Kokomo

This archival, hand-sewn journal/sketchbook is made from 80 gsm Mohawk Superfine archival paper stitched with Irish linen thread in the linked pattern that dates back to the ancient Copts. This stitch allows the book to lay open easily at any page.

 This book’s endbands are blue and white cotton, and its bookmark is grosgrain ribbon.  Its spine is covered in Dubletta cloth from the Netherlands, and its boards are wrapped in a 1957 Indiana road map distributed by Texaco service stations.

 Treasure binding began with monks in the 6^th Century who would encrust volumes with jewels. During the Renaissance, there was a resurgence in treasure binding. This is a contemporary revival of the treasure binding in which a lucky charm has been embedded in the cover of this book.  

 The talisman in this journal is a commemorative coin depicting the Apperson Model B Touring car, which was made in Kokomo in 1905.  The Apperson Motorcar Company made racing cars from 1902-1926; its production was severely impacted by WW I.  The 1908 Apperson “Jackrabbit,” could reach speeds of 75 mph and cost $5,000, but the model that was promised to go 90 mph with its 6.25 inch bore and 5.5 inch stroke was the “Big Dick.”  You win some; you lose some.

This book is roughly 6 x 9” with more than 150 blank pages.