| OVERSEWING | Oversewing is a method of machine-sewing the pages of a text block in preparation for binding. Until recently, it was heavily used for library binding because of its durability and strength. Its destructive aspects were not clearly recognized until the onset of the brittle book problem. Embrittled paper is too weak to sustain the strength of an oversewn binding; eventually, the pages break off in the inner margin along the "perforation" caused by the oversewing. Moreover, oversewing subjects books to unnecessary, harsh treatment and, for that reason, is reserved for only those instances when its overwhelming strength is truly warranted, such as for thick, heavy volumes like the one shown here, or books printed on coated stock such as journals. |
