Zine's have recently become a popular output for designers and illustrators - not just for those of the political persuasion. In 2011, there are so many digital outlets such as blogs, Twitter, Facebook for example, where you can have your own voice so you might wonder why people still like to cut and stick their thoughts and images into a little book. However, with a rise in popularity Zine's have been given a designer's touch and are as appealing to the style-savvy as those who like to read the opinion's of others. You might even learn something! This book celebrates and showcases the more 'visually refined' of zines where artists and designers have started to experiment and update this medium which has long enjoyed a cult status. Some may also say that it is the impact of the recession that is promoting the 'make do and mend' attitude not only in crafts – but also in self-marketing and the arts.
The spot gloss cover and open spine give a shiny impression but it is the pastel pages which really caught my eye and really give the feel of zine. A jam-packed book full of inspirational projects, and some great examples of various print process make this a book I'd definitely recommend.
Behind the Zines: Self-Publishing Culture Editors: R. Klanten, A. Mollard, M. Hübner Publisher: Gestalten
