Hinged Book {Tutorial}

If you have never tried book binding, I would encourage you to do so. Handmade books give you the opportunity to choose the perfect size, colors, papers.  You can make a notebook, a photo album, a sketch book all using variations of the same techniques.

As promised, here are some photographs that illustrate how to make a simple book with a hinged cover.   I used 4 sheets of 12 x 12 scrapbook paper, grosgrain ribbon, acid free book board (from Hobby Lobby), glue, a bone folder, my favorite craft knife and a metal ruler.

Love Is...

It was 1933 and he was 24 when they got married.  That is young by today's standards when marriages are delayed until we graduate from college, begin our careers, and check a variety of things off our to-do-before-we-have-children lists.

Fabric Box {Toot}

In good conscience, I can't really call this a tutorial, since so many details are missing.  That's why I titled this, "Fabric Box {Toot}".  Get it?  It's almost a "tutorial"!  Details are missing, not because I want them to be a secret, but because I didn't create this project with the intent of also providing instructions. 

However, I am honored that enough of you have asked about the project for me to respond by at least giving you a general idea of how to proceed with a box of your own.

Gala, Indeed

It truly was a Gala in every sense of the word.  And, as always, I learned a great deal by photographing the people that make an event just that - an event.   This one was sponsored by the City of Arlington's Senior Center.  And what an event it was!

The Year of Light

 I've dubbed 2012 as The Year of Light and this photograph is as good place as any to begin.

The afternoon of New Year's Eve, Tim made a fresh pot of coffee, poured a cup, and set it on the kitchen counter as we talked. Unfortunately for quality conversation, the bright sunlight coming through the window and the steam from the coffee were irresistibly distracting.

Little Ladybug

She wasn't too sure about me, and I can't blame her.  Two days after Christmas, all dressed up in her new ladybug dress and then meeting a strange woman (that would be me) with a camera. 

But what a beautiful little girl.  What gorgeous eyes.  And what a delightful personality! 

Joy and Stuff

Today was simply crazy fun. This brother and sister team are so good about being willing to try some poses that are  just a bit outside "the box". 

And for that, I credit their mom.

Katrina

2005.  Hurricane Katrina was one of the five deadliest hurricanes in our nation's history.  It caused over $80 billion in property damage.

This wedding photograph was just one piece of history, severely damaged during the storm, but lovingly salvaged and now carefully restored.

Tomato Cage Christmas

I've been seeing so many Christmas tomato cage ideas on Pinterest, I decided to share how we've been creating tomato cage topiaries for nearly 15 years.  

I first saw the idea of twisting a garland around tomato cages in Southern Living.  Loved the fact that it is beautiful both during the day and at night.  

To duplicate this look:

Sneak Preview

OK.......I can't resist....our Christmas card is in the works and I had to give you just a little sneak preview.  Jokingly, I claim that we have a fan base for our Christmas cards. Therefore, each year I try to design a card that trumps previous years.  And an unwritten (till now) rule is that I can't repeat any card.