“All I really need to know about paperweights”, I learned in Doris Robinson’s “Paperweights 101”, edited by her husband Harvey. Both are experts in the field, and the book is written for the beginner. I might be considered a prequel to a beginner when it comes to paperweights, but as I looked through the book, I realized that all I needed to discover to whet my interest was what was enclosed between the covers. The paperweight on the cover of the book is particularly lovely, and it invited me into the pages, warmly.
The photographs of the paperweights, throughout the book, are of a wide variety and their method of creation is carefully explained in a way to inspire interest. The instruction is not overwhelming in detail, but rather it is stimulating in its presentation. My personal favorite of those displayed was the unusual Millville pair of Lily inkwells.
The glossary at the end of the book was the perfect conclusion since it explained and tied up all of the loose ends I encountered in my humble beginning foray into the world of paperweights. Who knows, although a novice I may be, I may just be the next in line to have a beautiful collection, lovingly amassed, with care and precision, as I travel down the years inspired by the Robinsons.
So, “Here’s to you, Mrs. Robinson”!