Introduction to conservation
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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
- Start Date: 21 Jul 2025End Date: 23 Jul 2025This course is fullMon-Wed (Daytime): 10:30 - 16:30In PersonFull fee £229.00 Senior fee £183.00 Concession £149.00
- Start Date: 20 Jul 2026End Date: 22 Jul 2026Mon-Wed (Daytime): 10:30 - 16:30In PersonFull fee £229.00 Senior fee £183.00 Concession £149.00
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What is the course about?
This three day course will introduce you to the process of book conservation using a range of useful techniques.
What will we cover?
We will try out simple paper dry cleaning and repair techniques, cleaning and colouring cloth, board corner repairs and make a protective phase box. We will also discuss the difference between conservation and restoration and look at a range of historical examples of binding styles.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Explain the difference between conservation and restoration
- Recognise several binding styles
- Undertake safe dry cleaning of paper and cloth
- Undertake simple paper repairs
- Dye cloth to match a chosen colour
- Reinforce and repair damaged book board.
- Use a range of tools and materials safely and correctly.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is suitable for those with no experience of book conservation, and those looking to refresh their skills and knowledge. Bookbinding experience will be useful but not essential.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught by demonstration, hands on learning tasks, and group discussion.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You are asked to bring a cloth bound book in need of some repair, please contact the department if you need further guidance on this.
Please also bring an apron, notebook, a sharp pencil and a plastic eraser.
We will not be repairing leather bound books but you are very welcome to bring some along for the class to look at and discuss. All other materials are provided.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
VD202 Book Conservation and repair: Cloth bound books
VD203 Book Conservation and repair: leather-bound books.
Nesta is a professional bookbinder and runs her own studio, Leafwork, in Dorset, where she lives. She has taught in the Bookbinding department of City Lit for many years, teaching subjects from Book Conservation through to Artists' Books. She particularly likes introducing new students to bookbinding through the Try-It-Out sessions. "It's so satisfying to meet some of them again, profressing and developing on further courses and becoming creative, confident bookbinders." In her studio she teaches small workshops and 1:1, and frequently afound ghe country for the Society of Bookbinders, Designer Bookbinders and many other groups, particularly textile artists. Nesta loves the tactile opportunites possible in bookbinding and finds using texture almost irresistible in her own work. Her bindings are held in private and public collections, including the British Library, the National Library of Scotland, the John Rylands University Library Manchester and the Grolier Club, New York.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.