Etsy

Katie Gonzalez :: linenlaid&felt

E-mail: linenlaidfelt [at] gmail [dot] com
Shop: linenlaidfelt.etsy.com
Blog: linenlaidfelt.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LinenLaidFelt

I'm a cardigan-wearing bookbinder living and working in East Nashville, Tennessee, with my husband and my dog.

I studied the art of bookmaking in Cortona, Italy during the summer of 2006. Visiting a medieval bindery, working with luxurious materials, and learning to make paper by hand instilled a sense of traditional techniques into my work. My handbound books channel these traditional techniques into bright, contemporary books that emphasize textures, colors, and patterns. Archival materials make these books — whether journals, photo albums, guest books, or sculptural expressions — into long-lasting works of art.

While attending the art school at the University of Georgia, I spent time studying ceramics, painting, printmaking, letterpress, and photography while earning my degree in graphic design. I continue to merge these disciplines into my book arts.

I work in my home studio among my wheel-thrown ceramic mugs filled with binding tools, my sewing machine, and rolls of decorative papers sprouting from baskets and bins.

I'm a member of the Bookbinding Etsy Street Team (BEST), and you can view the team blog at www.bookbindingteam.com. You can also use the tag "bookbindingteam" to search for books made by BEST members.

Hometown: Lake Zurich, Illinois
College: University of Georgia
Husband: Tony, newspaper reporter and juggler
Pet: Riviera, snuggly brindle bullmastiff
Author: Vonnegut
Typefaces: Legacy, Garamond
Preferred Helvetica: Light Condensed
Artists: Chuck Close, Dale Chihuly, Lee Friendlander
Song: "Love You Madly," by Cake
Travel: Italy, Portland, Charleston, Minneapolis, Sante Fe, Seattle


Frequently asked questions:

What inspired the name linenlaid&felt?
I've always had an attention to detail, so when it comes to the world of books, the papers I use are a top consideration. Texture gives each paper its unique fingerprint. It's what sets two seemingly similar cream sheets apart. Paper has many textures, including the namesakes for my business: linen, laid, and felt. Linen paper is embossed to resemble linen cloth. Laid paper is distinguished by a texture reminiscent of handmade paper with lines impressed by papermaking molds. Felt paper features a finish applied with felts for a distinctive weave.

What can I do with a handbound book?
In a tech-savvy time, many people I meet at art shows ask this question with a sense of wonderment. My answer usually begins with journals, but extends to include many other options. A handmade book can be a sketchbook, baby book, wedding guest book, photo album, scrapbook, gardening journal, travel journal, address book, birthday book, day planner, or artistic display.

Did you really make the entire book?
The answer is yes. I do not use any kits or prefabricated materials. Everything is done by hand. I cut, tear, fold, glue, and sew everything myself to create one-of-a-kind books.