Fig. 96.
At the end of the book characteristic examples of blind-tooled books are given (pages [321]-[25]). It will be seen that most of the tools form complete designs in themselves. Although the use of detached die-sunk tools was general, there were also simple tools used, which, when combined, made up more or less organic designs, and allowed more freedom to the finisher (see [figs. 96] and [97]).
Fig. 97.
Some use may also be made of interlaced strap-work designs, either worked with gouges, or a small fillet. A book bound in oaken boards, with a leather back with knotted decoration, is shown at page [330]. I have found that such binding and decoration is more satisfactory in scheme for old books, than most forms of modern binding.
If a design is simple, the cover is marked up with dividers, and the tools impressed direct upon the leather; or, if it is elaborate, a paper pattern is made out, and the tools blinded through the paper, as described for gold tooling. The leather is then damped with water, and the impressions retooled.
Fig. 98.