About us...

The bindery was founded in the late 1940's by Father Anscar Neilson (far left in this picture) at Saint Michael's Abbey in Farnborough, Hampshire. In the early days the monks at the Abbey carried out the binding work, with assistance from one or two secular craftsmen.

As the number of monks decreased over the years the bindery was staffed entirely by secular craftsmen, although close links were retained with the monastic community at all times.

In 1996, after fifty years of service, the Abbey sold the bindery to the craftsmen who had devoted their entire working lives to it. Although the bindery is no longer located within the Abbey grounds the work is continued to the same exacting standards set by the monks half a century earlier. All books, whether ancient or modern, receive the individual care and attention of craftsmen who really know how to judge a book by its cover! Although Father Anscar is no longer with us his picture hangs on the wall, keeping watch over the bindery, making sure we never forget our roots. .

Paul Berry started his binding career in 1973, having first come in contact with the bindery through his involvement with the Abbey Choir. He served a full five-year apprenticeship in the bindery, which included attending Guildford College of Technology on a part-time basis to obtain a City & Guilds qualification in bookbinding.  He has now clocked up over 30 years of continued service in the bookbindery!

Chris Hicks joined the bindery 5 years ago and has now proved to be a great asset to the team. Despite having no experience of bookbinding when he started he has now built up a vast knowledge of binding and restoration skills. He is a constant source of amusement as well as being a good craftsman.

Sandy Berry joined the bindery a couple of years ago and takes care of all the administrative duties. She has also gained an extensive knowledge of the binding operations extending to sewing, case-making and gold finishing.

Grant Newman doesn't work in the bindery. He is a cabinet maker (and a very good one too!), but as he is a frequent visitor we thought we would include him here too. He has been roped in to help in the bindery on a few occasions when we have needed an extra pair of hands, so we are quite happy to take any messages for him!