Rounded and Backed Books

Rounded and Backed Books
Historic Techniques in Bookbinding

Course Overview

Rounding involves moulding the spine of a text block into an arc of approximately one-third of a circle, which in the process produces a concave fore edge. After a book is rounded it can be glued and lined to maintain its shape or it can be backed first. Backing involves manipulating the long edges of the rounded spine so that they form a ridge or shoulder on each side of the spine. As a result, if viewed from above, the shape of the spine resembles the cross section of a muffin or a mushroom. The processes help to make the book more robust and durable.

In this workshop we will start by discussing the basic principles of bookbinding and proceed to produce a rounded book. The process of backing will also be demonstrated. We will sew the book over straps, learn the techniques necessary to produce the shaped spine, add decorative endpapers and then sew headbands. Finally we will make a cover from book cloth and grey board.

The courses take place in a studio/small press on Bircher Common, which is a National Trust site in rural Herefordshire. It's a great location to go for a walk or have a picnic during the lunch break. Lunch and all material costs are included.

Suitability

  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
  • Advanced

Cost

£250

Duration

2 days

Venue

Bircher Common Press

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Booking Info

Go to Bircher Common Press website to book

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