by Tim Harry

Created on: January 14, 2010

Throughout history books have been some of the most valuable of all items, and although their relative cost today has somewhat reduced, buying new books is still an expensive pastime. That being the case when the pages of a book are torn accidentally it is a lot cheaper to repair rather than to replace. Thankfully it is easy enough to repair a torn page at home.

Anyone can of course grab some cello-tape and stick a torn page back together again. It is though hardly a long term solution, and over time the cello-tape will start to lose its stickiness, turn brown, and eventually start to crumble. There are of course advantages to this type of repair and any words are going to be clearly visible beneath the cello-tape, and it is quick. If this method is preferred though, then it is advisable to make use of proper archival repair tape.

When using archival repair tape then a torn page can be easily repaired by first ensuring that the two parts of the torn page match up exactly. The tape needs to be cut to length and carefully pressed down so that edges of the tear are nigh on invisible, the reverse of the tear then needs to have the tape attached as well, making for a long lasting repair.

The use of archival tape though instead of cello-tape does of course increase the cost of the repair but does lat longer and in the end will look better.

There is though an alternative method for repair torn book pages. Most book pages in the recent past have been made from relatively low quality paper that has obvious grain to it. This factor allows for the fact that glue can be used to repair a tear, although it does require a steady hand.

The basic method involves applying a small amount of adhesive to the edge of the tear and then bringing the other edge into contact with it. The trick is of course not to allow the other pages of the book to the glue at the same time. Most people make use of wax paper, although there is always the possibility that damage is caused when the wax paper is removed. For the reason many people like to make use of Japanese paper, like Sekishu, to cover the join. Japanese paper allows anything below it to still be read but will also ensure that no further damage is caused due to the use of glue. The choice of glue is up to the individual although it is common to make use of PVA glue.

Of course for really valuable antique books it is best to call in the professionals to undertake the repair of torn book pages. It may take longer and may cost more money, but the results achieved by professional are often indistinguishable and can ensure that the valuable book retains the majority of its value.

Obviously it is better to keep books in good condition and free from tears, but accidents happen. Knowing how to repair torn pages though can ensure that loved books have a longer life; and will even opens up the possibility of picking up second-hand bargains that can be effectively repaired as well.

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