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The Tinker Tote: A Thoughtful Gift for Makers, Artists & Creative Wanderers
TRANQUIL • LUMINOUS • ROOTED Stories from the studio, reflections on process, and the art of the handmade. There’s a moment many artists know well—the gentle ritual of gathering your favorite tools, the ones that feel like extensions of your hands, and settling into a space to create. Whether that space is a kitchen table, a sunlit studio, a park bench, or the front seat of your car between errands, having your tools organized and ready makes all the difference. That’s exac

Melanie Grant
2 days ago3 min read


8 Essential Tools I Use for Bookbinding and Handmade Art
A look inside my studio at 8 essential tools I use for bookbinding and handmade art. These thoughtfully chosen favorites bring ease, precision, and joy to the creative process.

Melanie Grant
Jul 314 min read


A Note of Thanks: Free Printable Gratitude Cards to Share Your Appreciation
Gratitude is powerful—and often unspoken. I created these printable cards to help you share it. Sign up to receive your free set of 8 Gratitude Cards.

Melanie Grant
Jul 262 min read


Guillotine Paper Cutter for Bookbinding - My Favorite Tool
If I had to name the one tool I couldn’t live without in my studio, it’s my HFS guillotine paper cutter. Here's why it's essential for any bookbinder.

Melanie Grant
Jul 103 min read


Choosing Paper for Bookbinding: What I Use and Why: Summer 2025 Edition
Wondering what paper to use for bookbinding? I’m sharing my go-to choices, what features matter most, and how I make practical, beautiful books in my bindery.

Melanie Grant
Jul 83 min read


Beginner Bookbinding: Why I Fell in Love with Handmade Books
Bookbinding doesn’t require fancy tools or formal training—just a love for paper and a bit of guidance. In this post, I share why I fell in love with bookbinding and how you can start, even as a complete beginner. I walk through the essential supplies, simple techniques like pamphlet and stab binding, and share tips and tutorials to get you started. If you’ve been curious about handmade books, this is your invitation to begin.

Melanie Grant
Jul 72 min read
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