Second year students specialising in graphic design combined their knowledge of bookbinding and graphic finishing with a precious material to create a series of photo albums – souvenirs of family events, holidays or special occasions. The photo albums were available in different formats and shapes and contained traditionally printed photos.
Each album was unique and reflected the individuality of the students, but all were linked by a common colour harmony.
The students began by sketching and designing the albums. They familiarised themselves with the material, tested the permeability of silk to glue and practised gluing techniques. After taking precise measurements, they cut the material to size and made photo albums with Shantung silk.
Shantung silk, also known as raw silk, is characterised by a slightly irregular texture and a clear surface. It is woven from a combination of raw silk yarns and has a distinctive look and feel compared to plain silk fabrics. Shantung silk, with its subtle lustre, is often used for formal wear and is prized for its luxurious look and natural texture, which adds depth and value to finished products.
The students also photographed silk cocoons and included the images in the albums. Each album was the work of an individual student, and together they also created a collaborative album. In total, they created six different albums.
