Patterns and Paper

If you don't already know, I have launched a new etsy store called Rescued Paper where I sell journals that I hand-cover in old paper - maps, book pages, altered dictionary pages. I am having a great time doing this. I have always loved maps and dictionaries, both of which are increasingly obsolete due to our smart phones, computers and GPS devices. And while GPS can get you where you are going rather efficiently, there is nothing like studying a map, imagining places and seeing the bigger picture. So I am happy to give old maps one more go 'round with these journals.

I am working on another type of Rescued Paper product using the insides of security envelopes. You know them, the envelopes that have patterns printed on the inside so the contents isn't visible through the envelope. So I started saving them, thinking there must be something that I can come up with to recycle these babies. And while I work on that, I became smitten with the patterns. Have you ever really looked at them? It turns out there are so many different patterns. And they are so interesting. I don't know the history of this (but if I find it out I will certainly share) but I can't stop being fascinated with the variety and complexity of these hidden treasures. So I thought I'd share a few with you. And stay tuned to see what I do with them!