor paper (gorgeous!) and seasonally eco-printed papers that she finished with a leather tie.
Julie incorporated plain & patterned cardstock for her covers and some sari ribbon. Laurel used marbled paper, bakers twine, and turquoise and red Canson Mi Teintes paper.
Leanne decided the Spider Binding would be a lovely way to preserve the memory of her Hunderwasser 2023 calendar, and I certainly agree!
Judy’s book was created from cardstock and filled with some of her eco prints. Her closure came through a slit in the fold rather than making a hole.
Gayle’s Spider Binding was created with stenciled and painted watercolor covers, drawing paper pages, and a sari ribbon closure. I’m quite smitten with Lu’s gorgeous marbled paper cover.
I may be a bit obsessed with Mary’s project. I adore the weaving on her covers!
What are the Club Members Saying?
Thank you for everything you put into exploring bookbinding. And thank you for offering up this innovative book design. More please! – Penny B.
Easy but not so easy! … Thank you Ali for another great set of directions, visually and vocally just what I need! You make it all come together with grace and ease (and a bit of self created stress..ha ha!) – Pamela P.
Will be making many more of these books using this enjoyable process. Thanks Ali! – Micha M.
Finished my spider binding. Perfect book to show off affirmation cards/tags I created for the 100 day project. Next time I would use heavier paper to accommodate all of the collage. Loved this project. – Jennifer C.
Made a sample June Spider Book – it is a fun one with a lot of possibilities! I am ready to make a couple more! – JoAnn C.
WHAT IS THE HANDMADE BOOK CLUB?
The Handmade Book Club grew out of my love for teaching and community. Having spent more than 10 years teaching in-person classes, I decided to reach a wider audience in 2019 and founded the online Handmade Book Club.
The Handmade Book Club is a community of bookmakers from around the world. Each month, I teach a new book binding project to the club members. In addition to making books, we love learning about ways to fill our handmade journals. That’s why we have guest artists and speakers join us every month! Club members also have access to a robust selection of past projects within the archives.
Whether you’re an experienced bookmaker or a complete novice, the Handmade Book Club is a community for you. You can try out a free book project here.
We’d love to have you join us! Sign up for the waitlist!
I own that book and love it!