Newcomer

Bookla came to us when we required it most. We had occupations in companies however we needed to make something of our own. We believed that the two of us combined would find something out. One of us with a business background the other with a background in arts. We had so many ideas. What could go wrong? Well, lots of things.

As book lovers ourselves we wanted to create products for booklovers. Gifts for bookworms that do not harm the books and neither the environment.

We had a dream of creating a unique collection of textile bookmarks with our own designs.

We envisioned these bookmarks, we had an image in our heads, however we haven’t really seen something like this.

We wanted bookmarks:

• Thin enough ?
• With beautiful designs ?
• Made with eco friendly materials ?

Bookmarks are forever

Since the end of 2019 we have attempted many times to create what we imagined. We used handcrafted materials yet we failed. The texture was too thick and the spine of our book was at serious risk.

At that point with the Covid, it was hard to proceed with the shop chase of fabrics so we realized we required another arrangement.

We started making our designs with the help of our graphic designer. We drew inspiration from writing, voyaging and nostalgic feelings. We were attempting to incorporate a wide range of things we adored. Even though at first we thought of having fewer designs we ended up having more.

We were crossing our fingers that these designs would come through the threads of the bookmark as well as in the design.

After research we chose to test our designs in a mechanical loom. The flat weaved textile was thin enough and that would save us as far as thinness goes. Also, the material used was from recycled polyester from PET bottles. There are more ecological materials than recycled polyester without a doubt,  however we appreciated the reuse of material.

The designs were flat weaved in both sides at the same time in order to have the result we wanted.

When we saw our bookmarks, let’s just say they weren’t the same as the design. They were even better. It’s true, the photographs do not do justice to them.

It is challenging when you create something that you like so much. How to not have them all for yourself?

How many bookmarks can one person own?
The answer: Never enough!

Booklover community

Apart from creating something on our own, we always wanted to give something back to people who value learning and reading even when the circumstances make it difficult.

We are focused on helping organizations aiding vulnerable social groups in Athens, Greece by providing and expanding access to books and education. These two organizations are Echo Refugee Library and We Need Books. You can learn how Bookla helps with their work on our About Us section.

We know people like ourselves are out there and we are excited to create a booklover community with you.

Enjoy,
Eugenia & Giannis