I always make book covers toward the end of a project. In the case of Pocketful of Posies, I’d already spent a couple of years on the book before I was ready to tackle the all important jacket design. See the front cover in an earlier post here. Whereas the front requires a title and by line, all the back really needs is space for a bar code.
sketch for "Pocketful of Posies" back cover
I decided to make a child inhabited landscape and neighborhood without a clear up or down. This way, I could set the scene for the book, going from general to more specific inside. Day and night would be separated diagonally.
Since the illustration already had a border of leaves, I just had to make a pattern (in red paper) and cut the felt into the wavy shape.
Then, I blanket stitched around the entire outside edge with pima cotton. I also signed and dated the bottom corners with chained stitched embroidery floss. This original illustration is part of the Pocketful of Posies Traveling Exhibit at the Danforth Museum in Framingham, MA, which will be on display through January 23rd.
back cover from "Pocketful of Posies" 2010
Note: See other posts from the Pocketful of Borders series here.
SALLEY MAVOR 
I have always loved borders since they frame the artwork and make it POP. Yours are always an integral part of the work that you do and are just as important as the centers of your creations. Again, thanks for your postings and your inspirations…I always love learning more about your step by step processes!
Love the back cover–and the border.
I received e-mail notice that Amazon is shipping Pocketful of Posies. I pre-ordered it in May! Will be great to have it in my hand. Seeing it on line is fun, but I want to read it/enjoy front to back!
Helen, I’m glad to hear that your copy will arrive soon, after such a long wait!
Just love being able to see how you design. The back cover is so clever, with the night and day theme. Such nice colors, too. So many hours of stitching and it is adorable!
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful- I LOVE your work Salley! XX
Oh Salley – I would love to spend just a few hours strolling around in your mind. What wonders must be hidden there. Each piece you create is just so full of detail and fun. Love the little metal stars that just jump out at you amidst all of the color. *sigh* a mini vacation. Thanks!
I must get over to Amazon and order this. I have two of your other books.
Nan, the first printing is sold out, but reprints should arrive soon.
Salley, I always look forward to your posts and read them right away. I am looking forward to getting my copy of “Pocketful of Posies” from Amazon. I just got “The Hollyhock Wall” this week and it’s wonderful. I am a graphic designer and specialize in publishing and understand what goes into the creative and approval process and I am bowed over at the creations you come up with! So original! I also made 2 – 4″ dolls from your “Wee Folks” book and as you can tell, I have become a huge fan of yours! After making the dolls, and comparing to your Iris doll (my Christmas present), I have an even deeper appreciation for your skills. Wish I could see some of your work in person. Maybe one of these days I can make it up North!