Odelae's journals are born from the faded and timeworn materials that survive from the early 1900s. My inspiration is discovered in old chests and bookstore salvage boxes. No longer valued or falling apart, I reclaim what is remaining and revive it.

Founded in 2005, Odelae is a small book arts and graphic design studio located on Orcas Island off the coast of Washington State. While studying design at a local university, I was required to take a bookbinding course taught by Professor and Book Artist, Elsi Vassdal Ellis. It was there where I discovered my passion for signatures and stitches. Since then bookbinding has become my path of creative-nourishment and, in the many focused movements of my hands, a way to offer my awareness to the present moment. The mindful tying of knots, the concentrated folding of paper and the careful pulling of thread is evident in each finished book.

Odelae journals are inspired by nature and by folk lore from around the world. I build each journal the old world way using hand tools-- an awl, needle & thread, ruler, bone folder and steel blade. Materials, as well as my tools and binding methods, are chosen with careful consideration for the environment.

Odelae's clam and oyster shell books are an original design and an ode to the ocean-- a token reminder of the mysterious beauty of the natural world. Inspired to live in harmony with the environment, I find myself constantly observing and seeking out patterns from the world around and within, searching for balance between the natural world and the one created by mankind.

Aside from bookbinding, I love wandering off-trail in the forest, practicing tea ceremony and adventure-making with my kids. Nighttime swimming gives me the goosebumps and old-fashioned swings make my heart sway.

Featured Shop Interview:
www.etsy.com/blog/en/2013/odelae

Featured on Etsy's Short Stories:
www.etsy.com/blog/en/2012/short-stories-clam-shell-book