I don't often aspire to make my own drawing materials, but I took a class in coptic bookbinding at TechShop San Jose a few weeks ago because I had a coupon. It's a great way to make lie-flat sketchbooks. There were just two of us in the class. We were provided precut paper and MDF covers and learned how to sew waxed thread across the signatures to create this secure binding.







I liked learning the technique and can see the advantage of using my own mix of papers, but I'll probably leave the sketchbook-making to the pros.

How about you? Have you ever made your own sketchbook?

What a gift to be able to drive a few hours to see nature's wonders in the relative quiet of winter. Sketched Cathedral Rocks and Bridalveil Fall as we exited the park.

We spent our first New Year's in California cooking, eating, and going to wineries with friends. On that Sunday, M and I capped off the holiday with a hike in Henry Coe State Park, where I just had to stop and paint this twisting, gnarled tree. Not a bad way to start 2016!