Bookbinding: Its Background and Technique

by Edith Diehl

Mammoth volume by one of the world's foremost practitioners. Both historical survey emphasizing decorated bindings, and eminently practical guide to hand bookbinding. 93 plates, 242 figures.

Genres: Nonfiction, Art, History, Crafts, Reference, Books About Books

653 pages, Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1946

Reviews

[Robert Romberger]

Bookbinding 1 & 2 in One volume

Historically speaking, this two volume set fares well. Unfortunately, the techniques that are discussed suffer from both time and a lack of clear diagrams. In some instances, I had to look up some of the terms being used as they are no longer referred to as they're used in this book - "tins" and "zincs" for instance were used as cutting surfaces, but modern cutting surfaces are not referred to as these metal surfaces are. Another issue I had was with the editorial comments throughout this book. Claiming that a binding is of an elegant design while another is gaudy without having pictures of them had me confused on more than one occasion. Once past the dated dialogue, I was able to get quite a bit of valuable research and helpful hints that will make my own bindings better.

[Richard Brand]

It is a very easy to read, comprehensive discussion of the work of book binders from the beginning of that work until about l945. It was a great read for me as I resume my interest in this hobby.