Contemporary Paper Marbling

An illustrated introduction to an increasingly popular art form. The art of paper marbling is having a revival. Contemporary paper artist and author Lucy McGrath specializes in paper marbling and shares her skill and passion for this beautiful craft. Her book is a wonderful introduction to the craft for beginners which takes readers on a journey through simple to advanced techniques - with step-by-step instructions and photography - plus a range of some of the most beautiful paper marbling today. The book covers: An introduction and brief history; Preparation and equipment (with recipes for the thickened water that the paint floats on plus the paints themselves); Planning your design (mood boards, colour palettes, testing paint behaviour and paper); Pattern tutorials (ways of applying paint); Swirl and git gel (Turkish traditional pattern); Nonpareil (fine tooth comb use); Spanish Wave; Ebru (flowers on the surface of the water); Advanced Techniques (including figurative images); and finally marbling onto three-dimensional items such as baubles and pots. There is also a selection of projects that uses marbled paper, including bookbinding, origami and collage. Richly illustrated with some of the most beautiful paper marbling today, this book will introduce a wonderful craft to a new generation.

Lucy McGrath is a professional paper marbler and artist. Her marbling is characterized by a fresh, contemporary colour palette and patterns that celebrate the expressive, chaotic qualities of the water on which marbling is based. She won the Arts Society/Cockpit Arts Award in 2016, and now works with brands such as Molton Brown and Matches Fashion, as well as offering her own range of luxury stationery and original marbled gifts as part of her business, Marmor Paperie. She runs monthly marbling workshops to teach the craft to others, as well as making regular appearances at events to demonstrate the craft and raise awareness. Lucy and her work have featured in magazines such as Country Life, Stylist and Red magazine.