Chunky 5-hole Pamphlet Stitch Book with Kirsten Varga

Today's project is inspired by the December 2021 StencilClub stencil set Mix and Match Botanicals designed by Rae Missigman! I am inspired by the combination of realistic and abstracted organic shapes in her designs. I knew I could use them to create lovely layered compositions. By using gloss medium in one of my early layers I created a resist effect that allowed the stencil designs to show through multiple layers.

Making a chunky book involves a lot of folding, hole-punching, and sewing but don't let that deter you. I find it meditative to give myself over to the repetitive work and let my mind rest. Instead of a long stitch method that involves using one piece of string to sew all the signatures, I decided to individually stitch each signature to the cover using a 5-hole pamphlet stitch. The button thread I used is thin and doesn't stand out too much against the cover. You could use a thicker or more vibrant thread for a totally different look.

Check out the video below for all the details! 

Thanks for stopping by the StencilGirl® blog and I hope you have a creative day!

Kirsten :)

You can find me on Instagram!

StencilGirl® Stencils:

Mix and Match Botanicals by Rae Missigman

Other supplies used:

Watercolor paper 

Drawing paper

Dictionary pages

Acrylic paint

Acrylic ink

Gloss gel medium

Matte medium

Palette knife

Makeup sponges

Scissors

Ruler

Button thread

Needle

Awl

Beeswax