Favorite Book Cover Materials -- Artist Papers
Favorite Book Cover Materials — Artist Papers
September 27, 2022
Artist’s Papers
Artist papers come in an endless range of prints and colors. My favorites come from Hollander’s in Ann Arbor, Michigan. ( https://www.hollanders.com) Hollander’s carries a range of weights and types of paper. Their website is divided into the different kinds and they also describe the best use for each kind of paper. It comes rolled in a study mailing tube carefully packaged.
I also find 12” x 12” scrapbooking papers at Michael’s (https://www.michails.com), Hobby Lobby (https://www.hobbylobby.com), and JoAnn Fabrics (https://www.joanns.com). If I buy two of each, I usually have enough for the front and back covers of a book. If you are in need of paper right away, these stores are all over the United States.
I use PVA glue to attach the paper to book board and carefully smooth, with a bone folder, both the outside of the covers and the wrapped edges on the inside. After gluing I place the covers under heavy books with wax paper over and under the pieces. After a day or two I will glue the end papers to the covers and press them under books as well. Some people like to use a book press.
Rows 1-3 and the first three photos in Row 4 are created with paper from Hollander’s. I use primarily Italian Letterpress, Florentine Print, and Marbled Paper for binding books. These papers are crisp but not too heavy. Their fold is smooth and neat, especially nice for Chinese Thread Boxes (Zhen Xiao Bao).
At Hollander’s, Italian Letterpress paper runs between $4.75 and $5.25 for a 19”x27” piece. Florentine Print paper runs between $3.50 and $5.25 for an 18”x28” piece. Marbling paper has a big range of cost depending on how it is made. Check it out at Hollander’s.
The last nine photos are books created with scrapbooking paper. I do not use cardstock weight paper because it is too heavy and does not fold as crisply and tightly. As you can see scrapbooking paper comes in a multitude of patterns and colors. When you find it on sale, it is often 99 cents a sheet!
Your book covers can be as unique as you like. By adding closures, ribbons, cords, or beads, your creation becomes your own design.
Where do you find your favorite papers? Share below!
Have a special day!