Retrieved from Ashes

07 July, 2010

Title: "Retrieved from Ashes"

This book is taking ages but time is running out now. Mum is going home next month and the book has to come to an end. Finally I worked out the title for Mum's book: "RETRIEVED FROM ASHES". While I'm waiting for the new idea to arise here are few more details...

1. "DIPLOMAS" is made by using the old book covers as a background which are resting on layers of leather and gauze:

2. "NOSTALGIA" is another page symbolizing the country that disappeared in early 90's.


Beeswax! One of my favourite techniques for aging the pages... No other technique would make such an aged look. I'm so happy how this booklet turned out. I have billion ideas for the future projects but Mum's book is the priority.

I have been fascinated with bookbinding for a while and after studying several books (which did cost me quite a bit but lucky the exchange rate was very good -what a way to justify spending!!!!!).

I managed to learn one technique: Slip Knot Binding and gaining a new skill is priceless isn't it?



3. 1960: the frame was made from the pages of an old book which I glued together, burned and sealed with beeswax (once again nothing is better than BEESWAX!!!):


... and changes to previous details (typical for me: to critical for everything I do)... Looking the previous design I had feeling that something was missing but it takes a lot to find that "perfect" detail. I still think that this page is not quite finished yet and I'm continuing to think about what is it.


But one thing I can promise: the following two pages won't be changed any more.



15 comments:

Davinia said...

The book is awesome and your mum will treasure it. So many wonderful techniques and the book binding looks fabulous.

Gaby Bee said...

This book is to die for, the layers are just perfect. I would love to see it in person. All of the detail that you have added make this one a knock-out and your bookbinding looks truly professional. My absolutely fav is the "NOSTALGIA" page! Simply brilliant!!!
I'm sure your mum is over the moon with this book!
Enjoy your day and keep up your awesome work!
Big hugs, Gaby

Glenda said...

What a fabulous book Svetlana. I love them all but particularly the nostalgia one. I am sure your Mum will treasure it. Well done

Lucy said...

BEAUTIFUL book Svetlana! Love the aged wax look, love the binding, in fact just love the whole entire book.
What a labour of love for your Mother, how proud she must be.
Well Done!!
Hugs Lucy

Nicole said...

Just great work. You sure have put so much into it,

Martina said...

Your creation is unique and magnificent, dear Svetlana. Beautiful!

Seth said...

This book is spectacular Svetlana. I have to admit that I kept gasping as I saw each picture. This is definitely a work of art and one that I wish I could hold in my own hand and look through. Your mother will absolutely love it!

lisa_crofts said...

Svetlana this book is visually stunning. It is so so beautiful an amazing work of art. Bring it on sat I would love to see it in real life. Hope you dont mind i am going to share it on facebook

lisa_crofts said...

Hey svetlana, what were the book binding books you bought are there any in particular you would recommend.

Chris Atkins said...

Oh my god.

Your book is amazing. I am really looking forward to seeing it in the flesh.

Leslie said...

This book is beautiful Svetlana! These are just the sort of elements that have zooming in for a closer look. I love the leather, the wire, the metal and aged fabric. The BEESWAX. Nice job!

Samantha Marshall said...

You are amazing!!! This book is fantastic!!!! I love everything about it-all the techniques and the way you've put it altogether. Beautiful.

Karen said...

Wow Svetlana, your book is absolutely fantastic. Even better IRL I just love it. I love how you have worked all those techniques together to make something so beautiful. I am very sure that this will be something to be treasured for a very very long time.
Like the slip knot binding, tried to work out how you did it after seeing Kelsey's book.

barbara said...

what a beautiful book! the techniques you used to make the pages speaks to the past.
your mum will love it!

Evangeline said...

The pocket watch in the leather pouch is killing me! It is just fantastic. So many wonderful details in your work. What a treasure of a book!