The Last Stand

I've just returned from my last ever (in an official capacity!) Guild of Book Workers Standards of Excellence Seminar, the annual autumn gathering of bookbinders, conservators and paper wranglers from across the USA. This wonderful event changes cities each year, and in the 30 years I've attended, I’ve only missed two, which I believe still qualifies me for some sort of "golden bone folder" award.

This year, I was thrilled to be joined by dear friends and fellow bookbinders Cathy Adelman (NC) and Coleen Curry (CA), who took initiative and style to a whole new level. They organised the creation of delightful matching aprons and T-shirts, with all sales going to support the Guild’s Educational Scholarship Fund. (Let it be known: bookbinders do love a good apron... and a good cause!)

To top it off, the gala dinner charity auction raised an extra USD $200 thanks to one determined bidder who simply had to take home one of these now-iconic aprons. Who knew aprons could become collector's items?

It was a genuine pleasure to have Andrew with me for my final Standards in Iowa City. I got to show him the ropes and introduce him to the lovely Guild family.

A heartfelt thank you to all who have made these years so memorable. Here's to the next chapter — and fewer checked-in skins of leather and knives at airport security.