How do you refuel your creativity?


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 Christy for hosting us—it was really fun.

Have you gotten together with friends recently to create, or is it time you put something on the calendar?

New on the Blog

In this recent blog post, I talk about a bunch of various cover options for your handmade journals.

From the YouTube Archives

Here's a fun project to try! Learn to make cool, grungy image transfers using Wintergreen Oil.

February in the HBC

We had a fantastic guest artist session with watercolor artist Tiffany Sharpe this month. Tiffany showed us how to make these adorable teacups, and I'm not exaggerating when I tell you that Instagram was flooded with photos and videos of club members' cozy and creative mugs! Turns out, they're quite addictive to make!

I was especially moved by this reel (and the message) shared by club member Beth Pelham. ❤️ The club doors are currently closed, but if you're on our Priority List, you'll be the first to hear when we reopen—and it might be sooner than you expect!

Ali's Fun Finds

Have a 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

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paste paper notebooks

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Hi Reader, I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the date - November 18th. I know it's been a busy year but holy moly - it seems to have flown by in the blink of an eye. It feels like just yesterday that I was admiring daffodils in my garden and now I'm getting Christmas ornaments out of the attic. As we approach the end of the year and consider the events of 2024, I will reach for my journal to try to make sense and meaning. If you wish to join me, here are some prompts that might...