TealStripes

Shop FAQs:

-How long does it take to hollow out a book?

I work in batches (5-6 books at a time), so while it does take time to glue the book together, hollow it out, and wait for it to dry before it’s “finished”, I cannot estimate. Plus, if I choose to alter the front cover, that can add time. Maybe 3-4 hours? But really, you can’t rush the process.

-You hand-carve every book?

Yes. I go through a lot of Exacto-knife blades.

-Why books?

I love to read, so I’m used to being around books. Books are universal, even though we rely on technology now Everyone is familiar with books. People like the idea that an old book is being used for something else; it's been given a new life. They have an odd nostalgic quality. (Do you like the smell of old books?)

-What type of glue do you use?

I use Mod Podge, which works great as an adhesive AND as a coating.

-Why do you line the inside with book pages?

If I left the “inside” of the book “blank”, you would see all the crazy cuts, jagged edges, etc., from the process of hollowing out the book. By lining the inside with pages from the actual book, it hides any boo-boos and looks nice. I think it creates a good, visual texture.

-Do you alter/upcycle anything else?

Not yet. I have so many other craft/fine art pursuits, I don’t have time to take up anything new.

-Where do your books come from?

MOST of the books I received for FREE from local libraries. I like knowing that I am putting them to good use, rather than seeing them thrown away. However, this limits the quality and type of books I can find.

-Do you have [particular title]?

I have many books in my stash, and I do try to get books that have fun/unusual/popular titles. But if you are looking for a particular book, I will probably not have it. I’m not a bookstore nor pretend to be. If there is a particular genre you enjoy, PLEASE ASK. I might have something that you’d be interested in.

-Why don’t you have [particular title]?

Again, I get my books for free. I don’t collect books all the time, nor do I have the time. I also do not buy “new” books to hollow out. If there is a book you’d like, we can set up a custom order. I have purchased books before for custom orders.

-Why do some of the front covers have painted silhouettes/shapes and others do not?

I always use hard cover books because they’re sturdy, but some of them have plain/blank/bland/discolored front covers, so I like to make them more appealing by adding painted silhouettes, etc. Some books have such nice covers, that they don’t need to be altered. I like to embellish the covers because it gives a unique quality.

-What could I put inside these books?

Most are deep enough for jewelry, candy, receipts, gift cards, crayons, even crochet needles. Whatever you can fit in them!