PARSIPPANY — In an age where many are leaning toward digital reading and books that were once loved by many are now being discarded, one 14-year-old from Parsippany is repurposing those books as “forever art” for true book lovers and those who simply like the uniqueness of the craft.
Landon Weiss, an eighth grader at Central Middle School, began to practice the art of book folding in July of 2017.
After creating a few samples, he opened an online store on Etsy.com. Since then, his business has grown allowing him to have a steady flow of online and local orders to fill each week. The experience has taught him to time manage between academics, sports, family, friends and the business. He has learned a great deal about budgeting, costs, and profits, and has had customers from across the country as well as international.
Landon has about 20 samples on his site, but the possibilities of what he can design and make are almost limitless. Some of the most popular purchases are personalized names, Love, Read, and an apple with a heart in the center.
He has sold NY Yankees, NJ Devils, and Boston Red Sox logo books and has costume designed books for very specific orders.
The method involves math, measuring, and above all…patience. You can view samples of his work on Facebook or Etsy.com by searching for BookFoldingFanatic.
He will have a display at the Saint Ann Church craft fair November 17 and November 18 with a selection of premade books and will be taking orders for specialized holiday gift purchases.
