How do I get an estimate for a restoration?
The best way to start the process is to email photos of the book to me. You should photograph the front and rear covers, the spine of the book, the inner gutter between the cover and the first page and any other damage you can see.
I do need to see a book or good photos to get an idea the level of damage the book might have. I do accurate estimates from good photos.
How long does it take to restore a book?
The turn-around time varies based on how much other work is in the shop. I will quote the estimated turnaround time but it often. averages 6-8 weeks or more. I do jobs in the order they come into the shop. If I have all the necessary materials on hand, I can turn things over faster.
My book is completely falling apart. Is it possible to restore something this bad?
Yes. You would be amazed at the condition some books are in when they come into the shop. Occasionally a book may need a complete new binding.
I watch Antiques Roadshow , will restoring my book decrease it’s value?
In the book world it is generally accepts books are meant to be used and so they get damaged. As long as the restoration work follows certain guidelines for materials, and processes, and pays attention to the style of the original binding, restorations will almost always increase the value of the book. Of course, a mint copy of a valuable book will always have a higher value than a restored copy, but suprisingly not much more, especially with rarer books.
The one exception to this restoration rule is modern first editions. For example, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” or Stephen King’s “Carrie”. Modern first editions are generally desired in mint condition with all the parts original, and with the original dust jacket.
I've looked around the Internet and the prices I get quoted for restoration are surprisingly quite different. Why is this so?
Repair and restoration of any book is a combination of the materials used, technical skills, art skills, methodology, materials and the equipment.
Based on my experience and knowledge of the trade, there are three main reasons why cost can vary.
First: The skill level of the restorer. It takes five to seven years to achieve master craftsman level skills. I believe the training and skills needed for book restoration are perhaps just a tad below those required of a fine art restorer.
Second: The cost of the materials. Genuine bookbinding leather and repair materials are pricy, and there are only a few suppliers of high quality materials.
Third: Doing the job the right way. I follow all the industry conservation standards. Every book gets the same level of attention, whether it is a children's book from 1970 or a rare scientific journal from 1570. I am not the least expensive restorer,, there are many others on the internet who can claim that honor, but I believe I am one of the best.