Heather has been practicing bookbinding for 7 years. She ran a part-time business in West Virginia called A Stitch in Time Bookbindery while working full-time as a middle school art teacher. In 2020 Heather retired from teaching, moved to Columbus and started the entrepreneurial venture of Armaria Bookbindery.

Her experiences in the creative field includes a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture and a Masters in Art Education. She spent 15 years in the profession of art education including two years abroad in Thailand teaching elementary art at a private American school. During her period as a teacher, she attended bookbinding classes to share with her students. It was during this time she was introduced to retired bookbinder Julie Schleier. Their relationship developed into a mentorship, educating Heather on the many aspects of book conservation restoration. Julie studied bookbinding under several renowned bookbinders including Catherine Burkhard. Julie owned and operated a successful bookbindery out of Dallas, Texas for many years until she retired in 2016. In addition to apprenticing with Julie, Heather has furthered her studies by attending workshops and classes at American Academy of Bookbinding in Telluride, North Bennett Street School in Boston, Cat Tail Run Bookbinding, Historic Sugartown Virtual workshop and San Francisco Center for the Book online class. This is a field of study that takes a lifetime of mastery and learning.

When Heather is not working in the studio, she enjoys spending time with family and her two dogs. Heather also likes to dabble in the arts whether it is painting, drawing or anything that allows her creative exploration. She finds her peace being outdoors kayaking, hiking or taking a quiet walk at the local metro park.