Last summer I entered the NYC Midnight flash fiction challenge. It was super fun, and I recommend it to anyone who likes to write and needs a little spark to get going, or just likes to compete. I wrote a few things, but only one I was really proud of.

Fast forward to this spring, when I took a bookmaking art class at my local art center. Another fun experience! I love making things, and though I’ve made books before this workshop gave me a lot of new ideas and techniques. The instructor was so nice, and always brought in lots of sample books for us to look at. One was a mini-book, and I immediately thought of my flash fiction story, and how nicely it would fit.

So, I spent waaaaay too much time figuring out how I’d make this flash fiction into a mini-book. First I tried the “accordion” method, which was the style of the sample I’d liked.

Accordion style is cool, but it was a bit fussy to make and kind of awkward to read. So I kept playing, and settled on a pamphlet style binding.

I found some old silk thread in the depths of my sewing basket, and used an eyelet tool and string to create a “portfolio” type look for the cover. I think it came out really nice!

I’m going to attend the Rainbow Book Fair in NYC next weekend, and I’m planning to use these as rewards for those who sign up to be ARC (advance review copy) readers there.

If you are in the New York City area on Saturday the 22nd, and love LGBTQ fiction, consider attending the Rainbow book fair! Its a fun event. I hope to see you there 🙂