North Pole workshop's got nothing on us

Helen designed the invites, and the real ones—printed on some of her fuzzy-toothy handmade paper—make a great reminder of the unique wares we've rounded up for this year's Artisan Holiday. We hope to see you there.

With the prototypes done for my family history project (only 50 more copies to go, but that's winter work), I'm moving on to making even more goods for the sale Dec. 4. I'll also have some of my classics, such as the Postcard Writer's Companion:

a detail of the functional interior

tissue boxes covered in gorgeous Japanese chiyogami paper

the portfolio, useful for anyone from students to seniors


and of course the photo holders featured in a recent post. When was the last time you received real pictures you could thumb through again and again? The photo sheath, filled with a dozen 4 x 6 snapshots, makes a thoughtful, durable, and elegant gift—rare indeed.

Save the date, holiday shoppers

Some time ago papermaker Helen Hiebert and I put together a successful sale called Handmade Holiday, which ran for a couple years. In the intervening time we've discovered someone stole the name (the nerve!). We'll get over that, but we did miss the low-key camaraderie among participants, and the chance to make a festive connection with our lovely, loyal fans.

So here's a reprise: Saturday, Dec. 4, at Helen's house and studio, 2012 N. Emerson.

Look out for cards in your mailboxes, exhortations by e-mail, and further blog posts.

See you then.

Bragging rights made portable, and protected

This project came about when a friend asked for something in which to carry pictures of her new niece. On the chance that she wants what others do, I made a photo sheath, if you will, that fits a dozen snaps and easily slips into a pocket or purse. No glue's required, so the sheath bends and flexes as needed, all the while safeguarding sweet moments captured by camera.


Letterpress printing showcases my new favorite typeface, Legend. I love bold descenders!


Someday I'll get these posted in my Etsy shop.

Speaking of shops, The Arrangement, 4210 N.E. Fremont in Portland, Oregon, started carrying my hand-bound portfolios.

Talk about a huge art play

We missed the cake and official hooha, but my studio supervisor and I made it to Oregon College of Art & Craft in early October as it unveiled its latest construction project to the public. All's I can say is, Wow. And: When can we move in?



A walkway links this newest bit of campus with the old. Check out the brick at lower left.


Xiexie means Thank you in the Middle Country.


Zhang Ping's brick is just out the back door of the book arts department, where I've taught what he taught me, passing on hundreds of years' old knowledge to dozens more students.