Books and Papercrafts Handmade in Austin, Texas
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Oshibana Pressed Flower Art
Oshibana is the Japanese art of creating pictures and compositions using pressed or dried flowers and plants. This delicate craft, which gained popularity during the Victorian era but has roots in 16th century Japan, involves carefully preserving flowers and foliage by pressing them until completely dry, then artistically arranging these flattened botanical elements to create scenes, landscapes, or abstract designs that are typically displayed under glass. Artists must carefully consider the natural colors, shapes, and textures of their pressed specimens, often using flower petals, leaves, stems, and grasses to create depth and detail in their compositions.
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Handmade Paper
Handmade paper embodies the meticulous craftsmanship of manually pulping of natural fibers that often get thrown away such as cotton, paper packaging, or recycled materials, followed by painstakingly forming, pressing, and drying the sheets by hand. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, handmade paper promotes sustainability by utilizing renewable resources and reducing environmental impact compared to mass-produced paper made from wood pulp. The artisanal approach to papermaking not only preserves traditional craftsmanship but also fosters a deeper appreciation for sustainable practices in the modern era.
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Books and Journals
Handcrafted books and journals offer a unique and personalized touch, with each piece meticulously created using upcycled and recycled materials. Each book is printed and the pages are hand cut to size, resulting in one-of-a-kind creations. All of the paper is sourced from sustainable FSC certified merchants and paper waste is always consciously recycled. Whether it's a bespoke notebook or a custom journal, these artisanal creations provide a tangible connection to the artistry and care infused into every page.
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Colorful Quilling
Quilling, also referred to as paper filigree, is an elegant art form involving the meticulous rolling, shaping, and adhering of thin paper strips to form intricate designs. Its historical roots extend back to the Renaissance era, with potential origins dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt. Despite its ancient lineage, quilling continues to captivate contemporary artists, who continually innovate and push the boundaries of this enduring craft.
The Birdie Blog
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Getting Started with Oshibana Art
Getting Started with Oshibana: The Art of Pressed Flower PicturesImagine creating a delicate landscape using nothing but flowers and leaves, or crafting a botanical portrait that preserves summer's beauty through...
Getting Started with Oshibana Art
Getting Started with Oshibana: The Art of Pressed Flower PicturesImagine creating a delicate landscape using nothing but flowers and leaves, or crafting a botanical portrait that preserves summer's beauty through...
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Why FSC Certification and Sustainability Matter
As an artist deeply invested in paper crafts, I've come to understand the profound impact our choices have on the environment. One of the most significant ways we can contribute...
Why FSC Certification and Sustainability Matter
As an artist deeply invested in paper crafts, I've come to understand the profound impact our choices have on the environment. One of the most significant ways we can contribute...
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Quilling for Beginners: How to Get Started
Quilling, the art of rolling and shaping paper strips into intricate designs, can seem daunting to beginners. But with a few simple tips and tricks, you can quickly master the...
Quilling for Beginners: How to Get Started
Quilling, the art of rolling and shaping paper strips into intricate designs, can seem daunting to beginners. But with a few simple tips and tricks, you can quickly master the...
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News
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Creating Sustainably
At Book Birdies, we are dedicated to art that respects the planet. All our paper is FSC certified and sustainably sourced and we go out of our way to reuse and recycle!
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Artists Support Artists
Collaboration with other artists of all mediums is welcome and embraced! Have an idea? Shoot us an email on our Contact Us page.