Why hello, friends! 👋
This week’s episode of Happy Time Craftcast is extra special because it’s just you and me, hanging out in my workshop. No guests, no fancy setup — just me surrounded by books, tape, tools, and the happy chaos that comes with making something beautiful out of something discarded.
And what are we making? My all-time favorite book folding pattern: the Corset Fold!
I love this fold so much because it looks incredibly intricate but only requires two simple folds (and one in the opposite direction). It’s approachable, satisfying, and perfect whether you’re brand new to book folding or already addicted like me.
🌟 What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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How to create the Corset Fold step by step.
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Why I absolutely adore using Reader’s Digest Condensed books as my base.
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Tips on tools (yes, I gush about the humble bone folder and why it makes your life easier).
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How to display and hang your finished folded books so they shine. ✨
I also shared some fun updates from Big Raven Farm — including our brand-new 2026 retreat calendar (can you believe I’m planning that far ahead already?). And I introduced a new feature I’m really excited about: book reviews for creatives! This time I dove into Creative Collage by Naomi Vona, which is packed with gorgeous inspiration for anyone who loves playing with mixed media.
Here’s my favorite part about this episode: it’s not just a tutorial, it’s a reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s about grabbing a discarded book, folding a few pages, and letting the process surprise you. It’s about taking joy in the making, not stressing about the outcome.
So grab a book, fold along with me, and let’s make something beautiful together. I promise the Corset Fold will leave you feeling proud, inspired, and ready to see old books in a whole new light.
Until next time, keep crafting, keep smiling, and keep finding joy in the little folds of life. ✂️💕
xo,
Joleen
PS: 🎥 Watch the full episode below:
Guest Bio
There’s no guest in this episode — just host Joleen Emery sharing her passion for retreats, art books, and the joy of folding discarded books into beautiful art.
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Episode Chapters with Timestamps
[00:00 – 01:29] – Welcome & why I’m broadcasting from the workshop
[01:30 – 04:59] – Life on the farm + retreat updates (hello, 2026 calendar!)
[05:00 – 05:59] –New feature: Book reviews
[06:00 – 14:59] – Creative Collage by Naomi Vona — review & first impressions
[15:00 – 17:59] –Demo setup: favorite tools & books for folding
[18:00 – 21:59] – Why I love Reader’s Digest Condensed books
[22:00 – 29:59] – Corset Fold tutorial — only TWO folds needed!
[30:00 – End] – Tips for using bone folders & hanging your finished folded books
Quotes from the Episode
“Book folding isn’t about perfection; it’s about the joy of seeing something discarded turn into something beautiful.” – Joleen Emery
“I love supporting other artists — even if a book isn’t full of tutorials, just seeing someone’s portfolio can light a fire in your own work.” – Joleen Emery
“Sometimes you don’t need step-by-step instructions. You just need to open a book and feel inspired.” – Joleen Emery
“Creative practice doesn’t have to be a big, serious production — sometimes it’s a drive-by collage or a quick fold that sparks joy.” – Joleen Emery
Resources and Links
✨ Big Raven Farm Retreats – 2026 Calendar
✨ Creative Collage by Naomi Vona (available on Amazon)
✨ Tools mentioned: bone folders (plastic and cattle bone versions)
✨ Joleen’s favorite base books: Reader’s Digest Condensed Books
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