How to Operate a Book
How to operate a book? Well, there are some instructive pictures about opening a new book. This video, however, tackles the subject of the physical structure of books, from the medieval manuscript codex to the modern paperback.
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Binding the Booker – A Short BBC Documentary on Bookbinding
Every year six bindings are made by Fellows of Designer Bookbinders. 2018 wasn't an exception. In this video, Angela James, a Fellow and former President of the society, talks about the process, and about her own work.
One of the Largest and Most Expensive Bird Books Displayed at Liverpool Library
Birds of America by John James Audubon was published as a series in sections between 1827 and 1838. The work consists of 435 hand-colored, life-size prints. They are made from engraved plates, measuring 99 x 66 cm (39" x 26".)
A Bit More About Dos Rapporté Binding From Ben Elbel
Last week I posted a review of a new tutorial offered by the project Bookbinding Out of The Box. I just wanted to give you an update. Ben Elbel posted a video where he talks about this style and about his book.
Tutorial: Sewing an Endband On One Core in Two Colors
Sherif Afifi just published a new video tutorial dedicated to sewing a two-color endband on one core. It isn't a fast-paced video, so you'll have a chance to see all the details of the process.
Repairing an Endband
This video made me curious: how do you set a book when sewing an endband? Here the book is set with the spine facing the bookbinder. I was told to put it the other way around. Please join the conversation!
How I Found a Composing Stick (and Much More) in Copenhagen
This is a post about the flea markets of Copenhagen, printing tools, and airport security. Initially, I just wanted to share some things I bought while visiting the capital of Denmark this weekend, but it grew to be so much more.
Employees of Biblioteca Angelica Demonstrate a Book that Opens Six Different Ways
This 17th-century dos-a-dos structure opens in six directions. The video gives an idea of the beauty and refined technique with which this artifact was created. It is a true masterpiece of printing and bookbinding crafts.
600 Years of the Turkish Tradition of Marbling
Artist Steve Pittelkow speaks about the history of marbling or Ebru, as it was invented by Turks some 600 years ago. This video also shows the main steps of the process and tools used for marbling.
What Does it Take to Make the Thinnest Sheet of Paper?
Super thin paper made by Hidaka Washi Ltd. is used by museums and other institutions all over the world for conservation and restoration projects. But the technology of production dates back a thousand years.
10 Things That Terrify Archivists
I like when a serious issue is approached with a sense of humor. But it seems to me the list is not full. Non-reversible adhesives should be added to the list, along with self-made repairs, and some other nightmarish things. However, that may be more of conservator's peeves, not archivist's.
Boeken in de Bavo – The Annual Book Market in Haarlem
Went to Haarlem today for the annual book market - Boeken in de Bavo. The market itself is quite nice, 75 sellers (or something like that), quite a diverse choice of books. But what's makes this fair really special is the astonishing location!
Ken Sanders – Rare Books Seller and Stolen Books Detective
Ken Sanders tells his story of becoming a book detective while being a rare books seller for most of his life. One time he had to chase a book thief for three years to prepare the final sting and put him to jail.
Friends of Quentin Blake at the Museum Meermanno
Every once in a while the Museum Meermanno in the Hague (The Netherlands) brings a new temporary exhibition. This time they show the works of Quentin Blake, an artist, who had illustrated multiple books, including stories by the world-famous author Roald Dahl.
The Person Behind Book, Passport and Other Paper Props in the Movies
Ross MacDonald has led a secret double life for many years. While he was writing humor pieces and making illustrations for periodicals, he was also making paper-related props for over 40 movies.
