The general process of rebinding a bible: This series of steps is not exhaustive, but only meant to give an understanding of the general process (There are also variations depending on the individual project).
The word “rebinding” is in quotes, because it’s a misnomer. Typically when people refer to bible “rebinding”, they’re actually referring to rebacking or re-covering. While the binding of the text is sometimes dealt with here, typically we are replacing the cover, ribbons etc. This term has, for better or worse, become commonplace in bible communities within the greater bookbinding community, to refer to putting a new cover on a bible. Most seasoned bookbinders would find this phrasing a bit odd.
Step 1: Assessment
First, the bible is assessed (structural integrity, pages, general damage etc.)
Step 2: Cover Removal
Next, the old cover is carefully removed and the bible placed into a book press.
Step 3: Old Glue Removal
Next, the old glue and spine material is gently loosened, typically with steam or a paste called poulticeThe old glue and spine material is then carefully removed being sure not to damage the pages
Step 4: Spine work
After the leather liner has been added to the text-block, the ribbons are glued to the spine (just like Cambridge bibles)Then a material called “super” or “mull” is glued around the spine, giving it supreme durabilityThe decorative head/tail bands are then added to the top and bottom of the spineAnd lastly, a durable canvas material is added, giving still more strength, yet flexibility. Some other binderies use paper or cardboard which is inferior and will not last as long.
Step 5: Cover work
The same canvas material used on the spine is then cut to size to line the leather cover, giving increased strength. The edges of the leather are skived (thinned)After folding and gluing the edges, the corners are pleated by handAt this point tooled lines around the border may be put inTooled Lines or raised hubs will be worked into the spine
Step 6: The Finishing Work
Gold stamping or dry stamping (no color) will be placed where desiredThis is done using the old traditional method of hand-stamping with antique tools and brass letterpressOther decorative features such as gilt lines or border branding may be addedBefore & After
