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How to Pack an Antique Book

Most old books are sturdily made, with hard covers of leather or cloth, but they still require some measure of protection if being sent by mail. In particular, it's important to shield the corners and spine, as well as the dust jacket if the book has one. However, a sensible use of normal packing materials should ensure that you avoid any problems.

Things You'll Need

Plastic bag or tissue paper
Bubble wrap
Sticky tape
Padded envelope or box
Masking tape

Instructions

- 1
  Check to see whether the book you are sending has a dust jacket -- a decorated outer cover made of paper. If it does, then it's important to take extra care, because the dust jacket is not only flimsy, it is also one of the most valuable parts of any book. Protect this delicate item by placing the book inside a sandwich bag or wrapping it in soft tissue paper. If the book doesn't have a jacket, then proceed to Step 2.
- 2
  Cover the book with a sheet of bubble wrap. If you are sending the book to a buyer, the areas on the book that he will first check for damage are the corners and the top and bottom of the spine, so double up the thickness of the bubble wrap in those areas.
- 3
  Slip the book inside a padded envelope, then buttress both ends with masking tape -- this will add extra protection to the book's extremities. Alternatively, place the book in a small box, using crumpled plastic bags as padding and masking tape to seal all of the box's edges.

Antiques