I love how this book turned out, but it was definitely a process to get to the finished product.
After talking to the client and coming up with a vision for the book, I knew I had stepped onto a bit of a learning curve, but I was excited to see what I would come up with. Let the process begin!
As most of my books do, I started with the paper. After cutting each sheet to size and folding them into signatures, I then measured out and cut the book boards to the appropriate size. I poked holes into the signatures, and then sewed them all together onto 3 cords. These cords create the ribs along the spine, and a way for the text block (the chunk of papers, now sewn together) to attach to the book covers later in the process. A string is attached to the stitching, which will later be a bookmark.
The text block is then carefully put into a book press, where the spine will be shaped. A rounded spine is achieved through a process of hammering the papers to shape, applying glue to the text block, and then leaving it to set in the press.
For the covers, many, many layers of colours and textures are applied until I’m happy with the look of it. Throughout that process, I am also drawing a bee image which will be featured on the cover. Once satisfied with my bee drawing, I scan it onto the computer where I test out different sizes.
I had various ideas on how to transfer the bee drawing onto the book cover. After testing out a bunch of them, I decided on using acrylic skins. This required further experimenting with different methods and mediums until I achieved skins with a desired feel and transparency. I applied a special medium and printed the bee drawing onto the skin. Once I had a successful print, I cut out and retouched the printed image with ink and then painted colour onto the bee.
Focusing again on the painted and textured covers, I had to do more experimenting to figure out how to achieve a raised honeycomb pattern. I tested out a variety of ideas and methods, including sculpting, carving, pouring, and peeling. Finally, I decided on a tinted pouring medium applied with a syringe which was very tricky. I sketch the pattern onto the painted book covers and carefully applied the tinted pouring medium, cleaning up the lines along the way. Once dried, I decided on the placement of the bee and glued it down. Finally, I sealed the book boards with a protective finish.
Once the book covers are finished, everything gets put together. The text block is attached to the boards, and the end papers are glued down, which further stabilizes the book.
I prepared a strip of leather and carefully glued it onto the spine and book covers. Finishing embellishments get put on the bookmark, and the book is officially finished once I sign it.
