CULLMAN, Ala. – Sips n Strokes is an art shop located in Cullman’s Warehouse District. It caters to adults and children, offering painting classes and other creative opportunities. It also allows others with artistic gifts to lead classes of their own. One such event took place Saturday, Sept. 19, when local artist Cayla Grace Murphy-Carnes hosted a book binding class.
The class began with creating book covers from cardboard and paper. Once the front and back covers were assembled, it was time to decorate. Along with materials provided by the organizer and shop, attendees brought items of their own.
One participant works at a nearby thrift shop and was able to provide pictures donated in frames that were to be discarded. This added a twist to the collage designs, each proving unique to its owner.
After the decorating, sheets of paper were provided to be measured and cut according to the size of the book itself. Careful measurements were marked to help in the last step of binding and assembling the final product.
Murphy-Carnes said she began binding books at 16 and even used the skill to craft her daughter’s baby book.
Though the supplies were purchased at a nearby craft store, she said, she often seeks out used books at thrift stores to give new life through book binding.
“People have sent me recipes that I can print and add to the cover,” she told The Tribune.
She said the upcycling possibilities are endless.
An additional book binding class is scheduled for October, but has already booked out. Murphy-Carnes said she has entertained the idea for a possible class in November.
She currently leads painting classes on Mondays and every other Wednesday. Sips N Strokes offers paint kits and options for canvases, which are included with the purchase of a class.
Sips n Strokes is located at 102 First Ave. NE, Cullman. Visit https://sipsnstrokescullman.rezclick.com for more details.
