Since I borrowed books from the Heritage for my rustic crates, I needed to make more to actually use in the Studio permanently.
I printed a new batch of covers, most are popular and/or classic novels. Here they are with the covers I had leftover from the Heritage library stash.
Usually when I make books, I use basswood or balsa for the inserts with the edges painted white, tan or gold. My scraps of basswood and balsa go into a bin where I can pick and choose various thicknesses. This time, I had a piece of cardboard in my stash. When I finish using a lined notepad, I usually keep the cardboard backs for templates and trials. As I was making books, I decided to use one of the thicker cardboard pieces…1/16″ thick.
Instead of painting the edges, however, I left them natural. Because this cardboard was made from pressed layers of paper, it looks very convincing as a book insert…especially for mass produced paperbacks. If the cardboard separates a little, it just makes it look like a book that’s been read a few times. :D I’m sure white or dark yellow mat board would work well, too. Less work…no painting needed!
I like the way these look as is, but I’ll make some more books with painted edges to mix in for a more realistic variety. I also need some varying widths. :]
The birdcage is a jewelry pendant; the vase is by Jane Graber.
