Owl & Lion are book-binders specialising in the care and restoration of old and fine books. The workshop was founded by Isabelle McGowan, who was trained in a Florentine master bindery.
Established in Edinburgh in 2009, the business has been operating in Sydney for some years now, providing beautiful book-bindings to institutions and private clients.
Book-binding
We bind books in all styles, offering a range of antique and modern designs to suit every taste. Using only the finest materials, our bindings are renowned for both elegance and technical excellence.
English leather and marbled papers, Dutch book cloth, Italian silks and gold leaf are used to create designs that will be treasured for generations to come.
Repairs and Rebinding
Through years of training and dedication, our staff can repair books of all periods – from the fifteenth century to modern times. We undertake a wide range of repairs, from simple tasks through to re-sewing and re-binding entire books.
We have restored rare books for institutional clients including the Vatican, the National Library of Scotland and the Catholic University in Sydney.
Paper Restoration
Owl & Lion offer a range of paper restoration services. These include physical repairs, removal of stains and discolouration, and the de-acidification of old paper. We offer paper restoration for books, prints, maps, manuscripts and historical documents.
Book Boxes
Elegant boxes for books and manuscripts are available. We custom build clamshell boxes, solander cases, slipcases and other specialised storage options. Only archival grade materials of the highest quality are used in our boxes.
Gold Decoration
Owl & Lion specialise in gold decoration, and take some pride in reproducing intricate and beautiful antique designs for our clients. Pure gold leaf is applied using techniques unchanged over the centuries.
Book-binding Classes
We believe in keeping the art of book-binding alive, and are proud to offer a range of classes at all levels from beginner to advanced. Please see our website for details of upcoming classes and workshops.
Gifts and Notebooks
The bindery stocks a range of notebooks, diaries, blank artists albums and other beautiful creations for special gifts. All are hand-made on the premises by our master binders.
Contact
Please contact us directly at hello@owlandlion.com if you have enquiries about restoration and/or re-binding an old book, please attach multiple images with your email so we can advise you.
The bindery is located in Ultimo near the centre of Sydney. It is within walking distance of Central railway station and the light rail terminus. Visitors are welcome during opening hours.
