Latest news with #craftsmanship
New York Times
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- New York Times
In This Parisian Atelier, Bookbinding Is a Family Art
By James Hill for The New York Times First comes a love of books. Great patience and skill is required to restore old books, but equally important is the belief that each one is a work of art. The women who run the Atelier Devauchelle in Paris sew and create new bindings. They restore old bindings and torn pages. They create slipcovers and special boxes to protect fragile workshop is located near Drouot, the auction house, which sells antiquarian books. Naïk Duca has worked at the atelier for 19 years. She presses a thin heated roller onto foil to repair gold lines on leather book covers, a process known as also uses an array of brass stamps to emboss elaborate patterns onto the leather.'What I like is that it changes all the time, even if it seems I'm always doing the same thing,' she explained. 'I need to adapt to each book according to its structure and materials.' Miki Tsuzaki, who has worked at the atelier for 22 years, specializes in binding and gold embossing. Her movements must be extremely precise when she sews the pages together with waxed linen thread. The craftswomen handle an extraordinary stock of materials, including silk, mother of pearl, wood and leathers that come in a vast range of colors and textures. 'Because we are working with objects that are a part of our heritage, we feel responsible,' said Catherine Colin, who directs the workshop. She has been there for 35 years. Isabelle Devauchelle, the owner, said that the workshop often doesn't know the value of the books it is repairing: 'It's better that way.' Her grandfather started the business in the 1950s, and she took it over after her father died in 2011. 'We are the largest bookbinder doing entirely artisanal work in Paris,' she said. Tsuzaki applies glue to heavyweight paper that will cover a slipcase. This is a page from an 1839 first edition of Stendhal's 'La Chartreuse de Parme.' Anne Lecat, who has been at the workshop for 17 years, specializes in paper restoration. First, she dips damaged pages into a special solution to remove the mold. Then she immerses the pages in a tinted gelatin bath, which returns them to their original hue. James Hill for The New York Times 'The number of clients has remained constant over the last years,' said Colin. 'They come because they have a love of books, and often the financial resources.'But who does the work has changed considerably. 'Originally it was just men,' Devauchelle said. 'Then, when I came it was mixed, and now it's just women.'
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sue Barker hails 'iconic creation' as Wimbledon-themed gin launched
The strawberries and cream are being served, the sun is shining, and a host of tennis royalty have landed in SW19 – signalling the Wimbledon Championships are about to start. Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, and Alexander Zverev will be battling for the Wimbledon title, but they won't be the only big servers in town. Advertisement In celebration of five years as the Official Gin Partner of The Championships, Sipsmith has unveiled its most iconic creation yet: Top Seed Gin – a limited-edition spirit distilled with real Wimbledon Centre Court grass seeds. Crafted as a 'spirit for champions,' Top Seed Gin pays homage to the pursuit of tennis excellence and Sipsmith's commitment to craftsmanship. This first-of-its-kind gin incorporates authentic grass seeds from Wimbledon's meticulously maintained Centre Court as one of its botanicals, blended through the same process used in the brand's renowned London Dry Gin. The gin has been distilled precisely to 41.03% ABV, as a nod to Centre Court turning 103 this year. The gin was officially unveiled at an exclusive event hosted by tennis legend and former Top Seed, Sue Barker CBE, celebrating the unique blend of sporting heritage and innovative distilling. Advertisement Sue Barker said: 'Top Seed Gin perfectly captures the essence of Wimbledon: a celebration of tradition, excellence, and innovation. It's a winning blend that celebrates skill and craftsmanship, both in tennis and in distilling.' Sipsmith co-founder Sam Galsworthy said: 'It's an honour to launch this creation alongside the legendary Sue Barker. Our partnership with Wimbledon has always been rooted in shared values of excellence, heritage, and dedication to craft. With Top Seed Gin, we've bottled the spirit of Centre Court – quite literally.' To complement its fresh and distinctive character, Sipsmith recommends enjoying Top Seed in its signature serve; a refreshing cocktail mixed with cloudy apple juice, elderflower cordial, Supasawa or lime juice, and a splash of soda, making it the perfect toast to a summer of tennis. This exclusive gin will be available as a secret serve at Wimbledon's Pergola Bar during The Championships. Advertisement Fans in the know can order The Top Seed cocktail off-menu and will also receive a bag of Wimbledon grass seeds, enabling them to grow their own botanicals at home. For those unable to attend in person, the gin is exclusively available to members of Sipsmith's exclusive Sipping Society, which can be joined via the website or by visiting their Chiswick distillery:
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
Look: Kaaba Kiswa replaced for Hijri New Year, weighs over 1415kg
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has unveiled the new Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba on the first day of the Islamic New Year, continuing a tradition that has been upheld for more than a century. The new Kiswa weighs 1,415 kilogrammes and consists of 47 intricately embroidered black silk panels adorned with 68 Quranic verses stitched using 24-karat gold-plated silver threads. To produce the new Kiswa, 120 kilogrammes of gold-plated silver thread, 60 kilogrammes of pure silver, 825 kilogrammes of silk, and 410 kilogrammes of raw cotton were used. Additionally, 54 gilded pieces were crafted using eight specialised weaving machines within the complex. Take a look at photos displaying the process of replacing the Kiswa: The truck with the Kiswah at Masjid Al Haram — ð���ð��®ð��¿ð��®ð��°ð��®ð��¶ð��» (@HaramainInfo) June 25, 2025 The Kiswah change is underway at Masjid Al Haram — ð���ð��®ð��¿ð��®ð��°ð��®ð��¶ð��» (@HaramainInfo) June 25, 2025 The installation of a new Kiswa is a complicated process that takes a few hours to complete, by up to 200 skilled technicians and craftsmen. The Kiswah Replacement continues at Masjid Al Haram — ð���ð��®ð��¿ð��®ð��°ð��®ð��¶ð��» (@HaramainInfo) June 25, 2025 The complex's operational staff includes 159 skilled craftsmen who work to produce the gold-embroidered pieces for the holy Kaaba's Kiswa.
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Concrete Mike LLC Introduces Decorative Concrete Services for Summer
06/26/2025, Satellite Beach, FL // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // As summer begins, property owners across Florida are looking to enhance their outdoor living spaces, and Concrete Mike LLC is ready to meet that seasonal demand. Based in Satellite Beach, the company specializes in expert decorative concrete services that add both beauty and value to residential and commercial properties. Known for turning ordinary concrete surfaces into extraordinary, custom-designed pieces, Concrete Mike LLC offers concrete solutions that combine durability, style, and long-lasting appeal. Whether clients are looking for vibrant colors, intricate patterns, or textured finishes, its team of skilled craftsmen can bring their visions to life. Summer is the best time to improve high-traffic areas like pool decks, walkways, patios, and driveways with stylish finishes that can withstand Florida's heat, humidity, and heavy use. Concrete Mike LLC provides expert decorative concrete services in Satellite Beach and surrounding areas, helping homeowners and businesses create long-lasting surfaces that reflect their personal style. Its services include stamped concrete that mimics the look of brick, slate, or stone, as well as textured and colored finishes that complement Florida's coastal aesthetic. Founded by Michael McMurray, who brings over a decade of hands-on experience in concrete finishing and repair, Concrete Mike LLC stands out for its personalized service and attention to detail. Each project receives direct oversight from McMurray to ensure high-quality craftsmanship and outstanding results. Whether revamping an existing backyard or installing a new decorative patio, the company delivers work that is built to last and made to impress. Aside from decorative applications, Concrete Mike, LLC specializes in concrete repair. From cracks in driveways to damaged pool decks and aging surfaces, the team tackles both structural and cosmetic repairs with efficiency and transparency. Its concrete repair in Satellite Beach offers a practical solution for restoring worn concrete to a safe and attractive condition without the need for full replacement. In addition to Satellite Beach, Concrete Mike, LLC serves residential and commercial properties in Cocoa, Titusville, Orlando, Kissimmee, Daytona, Palm Bay, Vero Beach, Port St Lucie, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, Palm Beach, Florida Keys, and Monroe County, FL. Fully licensed and insured, the company guarantees clear communication, on-time delivery, and fair pricing. Its website features an impressive portfolio of past projects, demonstrating the range, creativity, and quality behind its concrete solutions. With its services, Concrete Mike LLC not only helps homeowners enhance curb appeal but also improves the functionality and safety of outdoor spaces. All installations are designed to be slip-resistant and weather-resistant, making them ideal for Florida's climate. Whether property owners are preparing for summer gatherings or simply want a fresh look for their property, now is the time to schedule decorative concrete work. For those interested in resurfacing existing concrete or designing something new from the ground up, Concrete Mike LLC offers free estimates and consultations. Its team guides each client through the process, from choosing finishes and patterns to customizing designs that match their vision and budget. To learn more about Concrete Mike LLC and its decorative concrete services, visit About Concrete Mike, LLC Concrete Mike, LLC is a Florida-based concrete finishing company providing expert decorative concrete services and concrete repair throughout Satellite Beach and surrounding areas. Known for its quality workmanship and reliable service, the company transforms ordinary concrete into lasting and beautiful surfaces. ### Media Contact Concrete Mike, LLC 1290 Jimmy Buffett Mem Hwy #204, Satellite Beach, FL 32937 (321) 341-8307 newsroom: Source published by Submit Press Release >> Concrete Mike LLC Introduces Decorative Concrete Services for Summer
Auto Blog
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Lincoln Aviator Recall Raises Concerns Over Ford's Build Quality
Recalls Keep Mounting as Quality Concerns Persist Ford's long-standing struggle with quality control remains a persistent issue, making headlines. Just this month, the automaker has been dogged by a string of recalls, and it's not just its mainstream models that are affected. Even the high-end offerings aren't spared. Last week, the Lincoln Aviator was recalled due to seat switches that could stick. The luxury midsize SUV shares its bones with the Ford Explorer but promises a more refined experience. Instead, what customers are getting is another reminder that even premium badges can't escape the effects of rushed manufacturing and supplier issues. But that isn't the only problem with those Lincoln Aviators. In a safety recall filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ford disclosed that more than 132,000 units of the 2020–2025 Lincoln Aviator are being recalled due to trim components that may fall off while the vehicle is in motion. It's a basic problem, but one with potentially dangerous consequences. And for a brand that markets itself on quiet luxury and craftsmanship, it's another credibility blow. Body Panels That May Detach While Driving The issue centers around the Aviator's rear door C-pillar appliques and window division bars, which Ford says could detach while the vehicle is in motion. These parts are supposed to remain securely fixed to the rear side doors. Instead, due to improper application pressure during assembly at a supplier facility in Mexico, the adhesive bonding may be insufficient, leading to components separating from the body. The problem is similar to the B-pillar appliqué issue on half a million older Ford Explorers, which, like this latest recall, can become a hazard on the road. In both cases, the defect poses a clear safety risk. Flying trim pieces, even if lightweight, can create hazards for other drivers on the road. As of late May 2025, Ford confirmed it had received 1,105 warranty claims related to this issue, though it says there have been no reports of crashes or injuries. The problem affects Aviators built between October 19, 2018, and May 30, 2025. It's the kind of oversight that should have been caught long before vehicles left the factory floor. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Source: Zac Palmer A Problem That Could Have Been Prevented Ford says the solution will involve either repairing or replacing the affected components. Owners will be notified by mail starting late July 2025 and instructed to bring their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for the fix, free of charge. While the exact timing of the permanent remedy rollout is still being finalized, interim notices will go out between July 28 and August 1. Dealer alerts begin July 22, and vehicle VINs will be searchable in Ford's database from that date onward. For now, if you own a Lincoln Aviator that's part of the affected model years, or you know someone who does, it would be safe to double-check the C-pillar regularly until the fix gets rolled out. About the Author Jacob Oliva View Profile
