starched edges
Decorative book edges produced by the use of
colored starch (paste), which is sprinkled on the
edges in very fine drops. When the starch is dry a
darker color is sprinkled on. and, when that is
dry, the starch paste is brushed off. Blue-gray
(mixed with the paste) and dark brown were the
colors commonly used for this decoration. Unsized
book paper was best for this technique because it
permitted absorption of the paste and color. When
sized papers were used, the colors did not
adhere.well and often ran together unless the edge
was first treated with gall water. (151 )
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