From the smallest paper repair to a major conservation project, our skilled staff are here to help.

We conserve all manner of items including leather, books, velum, maps, pamphlets and other documents.

All work is documented and a copy supplied to the client for future reference.

We can also provide bespoke storage boxes and slip cases to protect and prevent further damage to the restored items.

All our work is carried out to archival standards and only archival materials are used in our processes. 

16th Century Book Restoration

We received a series of hand-written, 16th century books from a Special Collections library for repair.

The books were originally fast back style and the leather was acidic.

The paper had become very brittle at the bound edge and the pages no longer in a condition

that they could be opened without causing further damage.

The Process

We started by hand numbering the pages, to ensure correct collation, and stripped down the books, ready to be collated into sections. The pages were then re-joined together into 8pp sections, as original, using hand-made Japanese tissue and wheat starch paste, which allows us to then fold ready for sewing.

The folded and collated sections were then hand-sewn on to 4 hemp cords. We then rounded and jointed the books and lined the spine with Japanese tissue using an Oxford hollow and reversible PVA.

The Finished Article

The books were then re-backed in calf skin, with 5 raised bands, tooled and 2 leather title pieces added

to match the original binding style.

The books can now be opened and enjoyed again for many years to come!