A New Home For BOOKFORGE...Could It Be!?

I'm thrilled to share some exciting news about BOOKFORGE, though I want to preface this by saying nothing is finalized yet. We're still in the early stages of discussions, but I'm very hopeful about the possibilities.

This Would Be Perfect! Keep Your Fingers & Toes Crossed!

Since leaving the PACA building last October, BOOKFORGE's ability to offer its full range of services has been limited, and working from my home studio hasn't been ideal. However, there's a potential game-changer on the horizon!

I'm currently in talks with the owner of a fantastic artist building/community space. This location would be perfect for BOOKFORGE to operate on multiple levels: as a traditional hand bindery, an educational facility offering classes and workshops, and a unique bookstore with an art gallery vibe.

This building already houses paper making, letterpress printing, and other art studios – a vibrant creative community with which I've had the pleasure of collaborating. The prospect of BOOKFORGE becoming a permanent part of this inspiring space is incredibly exciting!

The space is expected to be available in about six months, which gives me time to plan the layout, secure funding for the build-out, and prepare for the move. It's an ambitious timeline, but one I'm confident we can achieve.

Here's a sneak peek at the vision: The bindery studio will be the heart of the space, with a pony wall separating the main workspace from the public area. This wall will double as a beautiful display for first edition, first printing collectible books on one side, while on the other side, it will transform into a functional wrap-around workbench for all my binding processes. Think black iron pipe with sleek oak countertops, like my current workbenches, but with integrated drawers and shelves for maximum efficiency.

Visitors will be able to safely observe the binding and restoration work happening in the studio through the pony wall. The rest of the space will be lined with a mix of short and tall bookshelves, interspersed with stunning artwork hanging between them. To enhance the experience, there will be a self-serve coffee bar in the back and a comfy seating area with a couch and lounge chairs in the front – a perfect spot to relax and delve into a good book.

I'll be sure to keep you updated as things progress.

Stay tuned for more exciting news about the future of BOOKFORGE!