About
Hi, my name is Elissa Campbell and I’m a bookbinder.
I entered the world of bookbinding in the 2nd grade with my first creation,“ The Dog Who Couldn’t Bark,” using oak tag, construction paper, and staples. The cover and pages were cut into the shape of a dog.
I wouldn’t revisit the craft until I was in graduate school studying Art Therapy. I worked part-time at a store named Paper Source, a store in Cambridge, MA. The craft had a great effect on me – I ending up writing my graduate thesis on using bookbinding in the Expressive Therapies.
Unfortunately, I once again abandoned the book arts after entering the “real world”. A few years later, the company I worked for advertised a craft show where employees could exhibit their work. I thought, “Hey, I remember that time I made books…I liked that. Hmmm…” I started making books again – this time, it stuck.
Blue Roof Designs came to life in 2000. Yes, I live in a house with a blue roof. Actually, it’s the second house I’ve owned with a blue roof.
In my studio in beautiful Montpelier, Vermont you will find me working with handmade papers from around the world, satin and brocade cloths, leather, and silky ribbons. I strive to create books that maintain the beauty and integrity of the materials with which I work. I especially love working with papers that are pieces of art, in and of themselves. All of the materials I use are acid-free to ensure the longevity of your photos.
I really enjoy making blank books – each book is meant to be transformed by the owner. I consider it “accessible art.” The owner of one of my books will put his or her own life experiences into the book, making it truly one-of-a-kind.
Everyone has a story to tell…tell yours.
I am a proud member of the following organizations:
Upcoming Events
Vermont Open Studio Weekend Blue Roof Designs studio | Montpelier, VT | May 26, 2012
Saturday May 26, 2012
Sunday May 27, 2012
Come for a tour of my studio, demonstrations, and savings up to 50% off seconds and discontinued styles. There will also be selection of bookbinding supplies available for purchase.
Children are welcome!
For more information about Open Studio Weekend, please visit the Vermont Craft Council website.
Directions: Exit 8 off I-89. The exit ramp becomes Route 2. Follow Route 2 with the river on your left. When you reach the junction of Routes 2 & 302, stay on Route 2 for 0.3 miles. Turn left on Gallison Hill Road, at the big obnoxious Kia dealership sign. Travel 0.8 miles to #846 on the left side of the road. The house is gray with blue trim.
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The Travel Companion Journal Studio Place Arts (SPA) | Barre, VT | June 6, 2012
Wednesday June 6, 2012
Wednesday June 13, 2012
Not only does travel offer you the opportunity to experience culture and adventure, but also the opportunity to invest in yourself. A travel journal is a wonderful way to create a tangible memory of your journey.
In this workshop, participants will create a journal with a double-needle coptic binding, an intricate stitch that will be visible on the spine of the book. Not only is the coptic binding beautiful, but it also allows books to remain flat when opened. The journal will include pockets both inside the covers and in the text block, allowing you the opportunity to save lots of stuff from your travels – tickets, photos, pressed flowers – you name it!
Participants are encouraged to bring small photos, paper ephemera, and/or other flat items to decorate the covers. Additional materials will be available for use during the class. In this two-day workshop, each participant will leave class with a completed book and basic knowledge of bookbinding technique. You will receive a detailed handout and resource list for all materials we use.
Some bookbinding or sewing experience is helpful, but not required.
Cost: Members $55.00 / Non-Members $65.00
Materials fee: $15.00 to the instructor
Supplies: Awl, bonefolder, metal ruler (at least 18” long), X-Acto knife or utility knife, cutting mat, scissors, pencil, glue brush, small photos, paper ephemera, and/or other flat items, spring clamp (optional).
To personalize your journal: Collage materials (small bits of handmade paper, fabric, fibers, etc., rubber stamps, pads, markers, etc.
Note: Bring the the supplies if you have them – don’t feel obligated to buy anything. I’ll have extras available.
Contact SPA at (802) 479-7069 to register.
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The Phabulous Photo Album Studio Place Arts (SPA) | Barre, VT | June 11, 2012
In this workshop, you will learn how to create an elegant hard-cover photo album using bookcloth and handmade paper – this is a wonderful keepsake that can hold 4” x 6” photos from your recent vacation or family holiday gathering.
Each participant will leave class with a completed photo album and a basic knowledge of bookbinding technique. You will receive a detailed handout and resource list for all materials we use.
No previous experience required – this is a great class for a beginner. You can even bring in your own cover materials to customize your book.
Cost: Members $30.00 / Non-Members $40.00
Materials fee: $12.00 to the instructor
Supplies: Awl, bonefolder, ruler, X-Acto knife or utility knife, cutting mat, scissors, pencil, glue brush.
Note: Bring the the supplies if you have them – don’t feel obligated to buy anything. I’ll have extras available.
Contact SPA at (802) 479-7069 to register.
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