Book restoration

[shovetheholly]

I really fancy getting into this.

I have a set of old leather books coming that are in a bit of a state. They were bought from a charity shop, and they are an edition I really want to own. So even if they arrive and are in a sorry way, it will still be a donation to a good cause and something I will love and treasure.

However, they are in a lovely leather binding from the late 1820s/early 1830s. Spines and stitchwork look intact and the books look generally tight (they haven't arrived yet so I'm not 100% sure). However, it looks a bit like some disrespectful, philistine idiot has used them as a dustsheet while decorating, so there are splashes of what looks like paint on the covers. (Yes, really). Binding is full leather, so I'm hoping I can find something that removes the stain without damaging the book itself.

Don't worry - I am not going to go splashing household products on them! I intend to get some advice (paid) from an actual conservator, but I can't afford to have the whole set restored and I quite fancy doing it myself if I can.

Is there anyone else interested in conservation/restoration work of this kind?

There are quite a few adult education classes on book restoration, depending on your area of course. I know someone near Brighton.

I'm in Sheffield, unfortunately! Would love to do a course!

There are lots of book restoration courses around, try asking at your local archives as a starting point.

Thanks so much for the advice - I found a workshop near me for £65, and plan to go later in September!

That's great - you'll have fun, a new skill, and a beautiful set of books. And you're inspiring me to do a class too, up North of you.

Ok, silly question, but: I've never done a class like this before.

I feel kind of nervous about it. I've emailed the woman who organises it to ask whether my project is appropriate, just in case.

I worry that I will be no good at it, or mess up and hold everyone back. There is a place that does sewing lessons just up the road from me and I've never dared go in and ask about joining in. I just walk by pretending I am looking in the window but really trying to pluck up courage to go in.

It'll be fine, these classes are usually casual and about you working on personal projects. It just might be a bit advanced to start with so you may do some easy pieces to start

It sounds totally appropriate, and she'd be a bit daft ( as would the sewing lady )not to cater for beginners !