About Us
Transformation and appreciation
From Nancy Templeton:
The advent of technology has created wonderful advantages in providing access to the “information highway”. Kindle gives us an opportunity to read texts anytime, anywhere. But, as is the case with any “progress”, there will be casualties along the way. The beautiful hardback books with colorful embossing and cloth or leather bindings are now relegated to the dusty shelves of thrift stores or are dumped into landfills. My art form is one of transformation and appreciation. I carefully remove the pages and recycle them to other artists for their projects. Then, I make a box of recycled wood from cabinetmakers short pieces using machine and hand techniques. I replace the binding adding offset brass hinges and a rare earth magnet to ensure closure. These beautiful “relics” now serve a different purpose. You can conceal jewelry, money, passports, etc. in plain sight. No one will know that it isn’t what it appears to be. And, the original work of art can still be cherished.
Dear Nancy,
I must tell you, you are a true professional. I could not be happier with the bookbox you created from the "Heidi" book I sent you. Absolutely beautiful. You have made my Christmas with my granddaughter an extra special one to look forward to.
Thank you very much, Ed
Unique gifts
Looking for that perfect gift? Pick a favorite author or subject matter for a unique, one-of-a-kind gift. And a great secret hiding place too!
Useful
Need a place to keep remote controls? Use a Takota Bookbox. Looks great on your coffee table!
Takota Shows
Coming shows -- Come meet Nancy!
From a customer: “I have your Iberia book that my sister purchased for me at Mountain View. Friends can’t get over the craftsmanship. These can be addictive…”
Saratoga Fine Art Show--May 6-7 ( West Valley College)
Novato Art/Wine Festival--June 10-11
Los Altos Art/Wine Festival--July 8-9
Palo Alto Festival of the Arts--Aug. 26-27
Lafayette Art/Wine Festival--Sept. 23-24
San Carlos Art/Wine Faire--Oct. 7-8
Marin Arts & Crafts Show--Nov. 3-5 ( Marin Civic Center)
Crocker Holiday Artisan Market--Nov. 24-26 ( Scottish Rite Center, Sacramento)
Ongoing:
Nevada City Farmers Market, 8:30 am - 1 pm
5/27, 6/24, 7/22, 8/15, 9/9
More information on coming shows will be posted as available.
Note: Contact me for information on my current inventory. Custom orders are also still being accepted. Contact me for more information on custom orders - perfect for gifts.
FAQs
What kind of books do you have available?
We most often stock: Classics, Best sellers, Art, Cooking, Dogs/cats/pets, Gardening, Law, Medicine, Politics, Religion, Sports, Travel, Youth titles, and Misc. Contact us for current inventory. Harry Potter titles available.
Can I send you a book for a custom order?
Yes, you can bring it to a show (see schedule above) or contact us, then mail it to Takota,
PO Box 63, Cedar Ridge, CA 95924
What is the turnaround time for custom orders?
Please allow two weeks for custom orders.