Many commissions
that bookbinders undertake are for private individuals who want a unique
binding of
a treasured text for their own personal
delight or as a special gift. What could make a more inspired and personal
gift? The pleasure and excitement of commissioning a binding - and the
joy of handling the
finished piece - cannot be overestimated. When you own a fine binding
you have a book that has been painstakingly executed by a highly skilled
bookbinder and is a pleasure to look at, to handle and to read.
What to do
Firstly you need to select a bookbinder. Go to the Fellows and Licentiates
pages in the Members section
to view the variety of work available. Designer Bookbinders can provide
a list of Fellows and Licentiates
who undertake
commissions. Most of the binders take on commissions and you can
contact them directly or, for more general advice, write/ring/email
the Designer Bookbinders secretary (see below).
Make your choice
of text and design
You can provide a book text of your own, or leave the choice of text
to the binder. You may like to discuss the design with the binder or
give him/her a free hand. Alternatively you may agree with the binder
that the design is submitted before work is started on the book. Bindings
can range in price from £150 to several thousands. Agree timing,
especially if you have a specific deadline.