Anonymous Bookbinder emphasizes conservation treatments and services, but it occasionally produces items that are for sale. This is not really as much a departure as it might at first sound.  As a matter of fact, it is very much in keeping with bookbinding tradition.

Historically, hand bookbinders engaged in a variety of activities to occupy the time between other jobs. (Of course, this was the case in small shops rather than in the large  commercial establishments that emerged in the second half of the 19th century.) Period advertisements suggest that bookbinders offered popular books in "extra" bindings, as well as decorative blank books, a variety of boxes, and non-book related leatherwork. One 18th century advertisement even includes paper hanging as an extra service, offered, we are assured, "at most reasonable prices." 

And if you need further reassurance, there is a wonderful story about two of the greatest 20th century book conservators, Roger Powell and Peter Waters, filling in a "dry period" by making gold-decorated leather napkin rings that proved unexpectedly popular in London department stores.  On another occasion, they produced some miniature models of a chained library, complete with tiny, illuminated leather books. (P. Waters, in Roger Powell: The Compleat Binder, 1996.)

So, when the conservation work is done, the anonymous bookbinder has a chance to exercise his more creative side, however modest it may be.

When these items are available, this page will feature an assortment of boxes, bindings and perhaps other things that may be of interest to the general public. 

[Sorry, no items available at present]