[28] The surface of horny or greasy parchment may be slightly roughened with a pen-knife till little hairs are raised which will hold the size, care being taken that this roughening does not extend beyond the actual parts which are to be covered with size. (Oxgall: see footnote, p. [175].)
[29] As this is usually allowed to dry for twenty-four hours, make sure, before laying the size, that you will be able to lay the gold-leaf on it at or near the same time on the next day.
[30] Should a drop fall on the page it can be removed quickly with the knife, but it is safer to allow it to dry and then to pick it off carefully. Size which has flowed beyond the bounds of the form may be trimmed away when it has set.
[31] A finer metal or ivory point may also be used.
[32] Vide D. Cockerell, “Bookbinding and the Care of Books,” p. 81.
[33] The very costly, specially prepared calf-skin is too highly “finished,” and has much the appearance of superior cardboard. It is stiff and shiny, and its surface is objectionable to work on.
[34] OXGALL may be used for a greasy surface; painted on it, or mixed with the colour.
[35] And the nib is cleaned out now and then (with the filling brush), or wiped, to prevent the colour clogging it (see p. [70]).
[36] “French Ultramarine” is an artificial compound, and a poor colour.
[37] For white lining, &c.—if in constant use—the Chinese White in bottle is said to be the best; a little Spirits of Wine should be poured into it, to keep it moist and make it work better. It should be stirred well, and a sufficient quantity for immediate use is taken out and mixed in a small saucer. The bottle is kept tightly corked.