The binding of manuscripts (books) became widespread in the Western world around the 4th century AD. Initially, gatherings of pages were sewn by hand, a process that by the 12th century began to be assisted by wooden frames.
Once the sewing was complete, the pages were further secured at the spine using adhesives derived from animal hides and scraps. The bound text block was then reinforced with wooden boards, attached to the book using sewing supports called cords (nervi). These boards were subsequently covered with leather, often decorated according to the status of the book's intended recipient. This is, in very simplified terms, the history of the bookbinding process.
Through our collaboration with the Opificium Association, which recreates medieval crafts from the 12th and 13th centuries, we have developed a deep appreciation for this fascinating, inventive historical world.
Our role is educational, and together with Opificium, we participate in medieval markets where our presence is requested.