Have we met?

 

I'm Bel Mills, book artist and trusty guide on your upcycled bookbinding journey.

​

My home studio, Scrap Paper Circus, is nestled just outside the vibrant city of Washington DC., and it's where I hang my multiple hats as book artist, mail artist, devoted teacher, and avid upcycler. Since 2016, I've been crafting one-of-a-kind handmade books from the most unexpected of sources--salvaged paper. But it's not just about me – I'm here to teach you how to unlock your inner artist too!

​

My Philosophy

 

I believe art is a way to re-imagine the world. I love finding magic concealed in ordinary materials and seeing potential where others might not. To me, a cereal box isn't just a cereal box; it's a book waiting to be born! Envelopes, cardboard boxes, paper sacks, even old file folders – these are my raw materials, ready to be transformed into extraordinary handmade books and mail art.

​

 

You Can Do It, Too

 

​

Best of all, every one of my classes follows this  philosophy. I’ll show you that you're surrounded by bookmaking supplies if you know where to look. This approach liberates you from the fear of "ruining" precious materials, inspires you to follow the call of creative experimentation, and infuses your book-making with a sense of freedom, whimsy, and delight! You'll end up with clever, personalized journals that aren't just beautiful; but a joy to create and use.

​

My Artistic Journey

 

The seeds of Scrap Paper Circus were planted in 2015. After a decade dedicated to parenting, I embarked on a new adventure by enrolling in book arts classes at our local university. There, I was captivated by the Fluxus artists of the 1960s and 70s, who turned everyday materials like envelopes, magazine clippings, and photocopies into art and artist books.

​

Inspired by their example, I began blending classic bookbinding techniques with found paper. The encouragement of a professor who purchased one of my original upcycled designs helped kindle my creative imagination. Soon after, another instructor asked if I'd step into her teaching role at a nearby art center. And just like that, my teaching career began!

 

After six fulfilling years of juggling teaching and selling handmade books on Etsy, I made a bold decision in 2022: I suspended my Etsy shop and devoted myself entirely to teaching. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm thrilled to have you along for the ride!

​

 

Embark On Your Creative Journey with Me!

 

My virtual, on-demand classes, are available HERE!