ABSTRACT
Bookbinding consists of two wholly distinct operations, known to the expert as "forwarding" and "finishing". Forwarding is the proper preparation of a book for its cover and the putting on of that cover; finishing is the decoration of the sides and back of the book after it has been covered. At present the custom is the reverse: the finisher or decorator is credited with being the binder, whereas he has done none of the binding. Now, there is no doubt that the protest of this accomplished craftsman is well founded. Every book-lover should understand the principles of the art of the bookbinder, and the practices of the craft; appreciation is best founded on knowledge. When the end-papers are pasted to the covers, the task of the forwarder is done, and the book is ready for the finisher who is to decorate it.
