Limp Vellum Bindings
Limp vellum bindings were quite common in the sixteenth century. They provided a quick and durable way to bind a book. The sections are sewn on alum tawed cords that are then laced through the cover. The spine is either glued up or left alone. Often there are yapps, or protective folded edges, at the fore edge. Because vellum is a reactive material, sometimes tawed ties were also added to the fore edge to tie the book shut.