Book binding and graduations

I've been taking a class in book binding for the last few weeks.  We've learned how to make a few different types of hand made books:  pamphlet, accordion, signature, and piano hinged.  Not the most practical of classes, but very creative and a lot of fun.  I'm planning on making some unique books incorporating my calligraphy and painting skills - plus a little cut and paste techniques :)

Yesterday I also attended the 8th grade graduation of the lovely daughter of a friend of mine.  After last year's Graduationpalooza with my boys, it was nice to just be a spectator.  Tomorrow night I'm going to a wedding.  It must be June!

Book cloth, made from cotton fabric and backed with kozo paper,

drying in the sun.

Hand sewing the text block.

Dick Pio - master bookbinder, showing us how it's done.

My books:

Signature, pamphlet and accordion (with insertions).

The signature has handmade book cloth;

the other two have hand-stamped and decorated

cover paper.

Ms Graduate - yes, we're looking at you!

Graduate's grandma, sister, and friend's baby;

entertainment for everybody!