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Recycling antique and vintage books

I have a degree in ecology, and have spent many years working as a teacher. Now I combine my passion for creating, with my love of the environment, here in beautiful Norfolk.

I hate throwing things away - probably as a result of my enthusiasm for recycling, but also, I can't help thinking about what these objects meant to the people who first owned them. I find myself drawn to old books and ephemera, which have been destined for the scrap heap because they are in such poor condition. I pick up the volumes that no-one else wants to buy, either because they have become disbound, or have too many missing and damaged pages. Then the fun starts as I try to find as many ways as possible to revive their contents and find them new loving homes!

Firstly, I begin by salvaging any usable pages, such as full page illustrations or maps, which are just too lovely to throw away, and I sell these in my Etsy shop: PaperPopinjay (https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/PaperPopinjay). It is really satisfying to know that these hidden gems are finally seeing the light of day, and bringing joy their new owners.

Next I turn my attention to recycling the book covers. I have had lots of fun experimenting! And here they are, at Popinjay, transformed into something beautiful for you.

I hope you find something you like.