[Illustration: PLATE XXV. Freehand dimensioned sketches showing parts
of a sketch book cover.]
In making dimensioned sketches for the various parts (see Plate XXV)
determine first the size of the pages and plan the covers to extend
beyond them about one-eighth of an inch. Make the sketches of the pages
and the newsboard foundations. Lay out and cut the latter, of full
size, and then from either a long or short side of each, in accordance
with plan, cut a strip to form a hinge. The width of these strips
may be from three-quarters of an inch to one inch. Vellum should be
planned to cover completely one side of both pieces of each cover, to
fold around the small piece and to lap over onto the large piece about
one-half inch. It should also fold over the other three edges about
one-half inch. (See Plate XXVI.) The lining paper should cover to
within about one-eighth of an inch of the edges of the large pieces
and should not extend onto the hinge. Constant bending soon breaks
paper, but with ordinary use does not affect the tough vellum. Make
dimensioned sketches of these pieces (see Plate XXV) and lay out and
cut all remaining parts.
[Illustration: PLATE XXVI. A diagram showing the position of the two
pieces of newsboard on a piece of vellum.]
Properly place main part of newsboard on vellum, drawing around it. Lay
small part one-eighth of an inch from main part and draw around it.
Remove the pieces of newsboard and apply paste to vellum inside the
pencil line, being careful to cover the surface smoothly and evenly;
lay both back pieces in place, turn the vellum over and rub down. Cut
from the projecting vellum on the hinged side a small piece even with
the edges of the hinges as far as the outside corners (see Plate XXVI),
and clip off the outside corners as before described. Apply paste to
projecting vellum, fold over first the hinged side and its opposite,
then the other two sides, and rub down. Paste the lining paper in and
dry the covers separately under weight. Remember to place newspaper or
blotting paper between each pair, otherwise the moisture from one will
cause wrinkles in the other.
For the leaves, use drawing paper, which may be cut singly or in folio
(with single fold). The latter method is preferable, as folded sheets
are easier to place at the back, look better, and are more secure.
[Illustration: PLATE XXVII. Two methods of cutting and folding paper
for the pages of a scrap book or postcard album.]
Two holes in each cover are sufficient for the cord, but a little care
should be taken to determine the best position for them. The distance
of each from the end of the hinge strips should be from one-fifth to
one-sixth of its length, and, of course, they should be placed midway
between the long edges. After punching the holes, see that the leaves
are properly marked so that the holes in them will exactly fit the
holes in the cover. To do this, place one sheet on the cover, leaving
correct margins, and through the center of each hole mark the paper
which should then be punched. Treat the other sheets in the same
manner. Eyelets should be inserted in the covers only, and for that
purpose a good eyelet punch is necessary. Directions for its use and
sample eyelets accompany punches when sent from the dealer.
Complete by tying all together with a piece of cord. Make a small flat
bow on the front cover.