Pop-up book opened

Pop-up books combine handmade papercraft and three-dimensional design, used in fashion editorials to create luxurious settings and impactful visual narratives.

About this subject

Pop-up books, or three-dimensional books, are papercraft works that employ paper engineering techniques to create structures that rise when the page is opened. This art form dates back to the 13th century, with early examples in medieval manuscripts using flaps and rotations to illustrate astronomical and anatomical concepts. In the 20th century, artists like Vojtěch Kubašta and Robert Sabuda revolutionized the genre, introducing complex mechanisms such as gears, levers, and layered overlays.

In the fashion industry, pop-up books have found a place in high-fashion editorials, used as sets or props for campaigns by brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Dior. The technique allows creating fantastical environments without relying on computer graphics, valuing craftsmanship and exclusivity. Each fold and cut demands millimeter precision: paper engineers design in CAD software before laser or manual cutting.

Interestingly, pop-up books are also collector's items, with limited editions selling for thousands of dollars. The São Paulo Biennial has exhibited paper art pieces, and the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro holds a dedicated collection. In the editorial context, the combination with fashion explores contrasts between the tactile quality of paper and the ephemeral nature of trends, generating images that go viral on social media.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are pop-up books made?

Pop-up books are crafted by paper engineers who design cuts and folds in CAD software. Pages are laser-cut or hand-cut, and each piece is glued in layers to form the three-dimensional structure when the book is opened.

What is the relationship between pop-up books and fashion?

Fashion editorials use pop-up books as sets or props to create surreal and sophisticated images, emphasizing handcraft. Brands like Chanel and Prada have collaborated with paper artists for exclusive campaigns.

Who are the most famous pop-up book artists?

Robert Sabuda, Matthew Reinhart, and David A. Carter are renowned. In Brazil, artists like Elisa Carareto and Buuumm studio create pieces for editorials and exhibitions.