Text block washing, old school. The binder has a curious expression, a mix of intense concentration, shock and self conscious posing. Courtesy Anonymous Bookbinder
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The back of the above photo. Courtesy Anonymous Bookbinder
Manual Peachey Board Slotting Machine
Board slotting is likely the strongest and least invasive method of treating detached boards. Detached boards are the most common point where bookbindings fail. Christopher Clarkson developed the technique in the late 1970’s. The board slotting tab at the top of this page and the board slotting blog offers more information concerning its history, technique and recent advances.
The original Peachey Board Slotting Machine, developed in 2005, is used in conservation labs around the world. It is, however, a somewhat large and expensive machine, and best suited for large institutions. The Manual Peachey Board Slotting Machine is a new affordable alternative for individuals, regional centers, smaller institutional labs and even larger labs with space limitations. This smaller machine can be moved out of the way when not in use, freeing up valuable bench space. It is also simpler to operate.
The Manual Peachey Board Slotting Machine features stops that automatically guide the positioning of the blade when starting and stopping a cut. In order to make this machine more affordable, three aspects are limited as compared with the original machine: the maximum length that can be slotted is 15″ (rather than 17.75″), the board needs to be manually pulled or cranked using a hand wheel, and the angles for slotting are not infinitely adjustable, but can be set at 11, 13, and 15 degrees. These are the most common angles used. In fact, I use 13 degrees about 90% of the time, 11 for very thin boards, and 15 for thick ones.
This machine is less intimidating when compared to the original. The orientation makes it easier to sight the height of the blade. The carriage can be quickly pulled back into starting position after the end of a previous cut. This also makes partial (or biscut) slotting of a board very fast and easy. Overall, the slotting operation seems to be quicker. Many bookbinding and conservation students, such as those from North Bennett Street School, have been trained in the fundamentals of board slotting. A one to three day workshop on machine operation, basic slotting technique and structures is recommended, though.
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SPECIFICATIONS
-Width of the machine -12″, Height- 19″, Length- 22″
-Weight 30 lbs. Easy to move and store when not needed.
-Fast and intuitive operation.
-The sliding board carriage can be quickly moved to the starting position at the end of a slot, or between biscuit slots.
-Maximum height of board that can be slotted: 15″
-Dust collector hooks up to a standard vacuum cleaner.
-Thick and thin solid carbide blades included for long cutting life.
-Automatic blade positioning for starting and stopping a cut.
-Boards can be slotted by pulling or cranking.
-Safety guards (not pictured) keep hands away from the blade in use.
-The motor, and other operations are similar to the original machine.
-No electrical transformer needed for international operation, just plug adaptors.
-This machine can be shipped pre-aligned, but still needs some assembly.
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I have a machine in operation at my NYC studio if you would like to examine and give it a test drive. Please contact me if you have questions or need a formal price quote including shipping, assembly and training.
Introductory Price: $4,950.00 (Regular price $5,500.00)
New! Aluminum Plate Sharpening System II
I’ve made three significant improvements to the aluminum plate sharpening system. First, the plates themselves are now a half of an inch thick, rather than a quarter. This aids in their stability if used without the holder. Secondly, the plates are now machined with a flycutter, which results in a flat surface and regular pattern. Thirdly, the plate holder has been redesigned. Now, a knurled adjustment knob allows quick and easy flipping and switching of the plates without tools. It now only takes 3 seconds, even if you work slow. The stand is all aluminum with stainless steel screws so there is nothing to rust.
These plates are used the same as any sharpening stones. The plate holder has four rubber feet to keep it from sliding around. I generally use water as a lubricant to keep the metal particles from glazing over.
This is the system I use to make and sharpen all of my knives. People often ask how long each abrasive sheet lasts, and although there are many variables, I’d guess I can generally sharpen about 10 knives on each one. Of course, if you are trying to reshape a bevel angle or repair a major chip you might use up an entire sheet. When a sheet is exhausted, simply peel it off and stick a new one one. You must trim the edges of the edges of the finishing film when you put a new sheet on, so that it does not overhang the edges. Otherwise it may give you one of the nastiest, dirtiest, slow-healing cuts you have ever had, DAMHIKT. 80 micron replacement sheets are available from Rio Grande; the 40, 15 and 5 micron from Tools for Working Wood.
I’m convinced it is the easiest, quickest, and most convenient way to resharpen and keep all your knives and edge tools in peak condition, from scalpels to scimitars. This system is a lightweight, easy to store and unbreakable. Perfect for travel and classroom use.
The system comes with four 11 x 2″ strips each of 80, 40, 15 and 5 micron #3M PSA micro finishing film, a 12 x 2″ Genuine Horsebutt Strop, and 1 oz. bar of green chromium oxide buffing compound. The entire system is 13 x 3 x 2.5″, 3 lbs. 4 oz.
ITEM #SS2: Introductory price $225.00
Tips on sharpening are located here, and tips on stropping here.
Peachey Conservation 