maarble OG

Maarble is the small bookbinding workshop of Anna Weninger (38) and Anja Schwendenwein (39) in the Neutorgasse of Graz – and the name already reveals how much thought work is involved in their business. In English, "marble" means both marble, a reference to the marble paper that is still used for fine endpapers in the bookbinding workshop, and marble, a symbol for something small, fine, and unique. And since there are two creative minds behind the label, maarble is spelled with a double A – for Anna and Anja. Paper is said to be patient, they say. Bookbinders are too, as you quickly learn at maarble: until pages are edge to edge, sections are stitched, endpapers and headbands are glued, book covers are covered and embossed in front of you, and the glue has dried, hours can sometimes pass. The result: brochures, folders, boxes, slipcases, and other custom creations with a very special aesthetic. Books are still being bound, such as art books or limited special editions. Also frequently in the order book are menus and drink lists for upscale gastronomy and hospitality.

In a wooden chest of drawers that Anna's father specially built, a collection of movable metal type is stored. In the shelves, papers of various weights and colors are stacked, along with linen fabrics for the covers. With the hefty old cover cutter, various materials are cut to millimeter precision. A gluing machine is also part of the equipment: A roller dips into the glue bath and distributes the glue evenly on paper or linen. Both bookbinders originally come from graphic design and chose the bookbinding apprenticeship only later in their educational paths. "I missed the tactile, the analog," Anna explains her decision. A particular strength of the duo lies in their view for the big picture. "The combination with graphics is what’s exciting," Anja enthuses about the bridge they are now able to build between the two worlds.

Special Feature:
We provide advice, answer questions about design and material choices, and develop solutions that work both visually and technically. At the interface between design and production.