What happens when you hybridize a bookbinder’s folding rib and a case folder? You get the Casing Rib.
The potter’s rib was adapted for bookbinding by Christine Cox, who made her version out of Teflon. It is used by many bookbinders for repetitive covering tasks, folding, creasing, etc. A Bakelite case folder is a more traditional tool for similar tasks. The case folder is first recorded being used by the Harcourt Bindery in 1972 according to Sam Ellenport; likely earlier.
Not to Goldilocks it too much; but for me, the teflon rib is too small and narrow, and the case folder is too large. Teflon, though wonderfully slippery, wears rapidly. Harcourts’ case folder is made from a Bakelite phenolic laminated material which doesn’t slide very easily. Daniel Mellis made an experimental stainless steel rib, which I enjoyed using, and it prompted my own search for a better size and material.
So the casing rib was born.
Made from black Delrin, the large size is easy to grasp and apply pressure directly downwards. I use it for turning-in, general smoothing, box making, and more. Delrin is non-marking like Teflon, and more than twice as abrasion resistant.
“Jeff, this tool is the best. It feels so nice to work with. I’m doing a big edition and using it repetively has been nothing but joy. Doesn’t hurt the wrist. My old case folder would sometimes snap my fingers down if I wasn’t careful. 10/10.” – Purchased by Gabby Cooksey
Peachey Conservation 