Giving old books a new life
- Maria is keen on preserving the heritage craft of bookbinding
- She specialises in fine leather binding and hand gold finishing
- Her work reflects the value of books and the merits of their papers and typographies
Maria Ruzaikina inherited her affinity for books and bookbinding from her family – more specifically from her father, Aleksander Ruzaikin, a recognised bookbinder who taught her the craft. After completing a course in modern fine binding in the UK and taking private lessons from bookbinding experts, Maria opened her workshop in 2017. Her work focuses on fine leather binding, hand gold tooling and traditional edge gilding. "I feel happy to be preserving this heritage craft. I often create a new leather binding from scratch, taking into account the style, era and publication place," she says. Her inspirations include architectural classicism and modernism, contemporary visual arts and decorative antiques. Currently, Maria leads a private practice and works with rare book collectors and dealers.
INTERVIEW
I would rather call myself a conservative when it comes to innovation. I am quite reluctant to experiment with structures and unknown materials, as I see no point in changing something that works so well. Moreover, I have no right to put rare books at risk.
I rebind books that were poorly bound or that have completely lost their covers and spines. My duty is to increase the value of a book by dressing it in a 'bespoke suit' that fits its size, hides its flaws and highlights the merits of its paper and typography.
I appreciate our era for the opportunities it offers. Anyone from anywhere can learn the basics of bookbinding and even start receiving commissions without leaving home. With persistence and consistency, everything will work out.
Bookbinding should fulfil its function perfectly. The book must open well and the very touch of leather should give you a pleasant feeling. Only high-quality and sustainable materials must be used. I prefer gilded letters, lines and decorative details.
