Find A Glue to hold your book together!
Yes, it can be hard to decide what kind of glue is best for repairing your precious book--but you've got me to help you!
I have repaired a great many torn pages and loose covers in my lifetime. Most of the books I am repairing belong to my grandchildren, but I have been known to repair cookbooks and study Bibles that belong to my closest friends. How did I get in this situation? In the recent past I was a librarian and I also volunteered in another local library when books needed mending. I learned from experience and I attended workshops. Both were valuable to develop my skill.
Book repair and care has become an important purpose in my life and, yes, I learn something new every day. My motto has become "Saving the world one book at a time". That is about all I can handle at the moment.
Image of the book needing a repair is mine. It is an actual book that I repaired.
I have repaired a great many torn pages and loose covers in my lifetime. Most of the books I am repairing belong to my grandchildren, but I have been known to repair cookbooks and study Bibles that belong to my closest friends. How did I get in this situation? In the recent past I was a librarian and I also volunteered in another local library when books needed mending. I learned from experience and I attended workshops. Both were valuable to develop my skill.
Book repair and care has become an important purpose in my life and, yes, I learn something new every day. My motto has become "Saving the world one book at a time". That is about all I can handle at the moment.
Image of the book needing a repair is mine. It is an actual book that I repaired.
The Glue I use to make book repairs:
I prefer to use a PVA (polyvinyl acetate) white glue. Elmer's School glue is an example.NOTE: I do not recommend using Elmer's School glue to make repairs.
Since real books appear to be going the way of the vinyl record, I suggest that you try to find an acid free glue. (Glues that are not acid free will eventually eat away the paper) It will be clearly stated on the label of the glue. If it is not, then assume the glue is not acid free.
PVA glue is a liquid. Not all the PVA glues are the same. Eileen's Tacky glue is thick and is just what it says--tacky or sticky. It is not easy to re-position paper with the original Tacky Glue. I find that a thick glue like this one is good to use for book cover repairs.
I like to use one of Brodart's book repair glues to pages that are torn. It can be thinned with water if you find it too thick to use easily. The glue I have on hand right now is not acid free, but I will be replacing it.
NOTE: PVA glues are permanent and cannot be reversed once they dry.
If you are really trying to be environmentally correct, you need to use a methylcellulose glue. It is a powder that you mix with water. This kind of glue is usually used with japanese paper when repairing a torn page.
A repair made with this kind of glue is reversible and flexible. I have heard of some people mixing the two glues to make the PVA easier to handle and extend the drying time--gives you a longer time to work. Click Keen Stuff: Mixing Methyl Cellulose and PVA for a tutorial.
I have also learned that all of the Elmer's Glue stick products are acid free. You can find that information here: Elmer's Glue FAQ.
My sources: http://cailun.info/archives/200-PVA-and-Methylcellulose.html and typesofglue.com
(image is of me repairing a book cover for my grand-daughter)
Buy Brodart Acid Free Glue:
I have used Bind-Art Adhesive and like it. I have a small container that I squeeze the glue into. I apply the glue with a brush or a bamboo toothpick or skewer.
Recently, I discovered a page on the internet that has a recipe for glue that I want to try. Here is the link: Methyl Cellulose and Sobo. I will let you know how it works.
Recently, I discovered a page on the internet that has a recipe for glue that I want to try. Here is the link: Methyl Cellulose and Sobo. I will let you know how it works.
Or Purchase Methyl Cellulose Adhesive
The repairs you make with this kind of glue can be reversed in the future if need be. Conservators prefer this kind of glue as it does the least harm to valuable texts.
Lineco Methyl Cellulose Adhesive 1 1/2 oz. bottle
Amazon Price: $5.40 (as of 05/30/2012)
Glue for You?
Adhesive questions welcomed.
I should remind you that I am not a restorer of books. I leave restoration to those more qualified than myself. I am merely sharing my own experiences with repairing books in my own home and for my friends.
On other pages that I have here on Squidoo, I have links to those professionals that I have heard are good. I have not used a professional to fix any of my books. To some of my friends, I am considered a pro, but I repeat here, I am not. I just have real answers to real problems I have face.
Note to you the reader: have plenty of waxed paper on hand to make your repairs.
How do you feel about repairing real paper books? Let me know. Thanks and do not forget to give me a thumbs up!
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paperfacets Feb 2, 2012 @ 1:38 pm | delete
- I would definitely repair my own books. If I had a first edition or something that is worth many dollars, I would use a professional. Thanks for these glue tips. I use my share of it.
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SaintFrantic
Oct 6, 2011 @ 3:08 pm | delete
- Very good Lens.Thanks for the hard work.
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Tracy Lamphere, Grimm Book Bindery, Inc.
Sep 20, 2011 @ 9:29 am | delete
- Great information coming from an individual not "in the business". I see so much online that makes me cringe it's nice seeing information from someone who has obviously done their homework. Again, great information for the at home person to use. Thanks and kudos to you! Tracy Lamphere, Bindery Manager, Grimm Book Bindery, Inc.
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AndyUK
May 4, 2012 @ 4:41 pm | delete
- HI There. I don't know if you can get it in the States but I've found an excellent glue. It's made by Bostik and called 'No More Nails - Wood Adhesive' it's very strong (and I do mean very) but is flexible when dry. ideal for both binding signature (even without stitching) and gluing in end papers
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More Book Repair and Care Pages by Mickie_G
I have several pages here on Squidoo where I offer information on Book Care and Repair. One lens has the basics and some simple how to's; two others feature ways you can repurpose books when they can not be repaired.
If you cannot tell, I love books and I want them in my life and in my descendants' lives, too.
If you cannot tell, I love books and I want them in my life and in my descendants' lives, too.
About Me
Gluing an old book:
glue repairs made by me, Mickie_G
Gluing the spine of a paperback cookbook.
This So Crafty page written by
Mickie_G
One of my purposes in life is to "Save the World, One Book At a Time". Please do your part. Research and use the proper glue for the job. Thanks.
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Quick Links to Book Repair Information:
Check out this excellent resource for book repairs!
Books, Their Care and Repair: Their Care and Repair
Amazon Price: $39.95 (as of 05/30/2012)
