incollate

Incollate is a process primarily associated with bookbinding and the repair or assembly of books, particularly those with loose or detached signatures. The term originates from the Latin incollare, meaning "to glue together." In this context, it refers to the technique of securing multiple sheets of paper (signatures) into a cohesive unit using adhesive.

The most common method of incollating involves using a glue stick, liquid adhesive, or a specialized glue such as wheat paste. The sheets are folded into a signature, and the edges are glued together along the fold, ensuring the pages remain bound. For more durable results, especially in professional bookbinding, a stronger adhesive like PVA (polyvinyl acetate) glue may be used. In some cases, the process may also involve the use of a binding machine to apply pressure and ensure even adhesion.

Incollation is a fundamental step in book restoration, allowing damaged books to be repaired and strengthened. It is also used in the creation of new books, particularly in traditional binding techniques where signatures must be assembled before being sewn into a spine. The technique requires precision to avoid misalignment or weak bonds, which could compromise the book’s structural integrity.