Earth & Sky Storyteller Journal

Shibori handmade paper is crafted by skilled artisans using traditional papermaking techniques. Each sheet of paper is handmade, adding a unique and artisanal quality to the finished product. The papermaking process involves harvesting plant fibers and transforming them into pulp, which is then hand-spread onto screens, pressed, and dried.

The shibori technique is applied to the paper by manipulating the fibers before the paper fully dries. Artisans may fold, twist, pleat, or bind the paper to create intricate patterns and textures reminiscent of shibori fabric. Once the paper is dyed, these manipulated areas resist the dye, resulting in beautiful, unique patterns with a handmade aesthetic.

Beautiful handmade lokta paper from Nepal is one of the primary papers used in Hypatia Storytellers.

Lokta is produced using bark from the daphne shrub, a cousin to the laurel and the rhododendron. Lokta is very eco-friendly, as the plant regenerates quickly and is one of the few under-utilized plant resources in the world.

Each lokta sheet is made by hand and celebrates its “wabi sabi” beauty. Delightful to write, paint, and glue on, it is incredibly strong and flexible. All of the handmade pages of the Hypatia Storytellers can also be used, in addition to the archival plain page soft white paper in between each decorative sheet!

Natural raw leather that is full of character with an aged, rustic, one-of-a-kind look and distinctive pull-up.

Natural leather develops a rich patina over time and may darken, soften, and develop color variations.

Each scratch, scuff, and crease tells a story, adding depth and personality to the leather’s surface.

When desired or needed, “Leather CPR” (easily purchased through Amazon) can be massaged into the leather to restore its moisture and erase scratches.