Here is the big project I've been working on. I won't admit how long it took, but it took well over a week. Most of that time was me fussing with the paper and getting the folds just right. I love how it came out! I got the know how from
Sea Lemon on YouTube. She has some really great videos that are fun to watch.
 |
| All sewn up. |
I used upholstery thread in three colors to sew the signatures together. It was soothing and the needle was dull so I couldn't hurt myself. I think that was my favorite part, although after sewing for a while my fingers were sore.
I needed my husband to help me get it in the press (2 cutting boards with clamps) the first time. Paper can be slippery and I was afraid of popping my stitches.
 |
| Pretty ribbons! |
In my usual fashion I went a bit overboard with the project. I watched the videos so many times I knew exactly where to stop it for the part I needed. I just wanted it to turn out well and not be like any other Book out there.
 |
| I love this fabric! |
For the spine wrapping I chose a really pretty print. I wanted something better than an old sheet scrap to hold it together. My knowing that it's there makes me smile.
 |
| Super soft cover! |
The blue leather I used to cover it was what set off this whole project. I originally got it to make power bags 10 or so years ago. I made the bags I needed then put the rest away, I had forgotten I even had it.
Then I found it again when I was looking to re-cover my old Book. It's a 3-ring binder that I rarely use because it's hard to hold and bites me when I rearrange the pages. I wanted to breathe new life into it, or at least make peace with it. My poor husband said I should make a Book myself. That started the wheels turning and I was off!
 |
| The front paper is great! |
On our anniversary weekend he took me to get the ribbons, glue and the end paper so I could finish it. He also got me the little corner caps. He's so sweet!
 |
| A little wrinkled, but that's ok. |
I added a pen holder to both covers so it will always a pen when I need one. The back paper came out a bit wrinkled. I probably moved it getting it back in the press, but I think it adds character.
 |
| It opens well! |
The real test was opening and shuffling the pages. The Book worked like a charm and nothing fell out. It even opens nice and flat for easy writing and reading. I was a little worried it would be stiff; I went a bit crazy with the glue.
 |
| The perfect touch of bling. |
I love the little brass corner protectors. They are pretty and functional. I want to try and emboss a swirly pattern on the cover to really finish it off. I hope it works, if not it still looks great!
 |
| It's a big Book! |
I'm really proud of how it turned out, especially since this was my first time making a Book. It's around 500 leaves and is 11" x 8" x 3". It's the perfect size for recording a lot of info while still being manageable. I can comfortably hold it while standing if I want.
I am very happy with my Book and now I need to find my ruler so I can start using it!
