By Press Release
A fascinating exhibition at Quarr Abbey starts with the timeline of the first book in around 3000BC, right up to the present day, and covers the story of the printed word.
The exhibition takes the visitor through the step-by-step process of the ancient craft of bookbinding, a traditional part of monastic life. There have been bookbinders at the Abbey since 1907, when the community of monks first came to Quarr.
Right up until present times, books play a very important part in the monastic life of the Abbey, and on display are some books from the library dating from 1500. You will also see some of the tools used in bookbinding and you can even make your own jotter, using the blanket stitch of bookbinders.
The exhibition is a chance to learn many interesting facts about the world of books and the ancient art of bookbinding.
Fr Nicholas is now responsible for the bindery at the Abbey, who is passing his knowledge on to Br Matthew. The Abbey also benefits from the bookbinding talents of Fr Blane and Simon, ensuring this traditional skill will be kept alive for future generations.
Isle of Wight Observer