Bookmatching is an interesting concept in the world of interior design. While it has been trending in recent years, we can find its traces in numerous ancient architectures. This brilliant technique allows you to create magnificent impressions with the natural veining or patterns of stone surfaces. In this blog, we are going to learn everything about bookmatching so that you can also create artistic statements for your interior projects.
What is Bookmatching?
It is a technique in which two or more natural or engineered stone surfaces are placed side by side so that they mirror each other’s patterns, just like an opened book. The veins of both slabs meet together and create a beautiful harmonious pattern that can breathe life into any space.
When four slabs are used to create a mirrored image, it is called a quad match.
The Process of Creating Bookmatched Patterns
Bookmatching requires tremendous precision and care. It starts with bringing large blocks of natural stones from quarries to processing plants only to cut them into slabs with gang saws; the cutting process is much like how a loaf of bread is cut into slices. The slabs are then laid flat and polished on opposite sides.
Polishing the slabs helps bring out the stone’s intricate patterns and other characteristics. When these polished slabs are placed adjacent to each other, they create a kaleidoscopic reflection of one another, like an opened book.
What Is a Slip Match Pattern?
Slip match is when two slabs are placed in a way that they offer a continuous flow of the veining patterns. Unlike bookmatched slabs, slip matched slabs are cut and polished on the same side.
Not All Kinds of Stones Can Be Bookmatched
Creating the impression of open-book patterns can not be achieved with all kinds of materials. Stones with a strong movement of veins can only be bookmatched into a breathtaking piece of art. Some of the most popular stones for this technique are marble, granite, onyx, quartzite, travertine, porcelain slabs, and quartz.
What is more interesting is that you can use translucent stones like onyx to create bookmatched statements with backlighting, allowing their ethereal illuminance to magnify the allure of mirrored veined surfaces. As the LED light illuminates the stone’s crystals, its soft glow infuses a sense of tranquility into the ambiance.
Give Your Interiors a Quirky Twist
Bookmatched stones with stunning mirrored patterns offer unique visuals. We can see its applications in many luxury hotels, houses, or other spaces where it serves as an attraction. You can use this pattern for accent walls, fireplace surrounds, large islands, bar tops, pool surrounds, and even patios. However, its true essence of bookmatching comes out when it is displayed in a large area where it catches everyone’s attention. Hence, we would suggest you to avoid using this technique in areas with little space.
Tips to Maintain the Glory of a Bookmatched Piece
While having a bookmatched story can be a game-changer for your interiors, it is essential to care for these stones in order to maintain their brilliance for a lifetime. The amount of maintenance required for your stone surfaces is determined by the type of stones you choose. Natural stones such as marble, quartzite, travertine, granite, or onyx require more care as compared to engineered stone surfaces.
It is always best to clean your stone surfaces on a regular basis with a pH-balanced stone cleanser or mild soap water and a soft cloth. Some stones are sensitive to acids and other chemical compounds and can develop etches when they come into contact with them. Additionally, make sure to use trivets or coasters for bookmatched countertops.
Natural stones require sealing from time to time so as to maintain their distinct characteristics. These are general practices that can help keep your stone surfaces in pristine condition.
It Is Worth the Cost
Creating a work of art using the natural flow of veins in stone surfaces is not as easy as it seems; the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Moreover, labor is often more expensive than the material. Yet, what makes having a bookmatched feature worthwhile is the extraordinary visuals that this piece may produce, transforming the overall aesthetic of your property.
To know more about Ultra Stone’s complete product selection, visit https://ultrastones.com/
Are you too looking for some unique bookmatching inspiration for your house? You are at the right place! We can help you transform your vision into reality. Ultra Stones takes pride in being a premier stone supplier, bringing a diverse selection of bookmatched stone products and other surfacing materials to give wings to your creative ideas.
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