Look at books with new potential

Let’s take another look at the book. Sure books are filled with stories and information, but I like to play with the physical bits of books. Getting ready Books as ART Materials, online class.

WORDS

I  like to cut them out and make new poems and messages.

found word poem

Pages

Can be used for:

  • collage
  • printmaking
  • painting
  • origami
  • shredding

collage of book parts

collage of book pages

BOOK CLOTH

I love this stuff! It is easy to pull off the book board and has wonderful texture and stability.

book cloth for art making

I like to use the ragged thready edges in collage.

Collage with book parts

Book Board

I use book board to make new journals and sketchbooks. I tear off the cloth and then cut the board to a new size. Cover the board with gelatin prints or other media. It is nice and strong and a inexpensive alternative to buying new.

gelatin prints drum leaf book

Spines and Mull

This stuff is my favorite part of the book.

spines and mull for art making

This is the mixture of glue and mesh and paper and cloth that make the spine of a sewn book strong but still flexible.

I use these bits and pieces in collage.

collage book parts to make mixed media art

I hope I have stimulated the way you look at books. I know many folks see books as precious and would not dream of tearing them apart. That is ok. The books that I use are destined for the recycling bin anyway.

There is a great website that lists book sales around the US https://booksalefinder.com . Many sales have been cancelled but hopefully that will change.

In the mean time, ask family and friends for unwanted books. You may be doing them a favor.

If you would like some guidance in using Books as ART Materials, then join us in the online class. Read the details on the workshop page.