Have you got a favourite book? Not necessarily the topic, although that's important too, but the actual physical object. A book that you thought, "Yes, this is exactly how a book should be." Perhaps you even have a small collection of books that are differently perfect. (Please share pictures with me if you are in this lucky situation!)
There were a few books we used as inspiration for the chapbook I'm putting together now.
The first was Notes on Printing and Publishing Literary Books by Andrew Steeves. The second, A Daibo Coffee Manual, was more of an affirmation that we were headed in the right direction. Both have nearly identical dimensions in the hand, nearly identical margins and width for the text block. They differ in their binding and text treatment.
Different reading binding, different type faces and size, and yet, a familiarity.
(Using books as inspiration for making books is nothing new. In fact, Andrew talks about it openly as part journey as a literary publisher.)
Shortly, I will be starting a new series on Instagram about the pollen record of Dartmoor (the topic of our new chapbook!). If you're interested, but you prefer email to getting sucked into doomscrolling, you can subscribe to receive these updates as a special edition to our regular newsletter.
Toby's Gardenfest - May 1-2 at Powderham Castle, Devon. For proficient and aspiring gardeners. We will have a craft show booth. You can even bring me a slice of cake on Saturday. It's my birthday!
Delamore Arts - May 1-31 at Delamore Estate, Devon. Sublime setting for one of the best art shows in the southwest of England. Several of our large framed pieces will be available, as well as our stationery in gift shop.
Craft Festival - June 12-14 in Bovey Tracey, Devon. The premier, multi-award-winning festival for craft in the southwest of England.
On Paper Festival - June 20 at the Bath Pavilion, Somerset. A delightful paper festival with over 70 exhibitors. There workshops in the week leading up to the grand fair, as well.
17 July - Taster session. Spend the morning with us on Dartmoor. £125, includes a light lunch and letterpress-printed notebook.
Solo creative retreats. Spend guided time in our letterpress workshop, and working on your own creative practice.
The British Printing Society is having a Gathering at the University of Stirling, Scotland 26-28 May. Great speakers, and the world-famous bring and buy sale! Tickets are free, and you don't need to be a member of the British Printing Society to attend. Registration and details at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-crail-press/t-ejammoe
Letterpress and Botanical Ink from Dartmoor, England. Every Thursday we send a delightful newsletter. It’s filled with stories about our letterpress studio and life on Dartmoor.