Replies

1. 
   Scott_Dog | Mar 16, 2002 06:46am | #1

   *
   Terry,

   As far as knowing how a Bible box was finished I have know idea but I read that back in the 18th century cabinet makers used Linseed oil and clear bees wax because it was easy to get a hold of.

   Does this help?

   MSD

   MSD

1. 
   Seth_Frankel_ | Mar 16, 2002 03:41pm | #2

   *Terry,All finishes will offgas and some will bleed. I'm assuming that these books are of high value (sentimental or monatary). A book conservator would frown on just about every finish option available as well as most every wood as well.Have you considered lining the box with acid-free, unbuffered museum mounting board? Plenty of colors, thicknesses and styles exist. The outside edges of the book boxes could have a lip to hide the board's edges and protect them from being pulled away from the box.Another option that conservators use in plexi. The lining could be 1/8" plexi, maybe frosted (I think P-80 is the right code for a lightly frosted plex) or paint one side. The frosted or painted side goes away from the book and makes the attachment method less visible (adhesive or 3M's VHB tape).Best,Seth

1. 
   Bob_The_Boardman | Mar 16, 2002 04:58pm | #3

   *TerryI'd go to the site listed below. Stephen Shepard is well trained and experienced with preserving antiques and antiquities. His "Alburnam Archives" are a treasure trove of info.Bobwww.ilovewood.com

2. 
   Alan | Apr 08, 2002 12:42am | #4

   Have you considered using epoxy?  I understand (Iam NOT an expert by any means) that when fully cured epoxy is compleatly inert:  i.e. it exudes nothing and reacts with nothing.  Epoxy is often used to seal and protect such diverse things as potable water tanks, gasoline and diesel oil tanks and containers to hold a wide variety of chemicals.  I'd be very surprised if it would not do for archiving books.  It is also extremely durable--especially if you use it with a very fine fiber-glass.