This past summer (2025), I had the opportunity to experiment with different paper crafts at the Art Annex, exploring my interest in book arts in particular. For one project, I applied the concept of the hinge system used in Jacob’s Ladders to make a book that could open from either edge.
A traditional Jacob’s Ladder involves multiple blocks connected by a series of ribbons that can produce a cascading visual effect. For the book, I sandwiched an accordion-folded strip of paper between two boards, and set the paper hinges above and below it, weaving between the two boards, following the same principles as a Jacob’s Ladder. The hinges allow the book to open from both edges, accessing either side of the folded paper strip.
I used red lokta paper for the cover and the four paper strips that act as hinges, as it was strong enough to hold up to the action of the opening and gave a soft, leathery feeling to the surface of the book.
For the clamshell book, I drilled two holes into each clam shell and then used a typical coptic binding method to stitch the shaped pages in between the two clam shells.
For another, I used a clamshell as a cover, and stitched in the pages.
