Bound for Glory

London’s Chelsea Bindery resurrects rare books the old-fashioned way—by hand.

- Abigail Montanez

FIRST PRINTINGS OF popular titles such as To Kill a Mockingbird or The Old Man and the Sea can fetch upwards of US$100,000—but not if their covers are battered, their dust jackets missing or their delicate pages detached. Although returning damaged classics to their original condition may be impossible, having them finely bound can save cherished copies from the dustbin.

Unlike antiques such as furniture and decor, the worth of which can be greatly diminished by restoration, literary works can recoup some of their monetary value (and extend their longevity) if properly refurbished. Chelsea Bindery in Battersea, London, takes the endeavour one step further by transforming first editions into objects even more decorative than the originals. “A particularly artistic or lavish binding adds to the desirability of a book as a collectible and to the pleasure it brings,” explains manager Emma Doyle.

A single book can take up to 12 weeks to bind, with prices starting at about US$1,800, depending on the size and the intricacy of the design. In some cases, the workshop will remain faithful to the spirit of the old cover; other times, it will reimagine it completely. The rejuvenated volumes’ fine leather bindings can incorporate 22k gold. Chelsea artisans have even encrusted a first edition of Breakfast