Ep 11. The Book Maker

In season 1 episode 11 of A Craftsman's Legacy, entitled "The Book Maker," host Eric Gorges visits the workshop of Jane Gryffiths, a book artist and printmaker based in Vermont's picturesque Green Mountains. Gryffiths is passionate about her craft and uses traditional techniques to produce beautiful books with unique illustrations and bindings.

Gorges is immediately struck by Gryffiths' workshop and the beautiful books that she creates. He learns that Gryffiths has been making books for over 25 years and has honed her skills over time, learning from her mistakes and constantly improving her craft. She takes pride in creating books that not only look beautiful but are also functional, comfortable to hold, and easy to read.

Gryffiths takes Gorges through the process of creating a book, starting with the illustration that will be used for the cover and the pages inside. She uses a traditional printing technique called relief printing to create her illustrations, which requires carving the design into a block of wood or linoleum and then inking the relief surface before pressing it onto paper. Gryffiths explains that this process allows her to create intricate designs with texture and depth, giving the finished product a unique and handmade feel.

Once the illustrations are created, Gryffiths moves on to binding the book. She shows Gorges how to fold and sew the pages together, and then how to create a cover using book cloth or leather. She explains that the cover is not just there to protect the pages inside, but also to provide a tactile and visual element to the book – it should draw the reader in and entice them to pick it up.

Throughout the episode, Gorges and Gryffiths discuss the importance of tradition in craft and the value of handmade items in a world dominated by mass-produced products. They talk about the pleasure that comes from holding a book made by hand, and the connection that is created between the bookmaker and the reader.

"The Book Maker" highlights not only the beauty and artistry of bookmaking but also the skill, patience, and dedication required to master this traditional craft. Gryffiths demonstrates that bookmaking is not just a job, but a passion – something that requires a deep love for the craft and a commitment to excellence.

As always, "The Book Maker" is shot in stunning high-definition and features beautiful visuals of Gryffiths' workshop, her tools, and her finished products. It is a beautifully produced and inspiring episode that will appeal to anyone who appreciates traditional crafts and the beauty of handmade objects.