Contemporary Bookbinding · Bespoke Box Making · Letterpress Printing · Fine Stationery
Welcome to Forme contre forme, a contemporary Fine Paper Studio located in Bordeaux, near Jardin Public (Nouvelle-Aquitaine), France, dedicated to the metamorphosis of paper through contemporary bookbinding, bespoke box making and traditional printing techniques, including letterpress printing, hot foil stamping and risograph printing.
Founded by Alexandrine Thore, graphic designer and certified Artisan d’Art, the studio combines graphic design, material research and refined craftsmanship to create singular paper objects that unite beauty, functionality and durability.
Every project is conceived with precision and sensitivity to materials. Paper, board, cloth and ink are carefully selected and transformed by hand into bespoke creations for artists, cultural institutions, independent brands and private clients.
Whether developing a handcrafted notebook, an artist’s book, a presentation box or a complete stationery collection, the studio celebrates the richness of paper through contemporary design and traditional French craftsmanship.
What is a Fine Paper Studio?
A Fine Paper Studio is a creative workshop dedicated to the design and handcrafted production of refined and singular paper objects.
Combining graphic design, traditional craftsmanship and carefully selected materials, each creation is conceived as a lasting object that values both functionality and beauty.
At Forme contre forme, every commission begins with a dialogue. From the first sketch to the final handcrafted piece, each project is developed with care to create meaningful and enduring objects.
Signature Craftsmanship
Forme contre forme is the culmination of several years of practice in graphic design, fine printing, prototyping and hand-finishing.
Each project is approached with precision and sensitivity to materials. Paper, board, cloth and ink are carefully selected and shaped into durable and meaningful objects.
The studio specialises in a wide range of traditional and contemporary paper crafts.
Contemporary bookbinding
Handcrafted notebooks, artist books, portfolios, guest books and bespoke bindings combining traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics.
Bespoke box making
Presentation boxes, clamshell boxes, slipcases, archival boxes and custom-made packaging designed to protect and enhance precious objects.
Letterpress printing
Traditional relief printing using vintage presses to create tactile impressions with remarkable depth and elegance.
Hot Foil Stamping
Hand-applied foil stamping adding refined metallic or pigmented details to books, boxes and fine stationery.
Risograph printing
A vibrant and environmentally conscious printing process ideal for artist editions, posters, publications and creative projects.
Paper and cloth marquetry
A signature technique of the studio, combining coloured papers and bookbinding cloths to create unique graphic compositions inspired by geometry, architecture and contemporary design.
Each creation reflects a dialogue between traditional craftsmanship, contemporary design and carefully selected materials. Discover the techniques behind the studio’s work.
Bespoke Projects
Every commission is entirely tailored to the client’s needs.
The studio collaborates with artists, architects, publishers, museums, cultural institutions, luxury brands, independent businesses and private clients looking for handcrafted paper objects made in France.
Bespoke work may include:
- Artist books
- Limited editions
- Luxury presentation boxes
- Fine stationery collections
- Bespoke notebooks
- Guest books
- Portfolios
- Keepsake boxes
- Archival boxes
- Custom packaging
- Creative brand presentations
International collaborations are warmly welcomed.
Fine Stationery
Alongside bespoke commissions, the studio creates refined stationery collections inspired by traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.
Discover:
Handbound notebooks
Discover handcrafted notebooks combining traditional bookbinding techniques with contemporary design, created for writing, sketching, travelling and everyday inspiration.
- Leather Notebooks
- Writing Notebooks
- Sketchbooks
- Watercolour Sketchbooks
Correspondence stationery
Explore bespoke correspondence stationery combining traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, including letterheads, handcrafted envelopes and correspondence cards.
- Letterheads
- Bespoke Envelopes
- Correspondence Cards
Guest books & albums
Discover handcrafted guest books and albums combining traditional bookbinding with contemporary design to preserve life’s most meaningful moments.
Presentation Boxes & Desk Accessories
Explore bespoke presentation boxes and refined desk accessories, handcrafted using traditional techniques with a contemporary approach to design.
- Desk Organisers
- Document Holders
- Presentation Folders
- Pencil Holders
- Notepad & Memo Holders
Life Event Stationery
Discover bespoke stationery collections for weddings, births, baptisms and other celebrations, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
- Wedding Stationery
- Birth Stationery
- Baptism Stationery
- Correspondence Stationery
- Greeting Cards
- Occasion Cards (Birthdays, Love & Celebrations)
Artisan Editions & Fine Printing
Discover artist editions and bespoke printed works combining traditional printing techniques with contemporary graphic design, including letterpress, hot foil stamping and risograph printing.
Each object is produced in small quantities using carefully selected papers and premium materials.
Creative Workshops in Bordeaux
Looking for a unique creative experience during your stay in Bordeaux?
Forme contre forme offers intimate workshops introducing participants to traditional French paper crafts in a welcoming studio located near the Jardin Public.
These sessions invite participants to explore:
- Contemporary bookbinding techniques
- Bespoke box making
- Letterpress printing
- Risograph printing
- Paper marquetry
Workshops are available for adults, children and professionals and private groups seeking a refined and immersive creative experience.
Private sessions, team-building activities and creative birthday workshops are available upon request.
Online Boutique
The online boutique presents a curated collection of handcrafted creations made in Bordeaux.
Discover:
- Handbound notebooks
- Fine stationery
- Artisan greeting cards
- Bespoke boxes
- Personalised paper objects
Each piece is handcrafted using traditional techniques and carefully selected materials.
Journal
The journal offers a glimpse behind the scenes of the studio.
Explore articles about craftsmanship, creative processes, materials, traditional techniques and current projects that shape the everyday life of the atelier.
It reflects the philosophy of Forme contre forme: slowing down, honouring materials and transforming paper into enduring objects.
Visit the Studio
The atelier is located in Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and creative craftsmanship.
Studio visits are available by appointment only.
Whether you wish to discuss a bespoke commission, participate in a workshop or simply discover the world of contemporary paper craftsmanship, you are welcome to get in touch.
Contact
Forme contre forme
Fine Paper Studio in Bordeaux, France
For bespoke enquiries, workshop bookings, collaborations or international projects, please use the contact form.