BOOKFORGE [ATELIER!] - Carton Pierre Papier Mache Experiment Update Part One

Описание: Carton Pierre Papier Mache Experiment Update Part One includes attempts at casting the Carton Pierre Papier Mache in molds and lessons learned via trial and error.

Before we can create stunning 17th-century French Gothic Papier-mâché Bindings, we need to develop a recipe for our Carton-pierre. I’ve come across some basic recipes, but most of them only include ingredients, and no measurements or ratios. I’ve done some experimentation and decided to start with the recipe in this video. In a week, we will have the reveal and check out the casting this session yielded, we will also gesso and paint the casting.

The Carton-pierre recipe used in this video:
• 2/3 Cup Plaster of Paris
• 1/3 Cup Chalk
• 1/3 Cup Water
• 2/3 Cup 100% Cotton Rag Paper Pulp (Papier-mâché)
• 2/3 Cup Wheat Paste
• 1 Tbsp Linseed Oil

Ingredients used in this video and where to find them:

Plaster of Paris – Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Dap-Plaster-Pa...
Chalk – Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L5HZD40
Mold – Etsy https://www.etsy.com/shop/MKWoodStudio
Making Wheat Paste Video -    • 411 On Bookbinding Adhesives  

From my research, here are some key components and methods that were likely used, based on conservation techniques and historical knowledge:

1. Materials and Preparation:
The base material for paper-mâché was typically made from recycled paper, rags, or linen fibers. These were soaked in water, beaten into a pulp, and then mixed with a binder. Common binders included:
a. Wheat paste (for flexibility)
b. Animal glue (for strength)
c. Gum Arabic (for adhesion)
2. Carton-pierre Technique:

Carton-pierre, meaning "stone cardboard," was a more refined version of paper-mâché. It often included:

a. Finely ground chalk or whiting to give a smoother finish
b. Linseed oil is used to increase water resistance and durability
c. Sometimes, fine sawdust or wood flour for added strength
The mixture was applied in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This layering technique allowed for intricate molding and detailing.

3. Molding and Shaping:
Bookbinders would use wooden or metal molds to shape the covers. The paper-mâché mixture was pressed into these molds, often in multiple layers. Sep molded pieces might be created and assembled for more complex designs.

4. Drying and Curing:
The molded pieces were typically left to dry naturally, which could take several days. Some workshops may have used low heat to speed up the process, but care was taken not to cause warping or cracking.

5. Surface Treatment:
Once dry, the surface was often treated to achieve the desired finish:
a. Sanding for smoothness
b. The application of gesso is for a paintable surface
. c. Burnishing with agate stones for a polished look

6. Decoration Techniques:
French paper-mâché bindings were often elaborately decorated. Techniques included:
a. Painting with oil or water-based paints
b. Gilding with gold leaf
c. Inlaying with mother-of-pearl or other materials
d. Varnishing for protection and shine

7. Structural Reinforcement:
To ensure the durability of the binding, additional reinforcement was often used:
a. Linen or hemp cords embedded in the spine
b. Wooden boards or heavy cardboard as a base for larger books
c. Metal clasps or corners for additional protection

8. Regional Variations:
a. Different regions in France developed their own specific techniques:
a. Paris was known for very fine, delicate work
b. Lyon specialized in more robust, practical bindings

9. Evolution of Techniques:
Over the course of the 17th and 18th centuries, techniques evolved:
a. Early methods relied more on hand-molding
b. Later techniques incorporated more sophisticated molds and presses
c. The quality of materials improved, allowing for finer detail work

10. Conservation Challenges:
Modern conservators face several challenges when working with these bindings:
a. Identifying original materials and techniques
b. Dealing with deterioration from environmental factors
c. Balancing preservation of original materials with structural integrity

This period in French bookbinding was characterized by great innovation and artistry. The paper-mâché technique allowed for a level of detail and design freedom that wasn't possible with traditional leather bindings, leading to some truly spectacular book covers that are still admired today.

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