Getting to know the zigzagger for some machine appliqué work. In my recent sewing efforts I have very much enjoyed becoming more familiar and comfortable with all the parts of my antique Singer (originally owned by my great-grandmother).

Along the way I happened to learn that for various reasons, this type of sewing machine is particularly well suited to bookbinding. Funny how things work out sometimes.

In all honesty I wasn't sure I wanted to bring this machine into my studio until Susan Mills told me in a class that antique sewing machines are good for working with leather, being generally suitable for heavy-duty sewing (indeed, my mother used it for heavy drapes).

It's all worked out well so far with the exception of the machine still needing a treadle. The hunt will resume shortly..

Happy New Year! I hope the close of 2005 was good to you and that 2006 is off to a good start.

On recent web travels I stumbled upon Montage-a-google. The collage above came from a search for "bookbinding." Try plugging in some of your passions and see what you get. I've got a few more on flickr (along with many photos of my work).