Bookbinding and the Conservation of Books
A Dictionary of Descriptive Terminology

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warp

A series of parallel yarns extended lengthwise in a loom, thereby forming the lengthwise threads of a fabric. They are usually twisted tighter than the filling yarns and are sized so as to protect them during the weaving of the filling threads.

The warp direction of a cloth is the stronger of the two directions. There is some disagreement as to which direction the warp of a book cloth should run with relation to the spine of the book. Some contend that the warp should run across the joint of a case-bound book, as this will give more strength in the joint; others maintain that the warp should run parallel to the spine because: 1) it makes a neater joint; 2) in the event the cloth becomes damp or wet there is less likelihood of the covers warping in such a manner that the head and tail pull outward thus damaging the inner hinge; and 3) the cloth will adhere better in the joint. (152 , 209 )




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