How to Repair a Map or Foldout in a Book
When you want to repair a map or foldout you have to remember a few things about how folded paper works. I used to overdo it with the strength of the tissue I used for the repair and I used to think I had to strengthen every fold preventatively. I know better now and can show you the safest way to repair a map so that it holds together for a very long time. If you have books with maps or foldouts in them you will be familiar with the kinds of tears that happen along the folds. It can be really hard to repair them because of course they are attached to the book! You have to be so careful not to create more tears.
Click the “Curriculum” Tab to get to the Lesson
Included in The Lesson:
- Type of Book: 19th century leather book
- This Particular Book: Robert Burns Works
- Issue: The foldout is torn in several places and there is old tape to remove. The foldout does not need cleaning.
- Treatment: Remove old tape and de-acidify affected area then repair the foldout with Kozo tissues and Paste
- 18 Minutes of Video
- Step by Step Instructions
After the old tape is removed and repairedPERPETUAL CAVEAT: Never repair rare and/or scarce books. When in doubt only do preservation treatments and consult an accredited professional.
Repair a Map or Foldout: Summary of Steps
- Gather materials and tools: Much of what you need can be found in the Page Repair Kit
- Clean or remove old tape as necessary
- Prop up Book
- Line up Tears
- Apply tissue with paste
- Bob’s Your Uncle!
The lesson contains all the details.
