Cortiça Box Book

Portuguese cortiça (cork Oak)

Cortiça material is one of the most famous product produced in Portugal.

It is estimated in wikipedia that Portugal produces approximately 50% of cork harvested annually worldwide. They are famous for being used for bottle stoppers, especially wine bottles.

Wikipedia information on cortiça:

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cork_%28material%29

 Nowadays, you can find hats, bags, shoes, etc made of this lovely material.

I had this crazy idea on creating a book using this material. Therefore, I worked my mind on deciding the design and there it is....and with its own bookmark!

This book is different from the rest of the books and journals because it is like a box with the book inside.

Besides, there is a ribbon for secure closure.

I have so enjoyed working on this new item.

New material

Everywhere I go, I try to get new material to work with.

You never know where you could find good and rare material for your work. Therefore, looking around and having a good eye is important when searching for the best quality!

Meanwhile, I have prepared couple of block books, so that ,once I have decided on the cover design, it will be easy to complete.

Each book takes time and patience but I have to say that it is a zen feeling that I get while creating.  And when I have a completed book in my hand, I feel so satisfied!

"Love what you do and do what you love!"

Created my First Treasury - Putting words into writing

Link:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c13ab96310f6d91c6bb798c/putting-words-into-writing

My bookbindery items have had been featured before in the treasuries of fellow nice curator of etsy.

Therefore, it is time for me to give to you my first Treasury, showing some amazing work of talented artist of the beautiful art of bookbinding.

Inspired by Jacaranda

Jacaranda is one of the most beautiful tropical trees from Brazil. During this time of the season, you see them everywhere in Lisbon.  The are all in blossom and the blue-purple flowers make the sky so beautiful and romantic.

With Jacaranda in mind, I made this cute journal using this lovely dotted pattern silk fabric.

Now all the books/journals have a matching bookmark tucked in the pocket for paper holder. You can use it in the same book or just place in your own reading book.

Enjoy the nature! Give credit to what you see around you because it is so beautiful and keeps one at ease.

Matching Bookmarks

This is a silk bookmark that I have made to match the bookbinding books.

I am happy with the simple design and actually because it is really useful having one inside the books!

Going to finish with the rest of the collection.

Ladylamb Treasury - Made in Portugal

Link:
http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c0fe3c678348eef11839a42/made-in-portugal

What a wonderful and meaningful surprise!

LadyLamb  has created this special treasury to celebrate Portugal Day  (10th June). She  is so sweet to have included my item "For Keeps" in her treasury!!! 

All the selected items are so gorgeous! Congratulations to all Portuguese artists!

Check out Ladylamb's beautiful blog. I love it and invite you to see....

http://www.ladylamb.wordpress.com/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LadyLamb

New fabrics for books

The dotted style of these two silk fabrics, gives it a playful and chic style.

Onces you experience the soft touch of these elegant silk fabrics,  you will not want to let it go. 

I am going to work with them in my next project!

If you are curious on how they will turn out ....come back soon!!

Orient Journal

My love for the Orient made me create this lovely journal.

A nice reason to write your memories.....

The inside black pocket for paper holder makes a beautiful contrast with the red paper.

Enjoy!

The beautiful art of bookbinding

 Lately, I have been pretty lucky in finding good and precious books.

From time to time, I go to the bookshops and look around. It is a good inspirational moment that I have for myself.

Just when I was almost living the place, I saw this book as if it was there waiting for me...been lucky you see...and this one is going to be in my treasure bookshelf.