Can't Judge a Book by its Cover!

When I started the Altered Fabric Book workshop, I couldn't imagine how 15 sheets of paper folded in half (three five-page signatures) could possibly end up thick and juicy like the wondrous creations of Nellie Wortman! I've achieved bulk but I still have a long way to go! I've been prepping (60 surfaces!) and after a few rounds with a testy sewing machine, have managed to add stitching to quite a number of pages. Fortunately, the stitching isn't supposed to be straight, or even and the fabric is supposed to be gathered.



I've mostly conquered the machine - winding thread along a very specific maze of knobs, hooks and levers, keeping the bobbin loaded and functional, not getting carried away or breaking needles, so now comes the fun part - attaching the signatures to the spine. Bookmaking has always seemed, well, complicated so I have zero binding experience. Should be quite an adventure!

I had a fairly limited supply of fabrics and lace trims so I paid a visit to my pal Alicia, at Altered Bits. She's been studio cleaning lately and wowee, I found fabulous pieces to add to my collection. Honestly, I don't know how she manages to create such amazing art and acquire an eclectic variety of photos, collage sheets, frozen Charlottes, cool rusty stuff, curiosities, amazing trims and lace... but I certainly took advantage of her tidying streak.



I've already used several pieces of fabric from the amazing box of treasures that landed in my mailbox last week. The textile bundle I purchased is packed with exactly the variety of colors, textures and patterns that I needed to jazz up my pages. If you aren't already a fan, I heartily recommend a visit to her amazing site!



Early February is the ideal time for me to shop for delightful goodies... I am never one to wish time away but this winter has zapped my energy and I don't think I'm alone. I've visited several blog pals who also seem to be under the spell of the short, gray days and frigid temps. A friend of mine uses a light box and said she gets super energized after her daily session and I've heard rave reviews from a number of sources. Having a chronic illness that is hammered by the weather makes it very difficult to maintain my cheery, creative demeanor, so I'm looking for one to bask under while the sun is tucked away behind winter's mask. In the meantime, I'll continue to watch for reminders of spring...