The Wee Journal

A Craft Business in North Leitrim

About Us

In my tiny North Leitrim bindery, I breathe life into beautiful journals, each a testament to my love for paper and history. Unlike the cold touch of screens, I find magic in turning pages and the rich textures of upcycled or sustainable materials.

These aren't just journals; they're heirlooms in the making. I meticulously handcraft each one, from measuring and cutting to sewing and pressing, honoring the slow art of bookbinding. Patience is key, for this is a labor of love.

But my passion extends far beyond the craft. I source from fair trade communities, support traditional skills, and even partner with a historical papermill preserving 19th-century machinery. It's a community effort, each page imbued with positive karma and a connection to the past.

For me, bookbinding is a journey through time, a reminder of the ingenuity that fueled writing and the power of the written word. With every bespoke journal, sketchbook, or photo album, I hope to ignite your creativity, help you treasure memories, and turn each page into a small act for a better world.

xxx

Natalie

The Bookbinding Process

I am self-taught, my interest stems from a deep love and fascination for the history, ingenuity, and civilisational impact embedded in a book, and later on for my appreciation for the deep transformative power of journaling. 

Bookbinding at The Wee Bindery is a meticulous, hands-on affair. Each creation begins with raw materials - boards meticulously measured, cut, and sanded smooth. These are then painstakingly covered and pressed to form the perfect canvas for the book's heart. The paper itself undergoes a similar transformation, being folded, trimmed, and pressed to precise dimensions. Finally, comes the sewing - a variety of techniques employed entirely by hand. This is a slow and deliberate dance, each stitch a testament to the time and care poured into every book. There are no shortcuts here, only the quiet satisfaction of crafting something beautiful and enduring, one patient step at a time.

Behind the Scene

 

 Curious about the workshop? Have a peek and meet the team 😉

00:00 Workshop tour

00:16 Board preparation

01:57 Signature preparation

04:00 Sewing

05:45 Memories o be made...

Bookbinding is a slow craft!

Handcrafted with Love

Are you looking for a unique photo album, sketchbook, or journal? We offer bespoke services that will turn family memories, travel, wedding, and memorable events into true heirlooms. 

 

Hand written with soul

Are you looking to add a touch of elegance to your event?

Would you like to immortalise beautiful words?

We offer hand calligraphy services for all your projects or events, from weddings to thoughtful gifts. 

Wedding ideas

Love letter, vows, place name, name tag, table number, invitation, envelop, menu, thank you, blessing

Thoughtful gifts

Blessing, thank you, genealogy, poem, affirmation, tag

🤍 Embrace the benefits of journaling

🤍Explore the ingenuity and history behind the making and diffusion of books

🤍 Treat yourself to some journaling supplies (Etsy boutique)