'The Blanket Book'

Elizabeth Caush who lives in Hampshire UK has just published her first book about the healing power of creativity and craft, specifically that of knitting. She recently came to give a talk to my group at the day services where I work. Elizabeth brought along her books, her story and her wonderful samples for the book. I thought her use of colour to be stunning, bold and vibrant, and the simplicity of the patterns which turn into modern throws, cushions and bed runners is amazing. So as you are aware I do get tempted by all sorts of new projects, but no way with knitting, since I grew up knitting my own school jumpers and my last attempt was being talked into making a shawl for my grandson, BUT yet again the ideas in the book are so simple yet the results so satisfying that I could get tempted.

Elizabeth is promoting her book at the moment, so if you have a group that you think would be interested in the Hampshire or specifically the Portsmouth area do contact her.

'Crop Exhibition'

‘Crop’: An Exhibition of Experimental Artists’ Books



Avenue Campus reception and gallery corridor

The University of Northampton 31 October—16 December 2011 Open daily 10am-4pm


Opening Event: Tuesday 1 November 5-8pm

This is the seventh annual exhibition of experimental altered artists’ books, curated by Dr. Emma Powell (de Montfort University) and Melanie Bush (The University of Northampton). Work by international book artists will be on display alongside students from both institutions. For more details see the ‘We Love Your Books’ web site.

I'm pleased to say that my 'crop' book is amongst one of the 50 books chosen from the online exhibition to go on show at the above venue. I am hoping that there will be a catalogue as I have no chance of going to see the exhibition this year.

'For Sale'

The house we stayed in near Windermere, in the Lake District, was for sale. The weather was rainy, with the wind literally howling round the house. An old for sale board had been knocked down and was in a broken state by the rubbish bin. Well ,just imagine my excitement. My husband just could not unerstand why I wanted  to find space for it in the car with the inflatable boat, bike frame etc...

After a good shower it is perfect for making book covers.

I decided to make some paste papers as part of the binding. Here is a link to a really helpful tutorial.

 

 Be aware that I only made half the amount of paste mentioned and still had enough to take into my day centre group for them to have a go. It really works best if you use your fingers and enjoy the tactile quality. You will need plenty of paper and space to spread it out.