... homemade journal ...

June 7, 2011

I decided to paint the edges.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5725.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5724.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5727.jpg

I chose green flyleaves

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5730.jpg

I wonder what I can use next to seal these painted edges?

the corresponding Plaka varnish?

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5731.jpg

This journal will be without any band closure.

It also has sharp square corners instead of rounded corners.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5728.jpg

June 9, 2011

completed ....

This is Journal #146 "Brownies" A5 size...

Front and back

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5738.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5741.jpg

I decided on using natural coloured stitchcords

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5751.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5744.jpg

Fullspread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5747.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5749.jpg

and green flyleaves

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5748.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5763.jpg

I chose a maroon ribbon pagemarker to match that hue on the covers.

I decided to use the side of the box carton and incorporate it as a bookmark.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5708.jpg

It was too long - same height as the journal.

Yet I didnt want to cut it short.

So I decided to fold down the Kodiak Bear logo.

I scored a line to ease the fold

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5732.jpg

Then I pierced a hole to thread the ribbon.

The ribbon and everything was glued down thoroughly

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5734.jpg

Ribbon plus bookmark incorporated

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5753.jpg

Closeup

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5736.jpg

and the foldover behind

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5737.jpg

Writing paper is "CaneFields" sugarcane bagasse paper at 80gsm, white

Its impressively inkfriendly as seen on this inktestpage

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5756.jpg

.. and the Colophon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20146%20Brownies/DSCF5758.jpg

Oh ... This one doesn't have any elastic band closure.

And it's corners are not rounded like I usually do.

Edited June 9, 2011 by TMLee

June 11, 2011

This is Journal #145 "Guitars"

I chanced upon this design bearing a pattern made up of guitars.

I happen to also come to discover a friend who has serious intentions to handbuild guitars for a living....

so this one goes to him ....

The front side had this pattern of guitars ...

a collection of guitars forming a montage ....

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5570.jpg

closeup ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5571.jpg

the 'wrong side' has this motif of cassette tapes .... (brings back memories .... )

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5572.jpg

so I decided to create a spine relief , as I have done on many occasions now.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5573.jpg

The covers finished ...

it looks more interesting ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5578.jpg

Its flushed on the same level ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5579.jpg

Front with and without band...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5634.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5641.jpg

The stitches matched the hues on the covers...

and the aqua turquoise colours also matched the hues of some of the guitars ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5639.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5644.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20145%20Guitars/DSCF5642.jpg

Paper is NACHI , Light Grey , 124gsm

Total 112 writing pages

Edited June 11, 2011 by TMLee

June 12, 2011

This is the 3rd color of the very little BUCKRAM I have.

Its a bright chilli red.

This journal is different from my usual offering.

I decided to try crafting a journal with a 'soft' cover. ie a cover that can flex a little.

Stiff but not hard.

Soft but not floppy.

Something perhaps that can take the bending in a back trouser pocket.

I decided to glue the very hardwearing buckram material onto very thin greyboards.

Its the kind of soft floppy greyboards you find commonly at the back of foolscap writing pads.

Here is the buckram (of earlier colors) glued onto these thin greyboards.

I reckon it is only about 0.5mm thin.

Pictured here with the usual 1.5mm thick greyboards in my A6 size journal covers.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5792.jpg

This is the journal completed showing the bendy cover...

I am quite delighted with the outcome.

The soft cover was stiffened a little bit by the flyleaves, 154gsm.

Together they resulted in a cover thats neither too stiff nor too floppy.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5787.jpg

Next , to enable bending, the writing paper had to be considered too.

So I decided to use thin paper.

Since this is a tryout, I used sugarcane bagasse paper that is only 80gsm.

Future of such slimline journals I shall call them, will include Japanese paper such as KOKUYO and / or MARUMAN , and /or CAMPUS. These are all very high quality Japanese writing paper.

Coated and very smooth. (some hate it for their super smoothness)

I like them for their inkfriendliness.

The end result of using thin paper is like so ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5785.jpg

To give a better idea, compared to my previous Buckram Journal in Lime green and for scale reference , pictured with an iPhone4 with a silicon sleeve...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5795.jpg

It is as slim as the iPhone4

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5793.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5794.jpg

To achieve this thinness, the next element - the stitchcords also had to be considered.

I used linen thread (unwaxed) , bare and uncoloured.

This one is #20 gauge and 3-ply.

The reason for selecting a thinner stitchcord is so that when the book needs to be clamped, it will not contribute to the 'wedge' effect - something which is characteristic in all my journals , due to the intent of using thick cords to express the stitch patterns.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5769.jpg

The stitch patterns are not so readily noticeable due to the thin sized cords and also becos they are white , and are harder to see.

I am happy with the outcome.

I may end up using such slimline journals myself.

It is as slim as a moleskine too.

They take up a lot less space in my carryall pouch.

Journal #144 BUCKRAM - Red

Front

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5764.jpg

Fullspread

I chose a plain solid green flyleaf

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5776.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5777.jpg

The stitchcords are finer in size

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5770.jpg

The usual namecard slot

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5781.jpg

The texture of buckram.

Its hardwearing.

No problems getting wet too !

It looks like canvas for painting.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5774.jpg

Writing paper is "CANE FIELDS" sugarcane bagasse white, 80gsm

It is thin and very impressive as it takes ink very well ...

The paper is thin, so on the reverse side, you will see the shadow of the writing on the other side, depending on how dark the ink you use.

This I call shadow.

It is not bleedthru.

My usual inktestpage and Colophon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5780.jpg

Total writing pages is 112 pages, as usual.

The Colophon in all my journals are always written with a SAILOR Custom 742 <FA> nib filled with SAILOR Red Brown.

This combo gives a very good indicator of how good the paper can take ink.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20HOW-TO/Journal%20144%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Red/DSCF5782.jpg

And the journal is very light too.

Its only about 115g. (Compared to my usual journals that are consistently around 200g)

This means $saving on shipping

This one's for sale .... (I haven't gotten used to the new classifieds )

Anyone want to be the first to tryout this slimline journal ?

USD$30 shipped to your doorstep in USA via airmail registered.

Other places , pls enquire.

Forgot to mention,

there is NO elastic band closure for this journal becos the covers are not stiff enough to keep the band in place.

Edited June 12, 2011 by TMLee

June 13, 2011

Journal #144 "BUCKRAM - Red" above is SOLD.

Thanks for looking.

July 5, 2011

This is Journal #143B BUCKRAM - Lime Green.

Another experiment with my new addition of SLIMLINE Journals. As thin as an iPhone4 with silicon sleeve.

This here is my favourite Lime Green BUCKRAM material covering the covers.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5970.jpg

Front

Pictured with an M100N

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5967.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5968.jpg

Fullspread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5971.jpg

The stitches are unwaxed linen thread , white.

#20 gauge , 3-ply

VERY strong

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5978.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5977.jpg

Red flyleaves

usual namecard slot and anti drop-out flap

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5973.jpg

The covers on this one is 0.5mm greycards.

The earlier slimline prototype had a thinner greycard which resulted in a softer cover.

This one is slightly stiffer.

I haven't decided which way to go yet.

still experimenting.

Also - NO elastic band closure.

I haven't resolved this yet.

Colophon

PILOT Custom 742 <FA> nib. Sailor Red Brown ink.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5974.jpg

Inktestpage

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20143%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/Journal%20143B%20BUCKRAM%20-%20Lime%20Green/DSCF5976.jpg

Writing paper

Amazing paper as is expected of Japanese paper by

KOKUYO Campus Loose-Leaf A4 size paper.

30 hole, Unlined. S827W,

77gsm only.

112 writing pages total.

Paper is smooth as you would probably know.

Becos of the 30 holes that needed to be cut away, the journal is now slightly less (narrower) than A6 size.

By about 5mm.

No bleedthru , no feathering.

Only slight shadow bcos of the thinness of paper against dark ink.

Anyone want to try out this journal?

For Sale

USD$30 shipped to USA (registered airmail)

Other slimline journals on my workbench will next see bookcloth covers,

and higher grade Japanese paper ...

Feel free to email me ....

July 7, 2011

Still experimenting with my new line of SLIMLINE journals ...

This is interesting ...

Aspects explored in this journal ...

- thin greycard cover

- bookcloth on thin cover

- lightweight paper but stitched with thin cords - in this case ultra-thin dental floss !!!

- stitchcords not expressed as a feature

This is the latest fresh stock of bookcloth that i just received.

Its Jet Black , matte finish. And very elegant. :clap1:

Its backing tissue is slightly thinner than the GEMATEX range (very sturdy) .

This means that this backcloth is a thinner material overall , compared to say BUCKRAM which is quite thick , almost like tarpaulin.

A thinner cover material means that it will contribute LESS to the overall rigidity of the completed covers.

In comparing this black bookcloth cover against the Buckram covers, I noticed the Buckram ones are overall more rigid. ie less 'bendy'.

Pictured with a PARKER Duofold Centennial Orange

the texture ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5962.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5961.jpg

The dimensions are just a wee bit different from the usual A6 size.

Its narrower by 5mm.

A mock up of what the completed journal will look like .

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5964.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5965.jpg

I used sugarcane bagasse paper , 80g

and dental floss - waxed ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5979.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5993.jpg

The dental floss is so thin (but strong) that there is no 'body' to the stitch cords.

Its a bit of a contradiction, using this type of exposed stitching when the method is meant to express the beauty of the stitch patterns.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5995.jpg

Its so thin that it disappears as it goes round the edge of the cover

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5997.jpg

This journal is a prototype, so I have left the spine unglued ...

Here, I am happy with the end results , bcos you can see that the tensioning of the stitching is just right.

Not too tight and not too loose. Just with that little 'give' .

I had to remember to pierce smaller holes for the stitch stations otherwise too big a hole, and the thread will have too much freeplay.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF5998.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6001.jpg

This journal is thinner than the earlier BUCKRAM ones featured above.

Compared next to an iPhone4 with a slilcon bumper sleeve.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6003.jpg

Here you see the spine flaring a little bit.

I can imagine, If I were to clamp and glue the spine, the journal will compress to become even thinner !

And perhaps thinner than the iPhone4.

Once again you see how thin the dental floss is - resulting in it disappearing into the spine - almost flushed with it.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6005.jpg

The overall result of the journal is that it is completely clean and neat on all sides and on all edges. Even the stitches barely bulge where they are.

I wonder how the dental floss will hold up , over prolonged use?

Writing pages as per normal 112 pages total , in 7 signatures and 4 folios each.

Sugarcane bagasse paper at only 80gsm. Thin but inkfriendly.

Aspects being considered in future designs ...

- the inclusion of an elastic band closure. Cover not stiff enough to hold the elastic band.

- linen stitchcords with lightweight paper.

- softcover but with all 4 corners rounded ! Less chance of snagging when stowing away.

- textile fabric with soft covers?

Edited July 7, 2011 by TMLee

July 14, 2011

This is Journal #120 GEMATEX - Sap Green A5 size

The first in this colour

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5935.jpg

I decided on a bright orange linen stitchcord

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5940.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5941.jpg

The Pelikan M100N is puny ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5942.jpg

Full spread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5949.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5951.jpg

Matching flyleaves

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5944.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5943.jpg

Inktestpage

Paper is ZETA Wove , Natural White, 150gsm

Thick and heavy

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5945.jpg

Colophon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5946.jpg

Bookcloth is nice to the touch

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20120%20GEMATEX%20-%20Sap%20Green/DSCF5952.jpg

July 18, 2011

The cutouts are too thick.....So I decided to use a thinner card ...Remembering I had this printout many months ago, I decided to retrieve it since I have begun doing some embossing ....A printed image of "autobots" on a magazine cover..http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4527.jpgCut it out ...http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4528.jpgPlacement onto a rear coverboardhttp://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4529.jpgGluing it back into exact position ...http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4530.jpgReady to receive the bookcloth coverhttp://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4532.jpgThe cutouts were glued thinly.Only the cutout was glued, the rest of the coverboard was left unglued for now.The idea is to permit as much stretch as may be neededThe back of the bookcloth was also made wet and pliable with a brush.Glued on and went over the edges with a bonefolderI should have used something to protect the bookcloth surface ... now its a little marred..http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4534.jpg Decided to press hard to make the bookcloth reach the creviceshttp://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4535.jpgAfter about half and hour http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4539.jpghttp://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4538.jpgIt works better with thinner cards .... magazine covers that are not too thick but still stiff ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF4555.jpg

This is Journal #118E GEMATEX Ochre - Autobots embossed finally completed.

A6 size.

Front

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6193.jpg

Front with band deployed

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6201.jpg

Rear

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6194.jpg

Fullspread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6198.jpg

I chose a green theme for the flyleaves and etc

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6207.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6208.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6206.jpg

Green flyleaves and namecard slot

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6202.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6200.jpg

The inktestpage

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6205.jpg

The Colophon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6203.jpg

Some closeups

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6197.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118E%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20autobots%20Emboss/DSCF6195.jpg

Writing paper is :

NACHI Light Grey , smooth , 124gsm

7 Signatures, 4 folios each.

Total 112 writing pages

July 19, 2011

I decided to use a white EFALIN paper 120gsm to do the coversheets.

The 'wrong' side of the paper was brushed with a clean wet brush to dampen it and make it more pliable so it can hug the embossed cutouts better.
The second advantage of wetting the paper is that it will dilute the glue which has been just laid onto the greyboard cover.
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF4641.jpg

The paper was then briskly pressed into the crevices but somehow I haven't found the right technique yet that is fast enough.
Still took me about 20mins ? becos I was trying hard to reach into the corners first whilst everything was still damp and 'movable'.
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF4643.jpg

Another view to better illustrate the relief achievable...
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF4645.jpg

The morning after...
when the glue has dried (95%)
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF4646.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF4649.jpg

Closeup
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF4647.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF4650.jpg

This combination is interesting for the many possibilities it presents.
Just let your imagination fly ...

The advantage of using paper instead of bookcloth is that only a single layer needs to be worked on.
(bookcloth consists of 2 layers as mentioned earlier)
But of course, bookcloth significantly is nicer to the touch and definitely more durable to everyday use.
The EFALIN paper cover can last as long as the book is being used.
The other interesting thing about EFALIN paper is that even after being wet , the paper doesn't disintegrate nor its fibres start to appear, even from the 'correct' side !

I regret not buying white coloured bookcloth !
I now have found good use for it ...

This is Journal #134 Chinese Seal Emboss - White - ZeMing

finally completed.

The concept is to craft a white on white journal.

The writing paper is white and so is the cover.

Front

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6179.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6181.jpg

Front with band deployed.

I didn't want to block the emboss, so I positioned the band in such a manner to avoid it.

Its slanted to one side at a 45deg angle.

Its good enough to keep the small book closed.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6182.jpg

Rear

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6183.jpg

White stitches

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6187.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6188.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6191.jpg

Fullspread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6190.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6192.jpg

White flyleaves

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6189.jpg

Inktestpage

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6186.jpg

Colophon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20134%20Chinese%20seal%20Emboss%20-%20White%20zeming/DSCF6184.jpg

Writing paper is :

NATURALIS Soft White , Smooth, 120gsm

7 Signatures, 4 Folios each, 112 writing pages total.

July 21, 2011

This is Journal #148 Basic Black - Chevron

A6 size

Pictured with a DDV Standard (black and orange is stunning )

Fabric covers

Front

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6219.jpg

Front with band deployed

What I like is that the grey on the elastic band matches the grey chevron on the fabric cover.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6229.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6226.jpg

The visually contrasting orange linen thread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6225.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6224.jpg

Black flyleaves and black ribbon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6233.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6235.jpg

Inktestpage

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6240.jpg

Colophon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20148%20Basic%20Black%20-%20Chevron/DSCF6237.jpg

Writing paper is :

MELLOTEX Natural White , Smooth , 100gsm

112 writing pages

Up for sale in Classifieds ...

Edited July 21, 2011 by TMLee

July 25, 2011

This is Journal #147A Jet Black Bookcloth

True A6 size.

Still experimenting with SLIMLINE journals...

Trying out the following design features :

1) thin 'bendy' covers but with elastic band;

2) lightweight paper , here it is 80gsm sugarcane bagasse paper ;

3) but waxed linen thread #18gauge

4) more importantly, four corners of the journal rounded

Front

Pictured with the SAILOR 1911Large Summer Yellow

The 4 corners are rounded

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6242_1.jpg

Front with band deployed

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6242_1.jpg

Full spread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6253_1.jpg

I wanted contrasting stitches

Here it is #18 gauge 4-ply waxed linen thread, Bright Autumn colour

I find this a bit too thick for a slimline journal. It adds to the thickness of the journal. Also it cannot be 'flattened', unlike the flat profile stitches i usually use.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6259_1.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6258_1.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6254_1.jpg

The covers are semi-hard , sort of 'bendy' ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6260_1.jpg

Black Flyleaves and ribbon to match.

Namecard slot as usual.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6247.jpg

The inktestpage

done with a PARKER Duofold Centennial Special Edition Orange <#98> nib and filled with Pelikan Brilliant Brown ink.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6248.jpg

The Colophon

written with a PILOT Custom 743 <FA> nib filled with SAILOR Red Brown ink...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2011/2011%20JOURNALS/Journal%20147%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/Journal%20147A%20Jet%20Black%20Bookcloth/DSCF6251.jpg

Paper is CANEFIELDS Sugarcane bagasse paper , white , 80gsm

7 signatures, 4 folios each

112 writing pages total

I like the yellow stitches but its a bit too thick. Doesn't help to keep the journal slimline ...

The 'all corners rounded' feature is a tryout. to see if it helps reduce snagging when stuffed into tight places.

Edited July 26, 2011 by TMLee

July 27, 2011

I DID IT!!! hoooorray! :clap1: :clap1:

You inspired me to take the plunge. I found and started reading this thread on Saturday, went out and got all the things I needed on Sunday. My first one finished gluing this morning.

I chose not to do full flyleaves because I didn't like the other half of the print. There is no rear pocket or elastic band. It was more a test to see if I could get the stitching worked out. I have two more notebooks started out which I am planing on doing full flyleaves and might attempt a rear pocket, ribbon page marker, and elastic band. The dimensions are 6" by 9" (15.5cm by 23cm). The paper is Strathmore 400 series drawing paper 80 lb. (130 gsm). A nice off white color, smooth, and vary fp friendly. 7 signatures with 4 folios in each.

I was wondering if you attach your elastic bands by just gluing them with PVA glue and sandwiching them between the cover board and the flyleaves or if there is another step. Do you have any tricks to clamping the finished book without the thread on the inside of the covers putting an imprint in papers? For the ribbon page marker do you just loop it through two holes and then tie it on the inside?

For you embossing projects you could try using a lump of clay as a beater / hammer. Cover your book cover with clear plastic wrap or a zip-lock bag while the glue for the bookcloth is still wet. Then take a lump of clay and use it to pound on the cover. The clay will form around the embossing on each subsequent hit pushing the bookcloth into all the corners. I have not tried this but it may be a good solution if it works out because of the speed it would allow you to work at.

Thanks,

Nick

Edited July 27, 2011 by mcg1355

July 28, 2011

I DID IT!!! hoooorray! :clap1: :clap1:
You inspired me to take the plunge. I found and started reading this thread on Saturday, went out and got all the things I needed on Sunday. My first one finished gluing this morning.

I chose not to do full flyleaves because I didn't like the other half of the print. There is no rear pocket or elastic band. It was more a test to see if I could get the stitching worked out. I have two more notebooks started out which I am planing on doing full flyleaves and might attempt a rear pocket, ribbon page marker, and elastic band. The dimensions are 6" by 9" (15.5cm by 23cm). The paper is Strathmore 400 series drawing paper 80 lb. (130 gsm). A nice off white color, smooth, and vary fp friendly. 7 signatures with 4 folios in each.

I was wondering if you attach your elastic bands by just gluing them with PVA glue and sandwiching them between the cover board and the flyleaves or if there is another step. Do you have any tricks to clamping the finished book without the thread on the inside of the covers putting an imprint in papers? For the ribbon page marker do you just loop it through two holes and then tie it on the inside?

For you embossing projects you could try using a lump of clay as a beater / hammer. Cover your book cover with clear plastic wrap or a zip-lock bag while the glue for the bookcloth is still wet. Then take a lump of clay and use it to pound on the cover. The clay will form around the embossing on each subsequent hit pushing the bookcloth into all the corners. I have not tried this but it may be a good solution if it works out because of the speed it would allow you to work at.

Thanks,
Nick

Awesome !

It looks expertly made for a first try?

The elastic band is glued onto the rear cover and allowed to dry thoroughly before the flyleaves are glued to cover the band ends.

The ribbon is pulled thru one hole, then the other then knotted in it's tail end to create a bulge too big to pass thru the hole it just came in.

Clamping ...

Good point. I have never bothered about imprints, maybe I should.

A simple solution is to place something between , then clamp.

My method I would imagine, is to NOT clamp too tightly or too prolonged.

Aout the clay material, hmmmm ... Not sure if it's workable. Thanks though

What's the cover material?

Bookcloth ?

Have fun :clap1:

Edited July 28, 2011 by TMLee

July 29, 2011

Awesome ! It looks expertly made for a first try?The elastic band is glued onto the rear cover and allowed to dry thoroughly before the flyleaves are glued to cover the band ends.The ribbon is pulled thru one hole, then the other then knotted in it's tail end to create a bulge too big to pass thru the hole it just came in.Clamping ...Good point. I have never bothered about imprints, maybe I should.A simple solution is to place something between , then clamp.My method I would imagine, is to NOT clamp too tightly or too prolonged.Aout the clay material, hmmmm ... Not sure if it's workable. Thanks though What's the cover material? Bookcloth ?Have fun :clap1:

Thank you that means a lot coming form you saying my journal looks expertly made considering the high quality of your work. :embarrassed_smile: Yes this was my first try but, I am lucky enough to live in a city where I could find everything I needed except for the waxed linen thread. Having the right materials helped greatly. Other than the materials I learned everything from this thread except I googled the double needle coptic stitch. Oh yeah and the cover is bookcloth.

I just tried putting some card-stock folded in half in between the cover and the other half of the flyleaves and pushed it all the way up to the inside of the fold. There was no imprint left by the stitching for the cover this time!! Good tip

Here are the results.

Cover is black bookcloth. Paper is Strathmore 400 series drawing paper. Stitching is embroidery thread waxed by hand. Dimensions are 6" by 9" (15.5cm by 23cm).

Tomorrow I am going to search for some ribbon for page markers and see if I can't add that to my two journals. I'm fairly sure I will still be able to add it after the spine has been glued... fingers crossed.

-Nick

July 29, 2011

You are fortunate to be living where you can get materials .

It can make a lot of difference.

You may want to start looking for better threads.

The Knitting threads you are using are stretchable, if ever so slightly.

From the photo of your orange stitch journal, it seems the signatures are quite loose from each other. I believe its due to the threads, not so much your workmanship.

This is where gluing the spine becomes a solution. It reduces the 'wobble' that is common to this kind of stitching.

Makes each signature stay attached to the adjacent ones.

The knitting threads are also compressible , especially when pulled taut.

This may explain why the form and pattern of the blue stitches in your picture are not immediately noticeable.

They sort of disappear into each other.

The beauty of such exposed spine bindings is the pattern of the stitching itself. All other elements are secondary. So you may wish to enhance this aspect.

I ordered my linen threads from California San Francisco. If I rmbr , its called the Cane Shop.

Expensive plus shipping , its costly for me. So I can't experiment with different gauges of linen thread. But you can !

As an example, (in my recent postings) I am experimenting with my new series of slimline journals, where the threads are a major factor.

I still prefer linen stitches. They are strong and need to be able to last the lifespan of the book.

I wish there was a shop I can go to and just find the threads I am guessing will work perfectly.

You may want to re-examine how you fold your paper too.

It seems like the folios were not folded crisply one by one.

Were they folded like two or more at one go?

The hardest part of stitching I find, is the tensioning when pulling the threads.

When pulled too tight, the spine will concave. I notice a little bit in the blue stitch journal.

If too loosely pulled, the 'wobble' becomes noticeable.

Tensioning also differs between different kinds of threads.

I cant tell from the shadows in the pics, but do your covers have a slight overhang?

All in all, your journals so far are turning out fine.

Just dont stop.

The bookcloth - is it black ? Or blue?

Edited July 29, 2011 by TMLee

August 1, 2011

Yes I really do need new stitching thread. I noticed the stretch occurred in the orange stitched journal so I compensated by stitching the blue stitched one to tight. Now that I have been playing with it for a few days the blue stitched one has stretched and the curve you pointed out in the spine is now gone but the threads are still tight. Hopefully it stays that way. I also did a better job gluing the spine on the blue stitched journal so perhaps that is helping keep my thread from stretching.

I checked out the place that you recommended for waxed linen thread and man do they have a lot of color choices! The place I was looking online didn't even have half that selection. Just placed my order today. Thanks

As for the paper folding I used a bone folder on each page one at a time. For the first journal I folded them really tight but had trouble getting all the folios to nest together into a signature. There were gaps forming between the folios at the fold. So I did a little lighter folds on the second journal causing the small gaps you pointed out in the finished product. Turns our the first journal looks better, I guess the gaps in the crisply folded signatures were taken care of in stitching.

There is no overhang on the top or bottom of both journals and a small overhang on the right side to make opening the journal easier.

The journal with the blue stitching has a black cover.

So far I am really happy with them. I have more to learn which is motivating to keep trying. I am going to keep making them until they are perfect, so I'm guessing I'll never stop . Although, my pace will decrease as I go back to college (university) in a couple of weeks but I plan on continuing while there.

-Nick

August 3, 2011

As for the paper folding I used a bone folder on each page one at a time. For the first journal I folded them really tight but had trouble getting all the folios to nest together into a signature. There were gaps forming between the folios at the fold. So I did a little lighter folds on the second journal causing the small gaps you pointed out in the finished product. Turns our the first journal looks better, I guess the gaps in the crisply folded signatures were taken care of in stitching.

Hmmm ...

I am not sure I understand you ... :-)

Your paper is 120gsm ?

That should fold quite easily and crisply.

Unless it's alot heavier?

Why can't each folio 'hug' the previous one?

Your coming new threads Shld give you a lot of delight .... And a lot more aesthetic combinations ...

August 5, 2011

Another attempt at something different...

Now that I have nice bookcloth, I decided to try out some debossing - the opposite of embossing.

Drew a monogram on a thin greyboard
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3417.jpg http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3418.jpg

The monogram was drawn in such a manner that it could be cut out.
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3422.jpg http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3423.jpg

Then glued onto the usual greyboard cover
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3425.jpg

Then the bookcloth was glued on
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3430.jpg http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3426.jpg

Had to use the bonefolder to slowly press down the recesses to make the edges crisp

The cover completed
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3433.jpg http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3436.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF3435.jpg

Journal #118A GEMATEX Ochre - "SY" Deboss ....

FINALLY COMPLETED ....

Front

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6340.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6343.jpg

The band closure is modified in order to not get in the way of the deboss

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6344.jpg

I chose a blue theme for the flyleaves and stitches

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6345.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6347.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6348.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6353.jpg

Full spread

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6352.jpg

The inktestpage and Colophon

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6354.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/2010%20JOURNALS/GEMATEX%20SERIES/Journal%20118%20GEMATEX%20-%20Ochre/Journal%20118A%20GEMATEX%20Ochre%20-%20SY%20Deboss/DSCF6355.jpg

112 writing pages

Paper is NACHI , Light Grey , 124gsm

August 8, 2011

Took out some leftover leathers from storage and decided to experiment again ...

A very soft leather.

Dark chocolate in colour.

The wrong side is a dark grey colour , also very soft and suede like.

Very nice to the touch.

Since the dark chocolate was a trifle 'monotonous' , i decided to perhaps create some accent.

I decided to cut a portion at the bottom and reverse the side of the leather like so ...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/Journal%2075%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/Journal%2075A%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/DSCF6304_1.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/Journal%2075%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/Journal%2075A%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/DSCF6305_1.jpg

The completed covers ..

The grey 'wrong' side of the leather is VERY VERY smooth and velvety to the touch.

Its actually quite fun to run your fingers across it. :clap1:

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/Journal%2075%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/Journal%2075A%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/DSCF6311_1.jpg

The leathers are perfectly flush with each other.

Butt jointed.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/Journal%2075%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/Journal%2075A%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/DSCF6315_1.jpg

Next,

the inside was filled up with another layer of cardboard of the same thickness as the leather.

Here both leather and cardboard are exactly 0,5mm thin.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/Journal%2075%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/Journal%2075A%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/DSCF6313_1.jpg

Impatience is a bad thing when crafting - anything. :bonk:

I should have skived down the leather at the corners but didn't , thinking that clamping would be sufficient to flatten the leather at the corners.

Well, not exactly true.

Now there is a slight bump.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u236/TMLee/Journal%2075%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/Journal%2075A%20Chocolate%20Lambskin/DSCF6314_1.jpg

I have to think about what flyleaves now.

Possibly orange. :hmm1:

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