A Perfect Winter Weekend


Hi Reader,

I just had a perfect winter weekend and it only involved wearing a bra for two hours! I caught up with Substack newsletters, drew some Zentangle tiles and watched an old movie. I played with Flo in the snowy garden, watered house plants and cleaned out a drawer. Andy and I went out for dinner then listened to nostalgic music while sipping gin and tonics. I took a hot bath and experimented with air fryer recipes (not at the same time).

This type of weekend might sound boring to some, but to me it’s heaven. I'm ready to tackle the week leading team VPD. Tell me about your perfect winter weekend.

New on YouTube

Have you ever wondered what those numbers in linen thread mean, like 18/3? Ali breaks it all down and answers more of your bookbinding questions in her latest YouTube video!

New on the Blog

Check out our latest blog post to learn more about the creative process of making paste papers.

Ali's Fun Instagram Finds

Our weekend workshop kicks off this Thursday! There's still time to join us for 50% off the cost of the class. I seriously cannot wait to see all of the lovely books that will be made. 💕

Have a cozy and creative week,

Ali

145 Main Street, Suite 208, Groton, MA 01450
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Handmade Journals with Ali Manning

I've been growing a creative community since the internet dark ages of 2007 when I started my first blog. I now run an online bookbinding community called the Handmade Book Club. It's a subscription site that provides monthly education and connection. As of the end of of 2023, my list is 23k. I'd love to collaborate with other artists and creators.

Read more from Handmade Journals with Ali Manning

Happy February, Reader, While I’m an introvert and rather solitary soul, moments of connection and collaboration are vital to my well-being and help refuel my creativity. I adore connecting online, but nothing beats a hug and being able to look at others' books in person. That’s why I was thrilled to join the Massachusetts chapter of the Handmade Book Club at Indigo Whimsy in Tewkesbury last week. We worked on a collaborative canvas, chatted, hugged, and shared books. A big shout-out to...

Hi Reader, The world has felt particularly turbulent this week. To avoid total overwhelm, I tried to focus on my own tiny sphere of influence by seeking refuge with my family, my friends and my handmade book community. In doing this I was overcome with such a sense of pride in this group of makers and for this safe space we have made together. I'm so thankful to those who stepped forward this week to teach, to facilitate meetings, to answer questions in the Facebook group and create artwork...

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