Jim Owens: The Invention and Demise of Victorian Bookcloth

Jim Owens, an associate member of the ABAA and a Principal at Thorn Books, and his wife Lynne Owens (full member) since 1987. Jim's educational journey is a testament to his intellectual curiosity, with an undergraduate degree from St. Mary's of Moraga in Philosophy, Latin, English, and Vertebrate Zoology. Jim, also a Doctorate of Jurisprudence from Ventura College of Law, has been involved in many volunteer works in public radio and television and for the Postal History Museum Foundation in Tucson, AZ. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jim's interests span a wide range, from bookbinding and restoration to gardening and playing the organ and harp.
Jim delved into the historical significance of Victorian bookcloth, examined the factors that led to its emergence as a replacement for leather on books. He explored the various types of Victorian bookcloths and provided insights into the reasons behind their usage. Additionally, Jim shed light on the decline of Victorian bookcloth and its impact on bookbinding practices.

[@kgsuniquerareandantiquebooks]

Jim is such a wealth of knowledge!!

[@wonderfulbooksofoz]

Very interesting--love the Q-tip tip!

[@thomasbrennan8398]

This was a great tutorial, although expensive for me to watch, as by the time it was over, I had ordered $200 worth of the great reference books Jim described.