About this project

PERIODS.

They help us keep in touch with our bodies, bond us with our fellow bleeders, track time and cyclical changes, and create relief, panic, surprise and frustration. They also lead to some embarrassing stories and moments of delight. And even though periods are natural and normal, they get a bad reputation for being gross, annoying and inconvenient.

Today, periods are going mainstream: NPR dubbed 2015 the year of the period and Newsweek called 2016 the year of menstrual change.

As a public health practitioner and sexual health advocate, I wanted to create the Period Coloring Book as a way to embrace, celebrate and reflect upon our shared experiences with menstruation. 

From leaks, cramps, cups and pads to period sex and free bleeding, this book aims to help start more open and positive conversations about periods. Get ready for 30+ pages of illustrations for your coloring pleasure.

Show a little period love by backing the Period Coloring Book! Shout outs on your favorite social networks are always appreciated ;)

Some sample images from the book:

Tell me more!

Who are you?

I am a public health practitioner, design strategist and bleeder who started my career as a sexual health educator in Calgary, Canada. I am passionate about promoting sexual health and preventing sexual violence through the power of knowledge, empowerment and choice. I'm based in Toronto and NYC.

How do I use this book?

Color in solitude or with others, it’s up to you. I recommend coloring in the company of your best buds so you can have some straight up period talk. Did someone say period coloring book party? ;)  

How did you come up with this idea?

This has been a personal project for me. After speaking with some friends, I realized that there wasn’t a lot of conversation out there about people’s lived experiences with periods, so I started to illustrate these moments. As I began to show illustrations to people, I found that they would spark intimate conversations about periods. I hope that the book can be a fun way to help people reflect upon and talk about their own experiences with menstruation.

What kind of topics do you cover in the book and how did you come up with them?

I came up with topics mostly by talking to people who have or have had periods, my personal experiences, and online conversations and research. Topics? Everything from cramps, bloating, PMS, period poops, menopause, pads, period underwear, tampons, period showers…to the experience of using tampons, managing periods and period leaks.

Can I expect a little nudity?

Yes! Nudity is classy and intentional.

What are the specs of the book?

I plan to create a softcover book: 6”x9” and 30+ pages of illustrations.

How will you spend the money you raise on IndieGogo?

Production: Printing and shipping the book.

What are the risks/challenges of this project?

Though many pages are done, the book is still a work in progress: I will edit it and replace/add illustrations. I welcome your ideas too: Email me at hello@andrealyip.com. Following that, I'll be working with a printer and prepping the books to ship out to you. I don't anticipate any major road blocks but will keep you informed if anything comes up.

What is your timeline?

November '16: IndieGogo Campaign!

December '16: Edit/add images

January '17: Finalize book design

February '17: Print the book and get it ready to ship

March '17: Shipments out!

Are you working with anyone on this?

I have been working closely with my partner, Wojciech, who is helping me manage the 'behind-the-scenes' logistics of this campaign. There have also been a lot of AMAZING folks who have been supportive of this project. From advice to feedback to taking photos to writing articles, thank you!

Where can I read more about this project?

We've been covered in Teen Vogue, The Huffington Post, HuffPo UK, Clue, Bustle, Thinx, MetroUK, The Independent and Hello Giggles.

Questions?

If you have any questions about the project or if you have ideas or suggestions of ways to collaborate please get in touch.  You can email Andrea at hello@andrealyip.com.