During Rufus King’s life, books were very precious, and Rufus’ huge collection of almost 4000 books was very important to him. Many of those books were decorated with something called “paper marbling” which created mesmerizing swirl patterns on covers and cover pages. Using common household items, we will simulate the historic process of paper marbling and use it to make stationary, bookmarks, or just beautiful works of art! Also enjoy a live demonstration of historic ink making, with a question and answer period afterward.

Participants will need:

• Shaving cream (foaming, non-gel type) OR whipped cream (from a tub or can)

• Food coloring OR acrylic paint OR tempera paint

• Paper of your choice

• Pencil OR popsicle stick OR fork

• A piece of smooth, stiff cardboard/paper (like a business card or piece of a box)