Hmmm...edge painting

Edge painting. So hot right now, and apparently the most highly guarded secret in letterpress. Folks get a little mum about this one.

:: edge painted cards designed by Pickett's Press ::

Well, I'm determined to figure this one out. I haven't tried it yet but I think I have the basic premise and thought I'd share what I've managed to track down so far. These process pictures help.

:: EM letterpress ::

:: from Boxcar Press's Flickr ::

I think the first thing I'll try is a stiff brush and some oil-based ink (fast drying and there's also the benefit being able to easily match the color you used to print). I know some people out there are using an airbrush, but I'm not willing to make that kind of investment just yet, and there' also the possibility of using water-based dyes or inks, or even a stamp.

Hmmm... I'll get back to you on this one. Hope this helps, if like me, you're searching away on the internets for a tip, a lead...anything! Good luck and godspeed, fellow edge painters. I'll let you know how it works out.

Books & Cups

:: natural linen and shells ::

A sampling of the new books in the Etsy shop. I've been really enjoying these simple, classic, one-of-a-kind hardcover journals. Each one has the personalized touch of a vintage illustration. As always, acid-free, recycled, and made to last with the greatest care.

:: blue robin ::

:: yellow dandelion ::

:: mushroom field guide journal ::

And while you're there, take a look at MarkWarrenStudio's beautiful slipcast faceted cups.

I know I want one!

Michigan was very nice.

We went rowing on the lake.

And walked on the shore of the other lake, the very big lake.

and there were interesting mushrooms.

and friendly chickens

chipmunks too!

Then it was time to go home. But thanks for the good time, Michigan. I like you.

And...Journal #4

The fourth and final custom journal in the series. Birds, bunnies, deer and other things.

:: front cover ::

:: the inside back cover, with a pocket that will hold a card ::

:: desert critters ::

:: deer ::

:: collage of thread, an old photograph, and handmade paper ::

Journal # 2

The second journal. This one's theme was carnivals and the ocean.

:: the cover, with an original photograph ::

:: underwater exploration and handmade paper ::

:: this print reminded me of little anchors ::

:: jacques cousteau ::

To see more books like this one, please visit my website

Journal # 3

The third custom journal. For a musician who likes cars, the Adirondacks and Vermont, had a beloved retriever, and enjoys the finer things in life.

:: cover, with racecar ::

:: retriever ::

:: vermont! ::

:: wining and dining ::

:: sheet music ::

To see more books like this one, please visit my website

By the way, I'll be away for a week on vacation in Michigan. When I get back, I have over a dozen new books I've made, so I'll be sure to share some of those with you.

On a sadder note, I just learned Dennis Hopper died. I hope he's up there, fishing with john, drinking a pabst blue ribbon, and generally raising hell. He will be missed.

Journal # 1

So for the last week or so, I've been working on four different custom journals for my friend, Catherine. Each one is going to be a gift for someone on graduation day. Catherine sent me a list of each person's likes and interests so that the journal could be tailor-made to their aesthetic. This one was for someone who liked the prairie, the midwest, beige and red, and the woods.

:: cover ::

:: vintage sewing pattern ::

:: old book page and printed ephemera ::

:: turn over this page and there's a surprise ::

:: a pocket in the back with small notebook ::

Each book is made with one of a kind inclusions. For example, the pocket above was part of a handprinted banner I received as a gift. I regularly scout for old picture books at the thrift store to add to my collection of paper bits.

If you would like to commission a journal like this, please contact me for more information.

Stay tuned for Journal # 2...