The Craft of Bookbinding : A Practical Handbook

David & Charles, third impression, 1983. Quarter cloth and boards, 8vo, 24 cm,. 400 pp, 8 pp colour plates, numerous ills. From the blurb: "The first fully comprehensive book on an ancient craft which is stili practised despite the many new mechanised techniques. To achieve the best possible results the amateur and even the professional bookbinder need the expert advice on each precise and intricate detail of the process. Mr Burdett covers every aspect of the subject from simple bindings and repairs to the advanced and complicated work involved in fine bindings of full leather gold tooled and with leather outlays and inlays. Detailed instructions are given on how to do it and the full explanations make the work ali the more interesting. Advice is given on equipping a workshop and the use and care of tools and equipment together with possible improvisation. There are chapters on Cover Design, miscellaneous 'deviations from pure bookbinding' such as single section and also unsewn bindings, slip cases and book boxes, etc. All the materials used such as adhesives, bookcloths and leathers, paper and boards, gold leaf and stamping foils are discussed in detail. Over 100 diagrams amplify the text and more than sixty photographs, some in colour, illustrate the progressive stages of the craft and provide examples of contemporary fine bindings by eminent and 'up and coming' bookbinders. There is also a glossary, list of supply sources, a detailed bibliography, and a comprehensive index." Principal contents: Preface; Introduction; 1 Preparatory Work; 2 Forwarding; 3 Covering; 4 Finishing; 5 Cover Design; 6 Miscellaneous Items; 7 Repairs To Books; 8 Materials; Glossary; Sources of Supply; Bibliography; Index. Very Good in used and slightly worn dustwrapper.