In my pursuit of learning more about my modern day profession, I have learned the art of 18th century bookbinding methods and collected and restored antique printing presses and related tools. I use these instruments of antiquity to recreate blank Journals and Sketchbooks for sale to the public and to the discerning re-enacting community. My products are made completely by hand. All of the equipment I use in the construction of these blank books are from my personal collection of antiques. All techniques in the construction are those of the 18th Century bookbinders. Although most materials, paper and leather, are commercially made, I have chosen paper that very closely resembles the wire laid papers from that time period. The leather is supple pigskin, an affordable leather used in common and inexpensive bindings of day long past.

 

     In my research, I have learned many things I would like to share with you in my educational pages. Learn about how the Printer’s of Colonial America worked at their art. See into the craft of the bookbinder and follow the work that goes into my books. For the young, or young at heart, you can learn about what it may have been like to be a Printer’s Devil. A Printer’s Devil is nothing evil, but is the name a Journeyman printer gave to the young boys that were apprenticed to their trade. You may also learn more about how our forefathers communicated between each other in the colonies or to Europe. What ever your interest, I am sure that you will find something new and interesting. If you are interested, you can also see some actual examples of colonial printed material that I have in my collection!

 

     Please be my guest and peruse all you wish. Educators may wish to bookmark the Home page as an aide to their students and their research into our proud American history. Remember, I am, and shall always remain,

 

Your most humble and obedient servant,

 

H. DeLea Sayers Esq.

Journeyman Printer, Bookbinder
Text Box: Here I am doing a demonstration of 18th Century bookbinding to the public at Ft. St. Jean Baptiste in Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Greetings!

 

     My name is H. DeLea Sayers. I am an Historian of both the 18th Century and of the printing and bookbinding trade. By combining both, I have been participating in the living history communities by either doing demonstrations at historic locations or by giving public lectures for schools or other groups. I am also an active re-enactor of 18th century life.