For ten years I kept a file for The Gates. It included the newspapers, articles, postcards, my precious swatch, the lanyard, my own photos, and even a NY subway poster. The intention was to make a journal with large enough pages to host all the items. I procrastinated, got distracted, moved on to other things. Knowing the anniversary was approaching, I determined to make a commitment to getting it done. Ten years is along time to hold on to a bunch of stuff when it could be enjoying proper celebration in book form. A little research led me to a multi-ring portfolio binder, with black pages in protectors, that were the perfect size. Leaning on the pre-made system felt really good because I was finally moving forward, and I knew I could still make it my own by contributing to the backgrounds with paint and stencils. I had several items that fit a 8.5" x 11" page protector so I added the extra holes required to fit the binding, then tiered them in.
Is there a project you're working on where progress is hindered because you think you have to go fully custom? Get out of your own way and find a short-cut that will jump start the process. You'll always find a way to make it your own.
