Our Journals
Eco-Friendly Journals
I started making my own journals in 2016, shortly after moving to the lovely mountain town of Buena Vista, Colorado, preferring the uniqueness of anything handmade to the homogeneity of mass-produced items from a factory. Now that I share my journals with others, my hope is to provide them with something that is personal and unique.
For me, journaling has been an important tool on my journey of self-discovery that has led to a deeper connection with myself and to something beyond myself. Not only have I found a vehicle to express my thoughts, hopes, and dreams, but I have also created the container that holds those words. I hope those who use my journals will also find benefit and meaning as they travel their own paths of self-discovery.
My journal covers are made with earth-friendly, sustainably harvested papers from Nepal, Thailand, and Mexico. Many of these papers are handmade and/or hand marbled in their country of origin. The eco-friendly Crush paper pages are made with by-products from citrus fruits, corn, olives, coffee, nuts, and more along with 30% post-consumer recycled waste. I hand-bind the journals with the Coptic stitch.
I offer two sizes: a 6" x 9" journal with 64 pages and a new 4" x 7" journal with 48 pages, which is the size I give to participants in my workshops.
Papers
Lokta paper comes from the Lokta, or Daphne, bush in Nepal. The bush grows throughout the Himalayas, and when properly cropped, can regenerate in 3-7 years. Tibetan monks first used Lokta paper 1000 years ago to transcribe their sacred texts, and some of those original documents are still in existence today. Lokta paper is strong, durable, and impervious to insects.
Mulberry paper comes from the bark of the fast-growing mulberry tree in Thailand, and is available in various textures. Momi refers to a type of Kozo (mulberry) paper that has a soft, crinkled texture. All types of Kozo fibers are strong and durable.
Mayan Huun paper comes from the Sansevieria (Mother-on-law’s Tongue) and Cattail, both renewable sources in Mexico. Mayan artisans use ancient Mayan and Japanese techniques to make these lovely and durable papers.
Pages
The pages are made of off-white Crush paper, which consists of by-products that would normally head for the landfill, i..e citrus fruits, corn, olives, coffee, etc. along with 30% post-consumer recycled waste. The paper is made using 100% green energy, and the company claims to reduce the carbon footprint by 20%.
Packaging
I use plant-based PLA (Polylactic Acid) bags. PLA is a new type of bioplastic made from plant starch or sugars, not petroleum. They are certified compostable (but please first check with your composting facility to see if they will accept them).
Where to Buy Locally in CO
Heart of the Rockies Medical Center
(Hospital Gift Shop)
1000 Rush Drive
Salida, CO 81201
Wholesale & Workshop Inquiries
For more information about a wholesale order or if you would like to collaborate to create a custom workshop designed to meet the specific needs of your group, fill out the form below or contact Mary Ann at 720-485-1431.