In this 2¾hr tutorial video, one of the UK’s most highly regarded book conservators demonstrates how to repair a typical Victorian cloth-covered case binding.
Every bookbinder will, at some point, be presented with a broken and battered cloth-covered case binding. Some will encounter them on a weekly basis. In this tutorial video Arthur Green demonstrates a contemporary approach to the repair of such volumes.
Gone are the days when every binder could sensibly maintain a comprehensive stock of antique bookcloth from which they could choose a matching example to repair a book. So, an alternative solution is required, and Arthur has developed a simple and sympathetic technique involving high quality linen and toned Japanese papers.
It’s a carefully considered process ensuring the retention of as much of the original structure and materials as possible. This modus operandi is born of Arthur’s background in conservation and his painstaking research into antique book structures, some of which he shares here in a brief history of cloth bindings.
Tools, materials and other supplies are fully specified, and many invaluable insights and tips revealed during the tutorial. Also discussed is the balance of analytical assessment and scientific repair techniques vs. the needs of the individual volume and its projected future use.
Throughout, Arthur’s love of books and his enthusiasm for his work are clear, and his willingness to share his knowledge and experience make this video an invaluable resource for any bookbinder.
Duration: 2 hours 43 minutes | English subtitles available
Arthur Green is an independent book conservator who owns and runs Green’s Books Ltd. in Ledbury, UK. Since gaining a Post Graduate Diploma in Conservation from Camberwell College of Arts in 2008, he has worked at institutions including the Leather Conservation Centre, The British Library, Oxford Conservation Consortium, and Oxford University’s Bodleian Library. Arthur has published and lectured widely on the history of bookbinding.