Sixteenmo. A sheet folded into sixteen leaves, about 4×6 inches when folded. Usually written 16mo.
Size. A preparation of pastewash used in finishing and gilding.
Sizes of books. See folio, quarto, octavo, etc.
Skiver. The outer hair or grain side of sheepskin which has been split. It is commonly the thinner of the two parts, as when the inner is prepared for chamois. It usually looks well, and is easily worked, but is not strong. Much used for bindings. See Sheepskin.
Slips. The ends of the band, twine or tape on which the book is sewn that project beyond the back after it is sewed.
Smooth calf. Plain or undecorated calf.
Split leather. Leather split by machine. Two or more pieces or splits are thus obtained either of which may be used. The inner layer is usually of inferior quality. Sometimes leather is split simply to secure uniformity of thickness in the outer parts.
Sprinkled calf. Calf so treated with acid that it looks as if it had been sprinkled with a dye.
Sprinkled edges. Cut edges of books sprinkled with color, that the marks made by handling may be less evident.
Squares. The portion of the boards that project beyond the edge of the leaves of the book.