Making your own sketchbook is very straightforward, simple and enjoyable. It puts you in control of the size, shape, format and paper and you probably save money too. I have come up with a series of four different types of hardback sketchbook you can make at home using no specialist equipment, just materials you should have already. There is no sewing involved. I will release a film each week to guide you through the process. How you decorate them is entirely up to you - keep them plain or express your full artistic abilities!
In this first one, we will make a concertina or accordion sketchbook, using strips of paper. I used cartridge paper - I didn't realise that this was not a universal term. So if you are thinking cartridge what??? It is a heavy quality, smooth drawing paper. About 100-120lbs, 250 gsm - it will take a light wash quite happily
The next three will show you how to make:
* Accordion/concertina sketchbook from a single unglued sheet of paper - • How to make a watercol...
* Perfect bound sketchbook - • How to make a watercol...
* Ring bound sketchbook - • How to make a watercol...
With thanks to Christie Raley and Michael Ann Fitzgerald for suggesting this topic. Also thanks to @JaninaMaher, who introduced me to concertina sketch books ages ago at the Reading Guild of Artists. If there is a question you want to ask me, just write it in the comments!
Materials:
Cover - mount board, grey board, old hard back book, recycle sketchbook cover
Paper - of your choice - cartridge, watercolour, pastel, acrylic
Glue & brush - white PVA, acid free if possible or glue stick
Scissors/knife/cutting mat/ruler
Bone folder/knife handle/scissors handle
Newspaper, non-stick paper (clean cereal packet middle)
Decoration - up to you!
Many books are sewn, and while these are very durable, the process is more complicated and your will need waxed linen thread, needles, a press etc. If you get bitten by the book binding bug and are interested in taking things further, may I suggest two great books and also a fabulous channel here on RU-vid:
Bound - by Rachel Hazel - ISBN:9780857835079
Making Handmade Books - by Alisa Golden - ISBN 9781600595875
Sea Lemon: / sealemondiy
I am a full time artist based in Berkshire, UK, and every week I share a tip, trick or technique I wish someone had told me about ages ago. I release them at 2pm on Sunday (UK time), so if you like what you see please like the film and subscribe, plus the notification bell so you will be the first to know about new films.
If you are looking for in-depth online watercolour courses, please head to www.lizchadertonstudio.co.uk and I also do in person workshops in Berkshire. I have written three books: Painting watercolour on canvas, Painting animals in watercolour, Line and Wash Painting. All published by The Crowood Press.
#lizchaderton #bookbinding #concertinasketchbook
8 янв 2022
