Decorative Tools

Finishing tools encompass an array of shapes and sizes. Made of brass or bronze, tools can be cut from a metal sheet with files and chisels or cast in a metal mold. When used, the tool is heated and then impressed on a binding, either directly on the leather (a blind finishing) or over gold leaf. A wooden handle protects the finisher’s hands from the heat of the tool and provides leverage. Some tools take the form of rolls and can be wheeled over the surface of a binding; others are stamp-like blocks that need to be impressed repeatedly. A pallet has a flared, fishtail-shaped tip that is used on a book’s spine or back.

On display is a decorative roll with a long handle used for a continuous border design; an ornamental tool for repeated single use; a curved pallet; and a center tool used on the corners and center of covers, and on spines. The example book cover is finished blind and with gold leaf. The video at right shows how these tools are used.