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From: Joe Marrone - La Jolla, CA

Dear Mr. Stansell, Sorry for not writing sooner about the wonderful book restoration you and the artisans at Craft Bookbinding accomplished at what I consider to be a very fair price. Let me start by saying the structure or foundation of this very large book was done to perfection. The book opens with ease and the pages are secure in the spine. Owning a working book and not just a shelf ornament was very important to me and you did a great job from the inside out. The repairs and your methods for treating the heavy water stains added to the books enjoyment. Turning the pages and reading this book without losing the 1729 feel of wisdom and patina restores my faith in American Craftsmanship. Your choice of leather and coloring for the binding and authentic period Cambridge style covers gives me a sense of royalty in my own library. Ed, I have shown the book to a few and already people are asking me who did this binding and will you give us his name. I hope to send you some additional work in the future and want to give you my endorsement and a highest recommendation. Please use my name if your customers need a reference. Thank you, Joe Marrone La Jolla, California 92037 San Diego Historic Landmark #22



From: Granville H. Bowie, III - Kennebunk, ME

Ed - GREAT job! I thought that spine would be nearly impossible to piece back together and make look whole, but you did it. You transformed a really rare book that was falling apart back into a volume fit for a serious collector's library. You have my "eternal" gratitude - - and business! Best regards, Gran



From: Jean Marie Guerville - La Queue En Brie, France

Mr. Ed Stansell,
     
     I received this day the Russian manuscript. It is a great joy for me.
     Well done to restore life to a beautiful manuscript.
     Bravo for your exceptional work is beautiful !!!!!!
     Thank you. Without your help these family books lose their lives.
     I send you by return mail another Arabic script to give me a quote.
     
     A big thank you my gratitude,
     
     Jean Marie Guerville




From: Jacqui Hinton - Pahrump, NV

Ed, The book arrived today. I have called everybody who I told about having the work done to come and see it. I was jumping around and yelling; and, so excited even the cottontails in my back pasture started scurrying about. I AM ECSTATIC!!! It is simply AWESOME. You have done an unbelievable job. No wonder you are known as the "master binder." Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I am recommending you to all my friends. I am sure you have more work than you can handle and don't need me to do any personal advertising for you. But, I can't help but sing your praises because I am SO satisfied. Thank you again for the beautiful work you did. Jacquie



From: Neil Berman, - Waccabuc, NY

Dear Ed, I would like to thank you for the fine job you did saving some of my books, among them, my three Sherlock Holmes books. Although they are not old, it turns out they are scarce and would be exceeding difficult if not impossible to replace. Your rebinding work is so fine that the only thing that gives it away, that it is not original, is that the job is superior to the original. You charged me on the twin set in a slip case $280.00 to repair and rebind it in replica style, and at the same time I was offered a lone volume two, dog eared nearly to death for $900.00 by a reputable dealer. I have been collecting books for over thirty years, and this has been the first occasinon that I have had a flood, destroying a large part of my collection, and therefore requiring a skilled craftsman to repair those that were salvaged. You can see why I am quite pleased, and you should feel free to use me as a reference, should the occasion arise. Sincerly, Neil S. Berman



From: Historic Charleston Foundation - Charleston, SC

Dear Mr. Stansell: On behalf of Historic Charleston Foundation and the Friends of the Courthouse, I would like to thank you for the restoration and binding work that was done on the Friend's collection of 18th and 19th century legal books. As you well know, the books needed much attention as many had split or missing bindings. Your skillful handiwork has greatly improved the oveall condition and appearance of these books, The "new" leather bindings with gold lettering are exquisitly accomplished. We are delighted to display such fine work in the Petigru Law Library in the Historic Courthouse at the four corners of law in Charleston. Historic Charleston and the Friends of the Courthouse would be happy to be listed as references for you and the Craft Bookbinding Company. We look forward to working with you in the future. Sincerely, Jonathan H. Posten Director of Museums and Preservation Initiatives



From:Pat Peterson, St. Elizabeths School - Wilmington, DE

Dear Mr. Stansell: Our restored 1908-30 St. Elizabeth Elementary School Register arrived earlier this week. I can't begin to tell you how thrilled I was when I opened the package. Not in my wildest imagination did I picture it looking as great as it does. Your work is unbelievable! As we both know, I brought you a book that was a total mess and you restored it to look like it must have when the Benedictine Sisters first began to record in it in 1908. The register will be on display during our 100th celebration in 2008. It will be viewed through a protective case. The photocopies that I made of it before I brought it to you will be there for people to search through. I am so thankful that you were still in Delaware when I pursued the project of having the register restored. You are indeed a Master Craftsman. Sincerely, P. Patricia Peterson Director of Development St. Elizabeth Elementary School Wilmington, Delaware



From: Gena Arnold - Cumming, GA

Mr. Stansell, The Bible arrived Saturday. I was filled with emotion when I saw your beautiful work. I couldn't believe my eyes. I never expected the Bible to look like new nor did I ever imagine torn pages could be made new again. I can't tell you how happy I am and I much I thank you for your time and your great talent. I am blessed beyond words and I am so thrilled that my daddy's Bible will be present for many, many years to come. God Bless you and thank you so much. Please pass my thanks on to others that had a part in the restoration. I am saving my money and will be contacting you about the case very soon. Again, thank you so very much. Gena Arnold



From: Michael Diederich - South San Francisco, CA

Ed, The book arrived today--I'm thrilled with the craftsmanship that you put into this tiny treasure! I can't thank you enough for restoring St. Onge's very first miniature book--and now the centerpiece of my growing St. Onge collection. What an incredible transformation! It now sits prominently in a miniature bookcase on the wall of our study, to be admired daily. I'm sending the two-volume Milton set to you in tomorrow's post. Work more magic, Ed, and do let me know what fees you require for task. Thanks so much, again, Ed. Best to you, Michael



From: Craig Kronhart - Hong Kong

Dear Ed, I managed to get back home during December and finally had a chance to look at the book that you restored -- your reputation is very well deserved. I was amazed at the attention to detail that you put into the restoration. The quality of the materials and the level of workmanship were both first class and left nothing to be desired. Thanks so much for the effort you put into this restoration; I look forward to being able to pass this book on to my children. All the best for you and your family in 2008. Best regards, Craig



From: Ellece Varnes - Madison, AL

Our Bible arrived today. It is truly more beautiful than we ever dreamed possible. What a treasure for our family to have. We were so fortunate to have found you. The detail to workmanship is more than we could hope for. Thank you so very much. Your endeavor could not be appreciated more. God bless you and your family, Ellece



From: Arlene Coppadge - Wilmington, DE

WoooooooooooooW mere words can't adequately express my appreciation and total satisfaction with the finish product. Despite the fact that I am well aware of your extraordinary talent….. The book exceeded my expectation. More importantly, it left my daughter completely speechless. She has never been one who is lost for words. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Arlene Coppadge and family.



From: Elisabeth Wingerter - Canton, OH

Hi Ed,this is Elisabeth Wingerter, the one you've been making the huge locked book for for months now. I just got my book about 20 minutes ago, and I wanted you to know that it is perfect. This book idea meant so much to me, and you made it into exactly what it should be. I have to admit I cried a little when I held it the first time, I was so happy. Anyway, just wanted to say thank you for a job very well done, it was definitely worth the wait! Thanks again, and take care! Elisabeth Wingerter



From: Dixie B. Baker - Redondo Beach, CA

I received the family bible you restored for me, and I am amazed, impressed, and very, very pleased with the excellent work you did on it. When my husband's mother passed away in November, we found this huge bible, with both front and back leather covers torn off, and the leather spine cover torn into three pieces. But the goldleaf and woodblock art prints were gorgeous, and the book obviously was very old. So I sent it off to you to restore, and I'm SO GLAD I did! It's absolutely beautiful! I had not realized that the front and back covers were actually leather-relief! You are very skilled artists, and I am very glad I found you! Thank you so much for caring for this book as much as it obviously deserved to be cared for! -Dixie Baker



From: Longwood Gardens - Kennett Sq., PA

Since the fall of 1977, Mr. Stansell has done our binding, rebinding, restoring or making facsimile bindings to our rare books. Since he was unknown to me at the time, I had him restore one volume of "Edward's Botanical Register" for a comparison with the New York City conservatory that I had been using. I was so well pleased to find a local conservator that I have had Mr. Stansell do all of our rare book restoration ever since. Sincerely yours, Enola Jane N. Teeter Librarian



From: Andrew D.N. Wilson - Aiken, SC

 Dear Mr. Stansell,

 I have just received the volume of Macaulay's "History of England" which you have repaired and restored for me. I would like to thank you for the superb job, and a repair that seems almost undetectable. I had no idea that a detached board could be joined so neatly. I am quite delighted with the results, and I appreciate greatly the work you did.

Yours sincerely,

Andrew D. N. Wilson




From; Mark Colantonio - Weirton, WV

Ed: today, I received the Huckleberry Finn book which I had sent to you for restoration. As a collector of rare books for approximately 20 years, I believe I know good binding work when I see it. Your work is outstanding. I have always debated whether to entrust the restoration of a truely "rare" book to anyone, because you never know whether you will get something back that has actually decreased the value of the book. Well the debate is over. Your work has truely restored this valuable book back to what is once was and nothing more. You have greatly enhanced the value of this rare book. I would highly recommend your work to anyone who wants perfection - and why would anyone want anything else. Mark



From: Mary V. Nelson - State College, PA

Thank you for sending my Bible which I received on Monday. It has turned out so well, better than I thought it would be. It really is a lovely Bible and I appreciate all the trouble you have taken to make it so. As you said, these Bibles are very handsome. My family will enjoy this one for years to come. I enjoyed the phone conversation too and hearing all about Clifton. Thank you again. Mary Nelson



From: Holy Trinity (Old Swedes)Church Foundation, Inc.

I would like to recommend Mr. L.E. Stansell to you as a quality bookbinder. In April of 1985, the Holy Trinity (Old Swedes) Church Foundation contracted with Mr. Stansell to rebind several volumes of Old Swedes Church burial records and several books in our library. Some of the bindings had deteriorated to the point where the book had to be resewn as well as rebound. One volume had to be deacidified. Mr. Stansell did an excellent job. He was responsive to the foundation's needs and helpful in choosing the correct binding materials for each book. All the volumes that we entrusted to him are in excellent shape. It is obvious from the results that he takes pride in doing quality work. The foundation was more than satisfied with his work and would not hesitate to use his services again. I would highly recommend him to you. Sincerely, Lisa A. Nichols Curator



From: John Baier - Malibu, CA

Hi Ed, You just rebound a childrens fairytale book for me, I wanted to let you know that it is absolutely gorgeous! I was a bit taken aback when I first heard how much the project would cost, but I must say you have turned a broken beaten up book that nobody wanted to read (even though it had been read for many many hours) into a real treasure, that we will always admire. A funny aside, I've read and told our kids for the last 7 years that that book was a family treasure that my parents had read to me from when I was a child. Well it turns out, that my wife's sister actually bought the book at a yard sale seven years ago for 99cents! But now, it is a family treasure; and I think we'll stick with the original story, now that we have what looks like a family heirloom to match!! Thank you, we appreciate your craftsmanship. Sincerely, John Baier



From: City of Wilmington, Delaware

I am pleased to submit this letter of reference for L. Edward Stansell. For over thirty years Mr. Stansell has been providing the City of Wilmington with beautiful leather bound volumes of its City Council meeting minutes to serve as a permanent record of these proceedings. He is extremely reliable and conscientious and produces a high quality archival product.... Sincerely, Leo T. Marshall City Clerk



From: Charles van Ravenswaay - Wilm., DE

For many years I have been a collector of books, many of them rare, old, and, fragile. Sometimes their physical condition when acquired calls for expert conservation treatment, whether repairs to the original binding, completely new bindings, or being given a protective case. Mr. L. Edward Stansell of Wilmington, Delaware has carried out a considerable amount of conservation work for me. His repairs and bindings have been consistantly painstaking and workmanlike. He has shown taste and good judgment in recommending colors and types of binding material. His finished work is not only pleasing to the eye but sturdy. I do not hesitate to recommend Mr. Stansell's work to others who know and appreciate fine books and want them to receive proper conservation attention. Charles van Ravenswaay



From: Randall Shaffer - Alexandria, VA

Hi Ed, We received our bible today. Your work is remarkable. We are very happy with the results. Thank you for all your work. Randy



From: Nanette Davis - Grimesland, NC

Hi Ed, The bible arrived a little earlier today and it looks great! A restoraton and not a remodeling - very nicely done. I'm sure it will be good for another 200 years and I will happily send it off to Germany ... a little late for her confirmation last April but no harm done. I had sent her a genealogy report on the family that originally owned the bible and how it has been passed down in the family with the collection of signed gift cards that it contained, tracking the ownership through the years. Thanks again, Nanette Davis



From: Frank McKelvey, Jr. Hagley Museum

I have just had a chance to see the work done on "Uncle Lou's Book." I must say that I am more than satisfied with the finished product. It is encouraging in this day and age to find someone with your sense of care and craftsmanship. Thank you for helping us make this tribute to our beloved professor. Sincerely, Frank McKelvey, Jr. Curator of Mechanical Arts



From: Alan Tillotson - New Castle, DE

Thank you very much for your work on my thesis. I was really surprised at the quality. I have had occasion to see the bound works of other students on the shelves at the college, and your work seems to be the best I've seen. Perhaps I will have an opportunity to make use of your services again in the future, or at least recommend you to others. Sincerely yours, Alan Tillotson



From: Potter, Anderson & Corroon

I am delighted to provide a reference for Stansell's Craft Bookbinding Company. Stansell's has been binding our appellant briefs and records for at least 35 years and have done first rate, prompt and reliable work. I recommend them without reservation. Sincerely yours, Charles S. Crompton, Jr.



From: Jamie Wyeth - Chadds Ford, PA

I am indeed pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Edward Stansell. Over the past 25 years, Mr. Stansell has done bookbinding for me. His knowledge, skill, and advocacy of the "art of books" is unsurpassed. In addition to binding rare books for me, he created pads of hand wove paper for use in my artwork. I and my father, are particularly discerning with our art materials, and Mr. Stansell met the highest standards.... With best regards, Jamie Wyeth



From: Mrs. Alfred Bissell - Greenville, DE

Concerning the work, you have done our bookbinding for my magazines and books. I have been pleased with this work for at least 30 or 40 years - I hope you will continue to be able to help me. Yours truly, Julia A. Bissell



From: Denison Hatch, Jr. - Wilmington,DE

As you know, in my dealings with you over the past five years, I have been impressed by your considerable skill in bookbinding as well as your conscientiousness. Very truly yours, Denison Hatch, Jr.



From: Mrs. Lammot duPont Copeland - Mt. Cuba, DE

Mr. L.E. Stansell has been taking care of books in my library that needed attention as well as binding my "Antiques Magazine" for many years. I have found his work thoroughly satisfactory and believe him qualified to do any work he feels competent to do. Very truly yours, Pamela C. Copeland Mrs. Lammot duPont Copeland



From: Kalmar Nyckel Foundation - Wilmington, DE

Dear Mr. Stansell, I wanted to thank you for restoring the copy of the 1938 newspaper exhibited in our shipyard museum. I very much appreciate your assistance in preserving history as it relates to the city and the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation. Thank you again. Regards, Steven D. Luthultz Executive Director



From: Alan Schaffer - Eatonton, GA

Ed, Got the Bible Monday. It was at the post office who had tried to deliver it last week. I want to thank you for doing such a nice job. The leather is beautiful and feels like its been on there forever. I’ll be sure to keep you in mind if any of my friends need your help. Regards, Alan Schaffer



From: Marilyn McVicker - Bakersville, NC

Hello, I want to thank you for the wonderful job you did in restoring our Mother's childhood book, Wynken, Blynken and Nod. It has been in the family close to 100 years now, and it is a book we grew up loving. It had gotten to the point that it was unreadable -- a pile of pages falling apart, leaving a mess of dissolving paper parts on your lap. I never imagined that it would look as good as it does now! It now has a binding, the pages are repaired and no longer dogeared, shredded from over-use. However, the most amazing thing, is that with the repairs, the books still maintains its aura of historical significance. It still looks like it was loved and read by generations of children in our family. And, because of its restoration, it will continue to be read, nourishing another generation of granchildren, who will thrill to the poetry and the superb illustrations you have preserved, rather than disintegrating into a pile of dust. Thank you so much, from all of us. Marilyn McVicker



From: Jeff Gruver - Roanoke, VA

I would like to recommend Ed Stansell to you as an highly skilled book restoration professional. In October of 2003, I contacted Mr. Stansell and discussed with him the rebinding of a book which my wife and I found in a basement. The book we found is a copy of "The Federalist", printed and published by Jacob Gideon, June 1818. The boards front and back were torn lose and the spine was also in need of much attention. The leather binding was dry rotted, and would fall apart just by touching the book. Mr.Stansell did an excellent job, the new leather binding was crafted to look like the original binding with the gold lettering on spine. I am quite pleased to display this book in my book collection.n Mr. Stansell I would be more than happy to be listed as an reference to you and the Craft Bookbinding Company. I look forward to working with you in the future. Sincerely, Jeffrey Gruver Roanoke,VA



From: J. Simpson Dean, Jr. - Greenville, DE

This is a letter recommending the bookbinding work of Mr. L.E. Stansell. He has repaired the work and bookbindings on many books for me and I have been very satisfied with his workmanship. Very truly yours, J.S. Dean



From: Thomas Frank, M.D. - El Paso, TX

Book received. Masterfully restored. I would endorse your work. Looking at the before photos I am very impressed. Thank you very much.



From: Linda Mac Donald - Elkin, NC

Dear Ed, I have received the restored Bible you sent last week. It looks nearly exactly as I expected. I am very pleased with it. I am wondering if I should be applying some sort of special moisturizer to it occasionally to keep it soft as it is currently??? Any other recommendations to keep it in good shape?? Thanks for your help. Linda MacDonald



From: Jeanne Popyack - West Chester, PA

My Neiswender Bible arrived just as you said it would, in five days after you mailed it. It looks beautiful and I am pleased with it. Both of my sisters were here last week and they also admired the workmanship. Jeanne Popyack



From: Mildred Zimmerman - Pinellas Park, FL

Dear Edward, Thank you! The book looks like the original, so my uncle says. He is delighted and surprised to say the least. Now he has a treasure from his family and is very thankful. God bless, Mildred



From: Mrs. Frederic C. Pryor - Swarthmore, PA

Dear Mr. Stansell, Your book is beautiful, it is a work of art, and my husband was thrilled to see the exquisite results of his long waiting. Many thanks. I am sending you another book to be rebound, and also a sample copy which is a Japanese translation. With best regards, Zora Pryor



From: Mrs George P. Bissell, Jr. -Greenville, DE

L.E. Stansell has been doing my bookbinding for almost fifty years. My Brother-in-law, the late Alfred E. Bissell, recommended Mr. Stansell to me in the early 1950s. Mr. Stansell does excellent work, is extremely reliable, and finishes his orders promptly. I have always been pleased with his work and would recommend him highly to anyone. Sincerely, Georgina M. Bissell



From: Richard Belser - New Brunswick, NJ

Hi Ed, I just wanted to let you know that I received the book you created for me (Electrophysiological Researches) and that I am very pleased with it indeed. I also received your invoice, which although not marked "paid" is (I presume) only for my records, as my bank shows a payment to you for the full billed amount. The next project I'd like you to take on for me is the repair of a book from 1809 ("An Epitome of Electricity and Galvanism") that was bound in full leather but has one loose and one completely detatched board. I will try to get it off to you within the next week or two - for your attention when you have the chance. Thank you again for the great job with my electrophysiological articles. - Ric Belser



From: Steven Davis - Salem, NJ

Dear Ed, Wanted to drop you a line on how impressed I was when I received the book you repaired for me. (Scotland's Gift: Golf) Haven't seen as many books as you have that have been repaired but I know that this book was definitely done by a true artisan. Well done. Thank you much, Steven P. Davis



From: David Daugherty - Riverdale, GA

Mr Stansell Received the bible last Monday. You did a great job restoring a book that was falling apart. The new binding and cover looks real good. It was brought here a 100 years ago with my grandfather and great grandparents, so it will be a nice keepsake for the family. David Daugherty



From: Eva Blazer - Salinas, CA

I just want to thank you for the incredible job you did restoring my husbands college certificate. It looks great!!! I would recommend you to everyone!!! Thank You, Eva Blazer



From: Marion Geist Fuhrman - Claymont, DE

You did an outstanding piece of work on my copy of "Brilliant Diamonds of Poetry and Prose", by Rev. O.H. Tiffany, DD, Editor, brought to you by Lloyd Webber..... It looks like a new book. My Grandfather gave the book to my father 116 years ago. I received the book in 1962. It is a treasure to me. I thank you very much for restoring the book for me. Sincerely, Marion Geist Fuhrman



From: Grace W. Klie - Wayne, NJ

Dear Sir; A note of thanks and appreciation for the fantastic work you did on my old family Bible. I greatly appreciate all the careful and intricate work it must have required, especially considering its sad state of repair. The Bible will always be a treasure to me. I would gladly recommend your company to anyone considering book restoration. Thank you again, so much. Sincerely, Grace W. Klie



From: American Camillia Society - Fort Valley, GA

I am writing this letter as a recommendation for book restoration work by L. Edward Stansell, 2525 Ebright Road Wilmington, Delaware 19810. Three years ago we were advised that Mr. Stansell was a very capable book restorer and had done some restoration work for Longwood Gardens and Winterthur. We had Mr. Stansell take a large book, printed in 1669, and bind it in leather and letters according to the way it would have been in 1669. The book was truly a masterpiece. We also had him take apart a three volume work of a series of books in the 1850's. He carefully took them apart and rebound them to look exactly like the other ten volumes of the same set of books. We found his work outstanding and his prices well within a reasonable range. If we had further work on books we would certainly ask Mr. Stansell to do them. Sincerely yours, Milton H. Brown Executive Director



From: Marilyn McVicker - Bakersville, NC

Hello, Mr. Stansell, I am in receipt of my Bible, which you restored to virtually like-new condition! It is gorgeous! The binding, the pages, the red color on the edges--- look better than even when it WAS new! Thank you for taking the time to do such a beautiful job. It is a joy to hold in my hands. I have been unable to put it down, and reach for it, just for the lovely feel it is in my hands. Thank you. Marilyn McVicker



From: John Lewis - Bristol, RI

Dear Mr. Stansell, The most appreciative thanks for your painstaking care and virtuosity in the restoration of the volume Gettysburg National Parks Reports 1893-1904. It stands now handsomely on the mantel as the fourth and final element of the quartet of volumes, Pennsylvania at Gettysburg and Pennsylvania at Chickamauga, all coordinately done and wrought to regal elegance by your hand. What treasures. Thank you for all you have done. Best Regards, John Lewis



From: Jay Dallett - Wilmington, DE

I didn't feel that I expressed my thanks fully after leaving you Saturday. You have perfected a fine art that I had little appreciation for prior to seeing my book restored. I now understand why such a task takes time and steady, caring hands. My idea of what had to be done was far too simplistic. Thank you, Jay Dallett



From:Mary Kay Fry - Santa Barbara, CA

Mr. Stansell, I've received my bible and am extremely happy with the beautiful, exquisitely crafted restoration you did for me. Both the materials and the master fabrication are greatly appreciated. Thank you very much. Mary Kay Fry



From: Matthew Myers - MS

Mr. Stansell, I received my Bible this afternoon. It is even better than I expected, I am very pleased with it and I shall treasure it. I think this may be the best money I ever spent, for any reason. Many thanks, you have done a wondeful job. Sincerely, Matt Myers



From: Cynthia Becker - Kennett Square, PA

I wanted to drop a note to thank you so much for completing the book well in advance of Father's Day. It looks just great and I can not wait to give it to my Dad. He will be so surprised and excited! Again, thanks very much for doing such an awesome job and for helping make my Dad's Father's Day special. I hope you enjoy the day as well. Cindy Becker




From: Michael N. Butera - Houston, TX

Mr. Stansell, The book did arrive this afternoon. You did an absolutely superb job in restoring it. The restoration job was truly much, much better than I could have ever imagined possible. The transformation was absolutely magical. I'm not sure if I mentioned this, but I wanted the NT restored so that I could present it as a Christmas present to my mom -- it was her father's NT he carried in WWII. Thanks to your (literally) magical work, this little volume will be in our family for years and years to come. The work was worth every penny and then some -- you've made it absolutely priceless. Thanks so much for your hard work and superb craftsmanship! Most sincerely, Michael Butera



From: Superior Court of the State of Delaware

Ms. Lynn Wallace Smith Lorain County Record Center 320 N. Gateway Boulevard Elyria, OH 44035 RE: Letter of Recommendation CRAFT BOOKBINDING COMPANY Edward Stansell Ms. Smith: For almost forty years, Mr. Stansell and the Craft Bookbinding Company provided Judgement Index books to the New Castle County (NCC) Prothonotary's Office, the clerk of the Superior Court. As more and more court services were computerized and moved to Web based, the need for Mr. Stansell's Company and services declined. In the early 1990's, the NCC Prothonotary's Office needed several large, old Civil Docket books and Judge Index books repaired. These old docket books contained valuable official Superior Court case data which needed to be preserved for an indefinite period of time. The Craft Bookbinding Company was contacted to provide the repair service. Mr. Stansell and Craft Bookbinding repaired all the docket and Judgment books at a fair price, in a timely fashion and with excellent workmanship. I recommend Mr. Edward Stansell and Craft Bookbinding Company for any new or restoration binding work. If you have specific questions, I can be reached at the above number. Sincerely, Sharon D. Agnew NCC Prothonotary



From: Mary Kay Fry - Incline Village, NV

Thank you so much for taking the time to send me the photos. Your work is beautiful and will last many, many years! Thanks again. Mary Kay Fry



From: Oscar Abela - Lake Placid, FL

Hi Ed: I received the book and am extremely pleased with the wonderful job you did. I will definitely keep you in mind for all my further restoration needs. Best regards, Oscar Abela



From: Andrea Eykyn - Charleston, SC

Dear Mr. Stansell, I am truly sorry that I have taken so long to tell you how pleased I am with your restoration of my family bible. It looks wonderful and has brought me many moments of wonder and joy since I am no longer hesitant to turn the pages and read the inscriptions. Thank you so very much for the fine, masterful restoration you have performed . I received a phone message from your wife today. YES, I would be most grateful to have the photos of the Bible before you transformed it. Thank you for thinking of me. I will not hesitate to recommend your services to anyone who is need of bookbinding/restoration. And again, thank you so very much for bringing my family bible back to life. Sincerely, Andrea Eykyn



From: Eliot K. Nymeyer - Crete, IL

Sir; You are finally getting an "official" Thank You! for the excellent bookbinding job you did on my two Bibles. The work is quality and "re-makes" both books. Both are usable again and makes a person able to take them to church. My tendency to use rubber bands and duct tape is really not appropriate. You re-doing of the inner works (the various loose or damaged pages of these Bibles) has also been wonderfully done. Many thanks for the nice work!!! With kind regards, Eliot K. Nymeyer



From: James W. (Bill) Parker, M.D. - Somerset, KY

We recently received the two Bibles you repaired and shipped off Kathy's Bible to her. As her Bible was in much worse condition, we carefully examined it before sending it off to her. That Bible is one of her main sources of comfort in trying times. She uses it in intercessory prayer many times a day, and is like a part of her. We were very concerned about the repair, and how she would accept it. The repair was outstanding. The Bible was beautiful and returned to a totally functional basis. The many repaired pages still allows new markings to be done as she studies, and the chapters that had previously been falling out are now a part of the whole. The leather covering and lettering on the binding and the cover is magnificent. The repair was far better than we had hoped, and we were very thankful. We shipped the Bible over night to where Kathy was on vacation, and she was equally pleased. My Bible was not as critical to me, as I use multiple translations and have Bibles both at home, at work, and usually even in my car. However, this Bible was my favorite, and had more notes than any other one in my collection. I had hated having the leather cover begin to rip, and had tried to protect it from further harm, but it still progressively worsened. When I got home to see my Bible, I found my "friend" resurrected, and looking better than it had when it was brand new. The cover is much finer, and inside binding is wonderful. Both Kathy and myself thank you for a super job, and I can definitely recommend you to anyone who desires quality, custom bookbinding repair. James W. (Bill) Parker, M.D. Somerset, KY



From: William Welch - Dallas, TX

Dear Mr. Stansell, I received our restored family bible today. Thank you! The restoration is magnificent and much more than I would ever have expected especially since the original condition was pretty bad. My Great - Grandfather Highsmith would be proud. My sister is a missionary with Wycliffe Bible translators, and she will really appreciate seeing the result of your hard work. I didn't realize what a work of art and history our bible is. Before I was afraid to touch it in fear of doing damage. Thanks again, William Welch PS We have another Family Bible from my Mother's side. When I save up a little I would like you to look at it. It's a little older, but in much better shape



From: Weatherford Design Co. - Tecumseh, MI

Ed, - A quick note to thank you for the terrific restoration work on the M & H Schrenkeisen Furniture Catalog. I am very pleased. Jeff



From: Catherine Schmid - Tampa FL

Hello Ed, My Bible arrived today in the mail. It looks great, you did a fantastic job and it was well worth the wait. Thank you very much, Catherine Schmid



From: Brian O'Bannon - Cypress, CA

Mr. Stansell, I got my bible today. It is wonderful!! I am very pleased. Thank you very much!!! Brian Paul O'Bannon



From: Michael Pool - Waynesboro, TN

Thanks again for the great job on my Bible, Michael



From: Dr. Shawn D. Johnson - Wheeler, TX

I just received back my Bible. It looks and feels great. Thank you so much. If there is anyone who needs to use me as a reference for your work, feel free to have them contact me. Dr. Shawn D. Johnson Wheeler, Texas



From: Daniel Heffernan - Howell, NJ

Ed - The Bible was delivered today. My wife and I are very pleased with it and happy that it could be restored. You did a wonderful job and it looks great. Thanks for your guidance and suggestions. They were most helpful. Regards, Dan



From: Thelma Johnson - Hobbs, NM

Hi, Just received the old deed you restored and framed for me. It is beautiful!! The work you did to save it for me was excellent. The frame matches the document. It was an excellent job all the way around. Thank you very, very much. Thelma Johnson



From: Steve Sparhawk - Olympia Washington

Ed, Thanks for calling. Yes, I did receive the bible and the work you've done is wonderful. Thank you very much. You obviously are a first rate craftsman which is hard to find nowadays. Thanks again Steve



From: Elizabeth Brinkley - Cambridge, MA

I meant to send this a week ago, to thank you for doing such a good, quick job on David Stone's dissertations. I remembered seeing the quotation in your shop and thought it was appropraite. In case he didn't tell you himself, the secretaries who collect these things in the Harvard graduate office thought it was the handsomest work anyone's dissertations arrived in. Glad I got to meet you! Have a good summer, Elizabeth Brinkley



From: Nelida Flynn - Brightwater, NY

Dear Mr. Stansell and staff, 12/1/06 I received my Bible today. Thank you very much for the wonderful job you did on rebinding and restoring my bible. It was like having an old friend brought back to me. I will recommend your services to everyone I know. Thank you again! Have a wonderful Holiday. Sincerely, Nelida Flynn



From: F. Key Murray - Wilmington, DE

Dear Ed, Thanks for a very good restoration on my family Bible. I much appreciate it. Key Murray



From: Prickett, Jones, Elliot, Kristol & Schnee

This is a letter of recommendation for Stansell's Craft Bookbinding Company, particularly in the field of the restoration of old books as well as the special binding of books. Over the years, they have done a number of jobs for me and for this law firm. Their work has always been timely, first class, and their prices in this specialty have been reasonable. Very truly your, William Prickett



From: Wm. P. Frank, News-Journal Co. 1986

As a book collector and old time bibliophile, I want to testify to the ability of L.E. Stansell of Ebright Rd. near Wilmington, in the skill of bookbinding. Personally, I have known him for his care and devotion to this very important craft in the preservation of books, quite often under some very tiring and challenging conditions. In this era of ours, I consider Mr. Stansell a most unique craftsman. Very truly yours, Willim P. Frank News-Journal Co.



From: Robyn Greener - Watham, MA

Dear Ed, I just received the Bible and wanted to thank you for the wonderful job you did. It looks absolutely beautiful! I didn't realize before that there were images etched into the covers. You do amazing work and I am grateful for the time, effort, and expertise you put into it. I am sure Michael will love it when I give it to him at our wedding! Thank you, Robyn Robyn E. Greener, MS Contract Manager Business Operations PAREXEL International Corporation 200 West Street Waltham, MA 02451 Phone: (781) 434-5559 Fax: (781) 434-5992



From: Kim Stewart - Carlsbad, CA

Dear Ed, Thank you so much for restoring our beloved Family Bible. My daughter was very exited to add her name! It's perfect. Thanks again, Km Stewart



From: Michael Butera - Houston, Tx

The second volume arrived today. Absolutely BEAUTIFULLY done! As always, the work was far above expectations. Thanks so much for the professional craftsmanship and superb work. Well worth the wait and investment. Many thanks, Michael Butera



From: David Redwine, M.D. - Bend, OR

Ed, 'Fibroids and Allied Tumours' arrived safe and sound in Bend today. It looks great. You guys did a great job. I feel like I can open the book without breaking it. Thanks David Redwine



From: Frank Camp - Potomac, MD

Mr. Edward Stansell's skill in restoring my book was nonpareil. The book; "The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam", was published in 1906 and is no longer in print. This version is a translation by George Roe and features many explanatory footnotes. My copy was a family heirloom and was badly damaged by an incompetent bookbinder. The binding was improper causing the pages to break at the spine and transparent tape was used which had turned brown over the years. Ed successfully restored the pages, removed the offending tape and correctly bound the book in a new cover. The book is now completely restored and usable. Persons wishing to restore damaged books would be well served by Mr. Stansell. Frank Camp fscamp@erols.com



From: Rolf D. Peterson - Haslett, MI

Ed: What Joy!!!! I received the restored 'Confession of Faith' edition and am very pleased at the results! You did a wonderful job and I want to personally thank you for your craftmanship and just know that my family will enjoy this for many generations to come. If I can be a personal testimony please feel free to use my name. I will also recommend you to anyone that I might meet that is looking for this kind of work. Rolf Peterson



From: Richard Stephenson - Cornwall, UK

Ed; Just came back from the Post Office and there it was - I got the book. Must say you and your team are "Artists". I am very impressed and very satisfied with your work - well spent money. Thanks and hope to do business again in the near future - Job Well Done! Cheers Rik



From: Ann Soderman - Fayetteville, GA

Hi Ed, I received my Bible today. I could tell by the way it was carefully wrapped and packaged that you are indeed a craftsman who values and strives for excellence in your work. That is greatly appreciated. I love the navy blue color. I am recommending you and your company to a friend of mine who needs to have her Bible rebound. Thank you for demonstrating high standards, and for your prompt and courteous phone and e-mail responses. I know that, Lord willing, I will treasure using my Bible for many more years to come.Is there anything I need to do periodically to take care of the leather binding? Your work is superb, and I want to make sure I keep the binding in the best condition possible. Ann



From: Delight W. Dodyk - Ridgewood, NJ

Dear Ed, I apologize for not getting back to you when the bibles arrived—which they did in very timely fashion. My nephew is thrilled with his, the 1888 volume. (The other hasn’t been given yet, but I am thrilled). Both books look splendid and are very much appreciated. Your preservation of the very damaged first page of the older book is beautifully done and preserves well the inscription. It is such a pleasure to have these family heirlooms in lovely looking and very useable condition. Thank you very much for your superior work. Best and cheers, Delight



From: Donald J. Sachs - Detroit, MI

Hi Ed, I received my restored prayer book in time for it to be presented to me by my daughters on the occasion of my 'second' Bar Mitzvah at our synagogue. Thank you so much for making that possible. The restoration that you performed on my damaged prayer book is truly remarkable and exceeded my expectation. I can't thank you enough for doing what you did and returning it to me in time for my special occasion. Don Sachs



From: Steven P. Cook, M.D. - Wilmington, DE

Once again, I can't thak you enough for the beautiful job you did binding my antique medical books. As you know, these books were purchased fro the library of the Philadelphia College of Physicians and some are well over a hundred years old. The beautiful job you did maintaining the book covers and marbleized end pieces lends a particular air of authenticity and of course your leather work and gold printing makes the books more than a collector's item: more a piece of art work. As I collect further books that may need work, you can be assured I will send my business to you. Sincerely yours, Steven P. Cook, M.D.



From: Deborah Ford - Opelika, AL

The bible arrived today. It's looks absolutely wonderful. I can't believe the binding. It's like it was never messed up. And the individual pages you restored are immaculate. I just can't imagine how much time, talent, and effort this took. You evidently truly love your work. Thank you so very much. You have returned a family treasure to it's beauty and relevance. Sincerely, Debbi Ford



Rosamand L. duPont Books - Kennett Square, PA

Dear Ed; The book arrived in beautiful shape. The spine looks perfect and I can't tell if you did put the leather covers on or not. Its a great job and many thanks. Best regards, Roz PS. Let me know if you just added the new spine or if you did the whole book?



From:Michael F. Bowman - Brighton, MI

Thank you so much for both the Bibles! I just received the second one,and it looks beautiful! These will be treasured for years to come. Regards, Mike Bowman



From: Rex Bristol - Burkburnett,TX

I'm sorry I did not email sooner...I received the cookbook about 1.5 weeks ago and I'm impressed with the work on the hard cover. I never expected to cover to look like the original. Thanks for preserving this book for years to come. Rex Bristol



From: Michael Diederich - San Mateo, CA

Ed, WOW John Milton is resting easier tonite because of the great restoration you performed. Thanks so much. You ARE an artist. Best regards, Michael



From: John Monts - Spring Hill, TN

I picked the books up the other day at the post office and wanted to let you know how thrilled I am with the work. The Elfstones of Shannara looks brand new, and you can't even tell that one of them had a sticker!! I could not be more satisfied and wanted to thank you for your excellent work. Thanks again, John



From: Scott Simons - Key West, FL

Sorry I took so long to get back to you.Thank you so much for the great job you did on my Beatrix Potter volumes. I'm very much looking forward to reading them to kmy grandson when the time comes. Again,Thank you for the great job. Sincerely yours, Scott Simons



From: Cynthia Hubard Spangler - Memphis, TN

Mr. Stansell, I just received the two books that you did for me and I want to tell you how absolutely thrilled I am with how they look, their beauty, and the quality of the work that you did. It's simply outstanding and I just cannot thank you enough. You restored two books that I thought were hopeless and I swear they're just gorgeous. I cannot wait to show them to my elderly mother, who will be thrilled beyond words. Thank you again. I have more books to send you, but I'll probably wait until after Christmas to get them to you. Thank you so very much. I really do appreciate it. Yours, Cynthia Spangler



From: Catherine Juchau - Glendale, AZ

Dear Ed, My hymn book arrived a little while ago. I am thrilled with how it turned out. I am also very excited that the signature of my 2nd great-grandmother was able to be kept bound in the book since she was the original owner. Thank you for making an effort to keep all the signatures. Also, I was delighted to find a sketch included in the pages that could not be rebound…this sketch of the town must have been glued to one of the boards because I do not recall having seen it before I sent the book off to you for repair. Thank you again for this wonderful gift to me and my family for generations to come. It’s perfect!!! Cathy



From: Gerry Keffer - Eagle River, AK

Thanks, I received the Bible and it looks GREAT! Are you sure about the final amount charged?? I thought that it would be a bit more… Gerry If you meet me and forget me, you lose nothing. If you meet Jesus and forget Him, you lose everything. If you haven't met Jesus, allow me to introduce Him to you.



From: Lauren Andersen - Wilmington, DE

Mr. Stansell, I received the Bible yesterday and it is beautiful. Thanks so much. Lauren Andersen



From: Richard Desharnais - Lowell, MA

Hello Ed, We received the restored family bible and we can’t be more pleased with the work. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and anybody else that worked on this project. I don’t know if this was a typical restoration but I can tell you it means the world to my wife. Thank you, Richard Desharnais



From: Amanda Glesmann - Palo Alto, CA

Dear Mr. Stansell, I just wanted to thank you for doing such a beautiful job on my MA thesis. I'm thrilled with how well it turned out.... Sincerely, Amanda Glesmann Palo Alto, CA



From: Amanda Blair - Burns, TN

I received the family bible yesterday. Thank you for you wonderful craftsmanship on this priceless family heirloom. Sincerely, Amanda Blair



From: Randy Botti - Kamuela, HI

Wow, great job, got it today. It's a treasure. Thank you Randy Botti randy@walaaumedia.com www.twitter.com/walaaumedia.com www.walaaumedia.com



From: James Pate - Las Vegas, NV

Ed, The four books are back now, with no damage whatsoever in shipment. It is nice to have them again in usable form. Your quality will be remembered long after the cost has been forgotten. James



From: Judy Worth - Broxton, GA

THE BIBLE CAME TODAY. IT LOOKS GOOD. THANK YOU. MY DAD JUST DIED AND I JUST WISH HE COULD OF SEEN IT. HE WOULD OF BEEN REALLY PLEASED. JUDY WORTH



From: Charles Robinson , Hartfield House - Kennet Sq., PA

I just have to repeat myself. The job you did on the Burns volume dazzles me. How you ever made a front cover from a back and did it so neatly that it looks as though it should always have been that way.... well, it's highly skilled artistry and I am so grateful to you. Sincerely, Charles Robinson



From: Carol Merrill - - Peoria, AZ

We received our Family Bible yesterday and love it. You did an excellent job in restoring it. Thank you so much. Carol Merrill



From: Edward Hawkin - Dover, DE

Hi Ed, The bibles arrived and they look absolutely wonderful. You did a super job restoring my mom's bible, and I like the feel of mine as it is much larger and the soft cover makes it handle much easier. Ed Hawkins



From: Albert H. Murray - Brooksville, KY

I Received my Blue Jackets Manual last week and wanted to let you know that I am Very, Very pleased with the results of your work. The manual means a lot to me as it was given by a retired sailor who received it from his dad. My goal is to pass it on to my grandson who will hopefully served our great country just as I have. Thanks again and God Bless you and God Bless America. Albert Murray



From: Laura Stephens - Laurens, SC

Ed, I received the book today. It looks great! Thank you so much for making it last another 100 years. I will be sure to tell anyone who asks what a quality job that you do at Craft Bookbinding. If you would like to use this on your recommendations page of your web site, feel free. Take care, Laura



From: Carol Edwards - Downingtown, PA

Dear Craft Bookbinding: I wanted to express in writing how pleased our family was with your work on our 1902 Sears & Roebuck catalogue. I really struggled over whether it was worth it....your expertise comes at a high cost...but I'm SO very glad we went ahead with the complete book refurbishing. The catalogue was a valued family memory and we are so glad to now be able to hand it down to the next generation knowing it is in such good shape. Before we had the catalogue repaired, we didn't want to turn the pages for fear one would be ripped out or lost. What good is a book you are afraid to open?? Now, we laugh at the "old-timey" women's wear and seemingly incredibly cheap cost of goods. One could truly buy everything FOR your house INCLUDING the house from this turn of the century catalogue. Times have changed, but we're glad skilled workmanship such as yours is timeless. Again, our many thanks, Carol Edwards and family



Michael Chavez - Columbus, MS

Mr. Stansell, I just received my 1895 Combination Family Bible and it is immaculate! You have turned an old neglected Bible into a treasured masterpiece. You are indeed a Master Craftsman. Thank you. God Bless you and your family! Sincerely, TSgt Michael Chavez United States Air Force



Melinda Avila - Rancho Cordova, CA

Ed, The book looks FANTASTIC, thanks so much, what a wonderful job. Melinda Avila



From: Mark Lessard - New York, NY

Hi Ed: I wanted to let you know that the Tocqueville books were beautifully done. Thanks for the fine craftsmanship. Best regards, Mark



From: Betsy R. Knox - Ooltewah, TN

Mr. Stansell: Thank you so much for sending my Bible. You have done a wonderful job. It is amazing. What a transformation! I will surely recommend Craft Bookbinding in the future, should anyone ask me of reputable book restoring company. Thank you again and best regards. Betsy R. Knox



From: Sharon Lebherz - Portola Valley, CA

Hi Ed, Just wanted to let you know that I've received the two copies of Ponga Boy and they are terrific! It was quite a long wait but ultimately, well worth it. Thank you for making it happen ~ my husband was quite surprised and pleased with his treasure; he was quick to notice the quality of the pages and cover (both covers). I'm certain Mr Reed will feel the same once he receives his copy, I haven't yet gifted it to him, but soon! Thanks again, ~Sharon~



From: Bruce Albrecht - Spring Green, WI

Hello Ed, I wanted to let you know that my book and slipcase arrived safely today. It's very nice work, and I'm already enjoying them. Thank you, Bruce Albrecht



From: Charles G. Maxfield - Landrom, SC

Hi, Just a note to thank you for such terrific work on restoring my leather bound "Our Fireman 1887" book. You did a wonderful job creating the new spine in replica of the original artwork of the book. I am really pleased with the book and have a couple more old books that I will send to you for restoration. Again thanks, Charlie Maxfield



Rom: John Reilly - Davenport, FL

Ed, I received the Bible on Saturday. It is FANTASTIC !!! Thank you very much for the care that you have given to it. Thanks, Jack



From: Walter Ord - Mc Dowell, KY

I received my dad's Bible in the mail yesterday and I just wanted to thank you for your work. The Bible is beautiful! It means so much to me. Thank you again.



From: Janie C. Dillon - Clemson, SC

Dear Ed, My grandfather’s log of the ship Charles A. Campbell arrived yesterday. From having talked with you more than once, I was expecting a really professional job of restoring this book. However, you have made it new and old all at once! What a superb job. You took a book we were afraid to touch and returned one that invites handling, albeit still with care. Thank you for suggesting that we de-acidify the pages. I find it reassuring to have had that done. Thank you for stabilizing the badly deteriorating fly page as well. The leather trim, while new, looks almost like it could have been the original. I am truly in awe at the beautiful work you have done. My son and two nephews are all sailors and will love being able to hold and read this book without fear of its crumbling in their hands. My grandfather would be honored. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Sincerely, Jamie



From: Paul Kelly - Mission Viejo, CA

Dear Ed, Thank you for such an incredible restoration on my 1947 Artist Book entitled "Felicia ou Mes Fredaines", which is one of only fifty examples produced that is complete with twenty original hand colored etchings by Louis Icart, along with a second suite of etchings in black. Unfortunately, the hard and soft cover and most every page of this highly sought after book were heavily water damaged and full of mildew and mold. So much so, that both the hard and soft cover were unsalvageable and had to be replaced, as well as many of the pages were falling apart and had to be mended, as well as washed, bleached, and re-sized. When I purchased this book, I had no real idea of the severity of damage and thought for sure when I saw it first hand that it was not a candidate for restoration and would've been a better candidate to have been cannibalized for the etchings. So, when I initially emailed photos of it to you of its condition, I still had my reservations when you had stated that it could be restored. The thing is... I've been in the business of selling fine art for nearly thirty years, having specialized in original works by Louis Icart, and I have seen works on paper first hand that were "supposedly" restored that didn't come close to the quality that you had performed on this rare book. Not only am I truly impressed with its outcome, but I'm ecstatic as well. Thanks again, Paul Kelly PKELLYFINEART Mission Viejo, CA



From: Ted Anderson - Conway, SC

Ed, Received the bible yesterday.We are elated,your workmanship was excellent.We are so happy to have it restored.Some of the names of my ancestors listed are traced through Genealogy through the Civil war,Revolutionary War and the early settlement of Virginia.They can be traced all the way back to Charlemagne.Thanks so much for your excellent work.We would be happy to recommend your restoration service.Again much thanks for your efforts. Ted Anderson



From: Peggy Spellman - Wellesley, MA

Ed and Sandy, Peggy and Peter is so beautifully restored, my eyes filled with tears when I saw it! Thanks you so much for your excellent work. I'll keep your card ready so I can recommend you to friends. Thanks again, Peggy



From: Linda Harris - Palm Harbor, FL

Dear Emily, 3-8-2011 Today I opened the package containing the treasured childhood book that belonged to my father-in-law. I found it to be a marvelous transformation from the well-used book he loved as a child. We never dared to share it with our boys for fear of totally destroying the pages, but now I think that as the grandbabies visit it will be our pleasure to share it with them. The thing I like the most is that the book retains its age. Thank you so much Emily for your painstaking diligence and attention to detail in the restoration. This is a family heirloom that you have restored to us. Be well, Linda Harris



From: Elmwood Cemetery - Memphis, TN

Mr. Stansell, I’m sorry I wasn’t here Friday when you came. The book is wonderful!!. I’m so glad you were able to save so much of the leather on the covers, and the spine with its new printing looks great. I know the board members who contributed will be pleased with the plaque on the inside. I plan to show the book to them at the next board meeting on July 25. The pages really look good, too. We are amazed by your craftsmanship, and hope to get another book to you soon. Jorja



From: Jimmy Askew - Bartlett, TN

Hi Ed, Again, I wish to say how pleased I am with the work you did on our family Bible. I have another book which I would like to have redone. It is a 1968 dictionary I got during my college days. I would like to have it restored to the way it looked when new. Jimmy



From: Nancy O'Dell - Morristown, TN

Dear Mr. Stansell, I am still in awe of your unique talents, and hope that you are training an apprentice to help you and learn how to carry this art to further generations. I also want to tell you that every time a finished book arrived, I have said, "Oh, Sam would have SO loved what has been done for this book. I appreciate your patience with me during such a difficult period of my life. Looking forward to this book. Sincerely, Nancy O'Dell



Jean Marie Guerville - La Queue en Brie, France

Cher Monsieur
EDOUARD
Le livre est arrive
C'est vraiment formidable merci beaucoup felicitations
C'est un tres beau travail je suis heureux de voir un
livre que vous avez sauvé ilfaut restauré les livres mais
il faut sauver des Artistes comme vous pour que ces livres
qui nous sont chers passent a la generation suivante Toute
ma reconnaissance Je vous recontacte prochainement tres
cordialement

Dear Monsieur Edward,

The book has arrived. It is really great. Congratulations on a very good job. I am happy to see that you have restored a book that really must be saved. But, you must really save the likes of you, so that books that are dear to us can be passed on to the next generation.

I will contact you again soon.

Cordially,

Jean Marie Guerville




From: Walter Ord - McDowell, KY


Ed,

I got my Bible today. It is beautiful! Thank you!


Walter Ord









From: Jonathan Blum - Anchorage, KY

Hi Edward,

I just returned from a business trip and opened your package with the Starbuck book. You did a phenomenal job and it was worth waiting for! Thank you very much for your excellent work with the new binding. It is much appreciated.

Regards, Jonathan




From: Troy Parham - Falls Branch, TN

Ed,

Just received our family bible which you recently restored and the results were far greater than I expected. You definitely lived up to your reputation.

Thanks,

Troy Parham
Fall Branch TN.




From: Ruth Durst - Milton, DE

Just received the Poe Book--it is wonderful and I am sure my grand daughter will be pleased; I know I am.

Thanks you again,

Ruth Durst




From: Jan Ryan - Stratford, CT

Dear Sandy and Ed,

My husband and best friend just surprised me with my Journal.

I am at a loss for words. The leather cover is beautiful, and your kindness and generosity have touched me so very deeply. Sandy, your inspirational emails are now part of my journal and a comfort when the pain gets bad.

Thank you both from the bottom of my heart. You have given me so much more than a bookbinding. I will never forget this.

With much gratitude,

Jan Ryan




From: Karl Ott - Mountain Home, Idaho

Edward,
I received my Tarzan The Untamed today and it looks great! Thank you for doing an excellent job.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Karl Ott
Mountain Home, ID




From: Margaret Perez - Southern Pines, NC

Love it, love it, love it!

Margaret




From: James Ong - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Ed,

Retrieved the books from the post office today. I am totally delighted and extremely satisfied with your rebacking of the books. Many thanks for a job well done. It was well worth the wait. They are the very best volumes in my collection of angling literature.

James.




From: Julian Jamison - Cambridge, MA

Hi Ed,

I just wanted to let you know that the books arrived safely today. The new bindings are beautiful!

Julian




From: John Burke - Victoria, BC Canada

Hi Edward:

I received the bible on Thursday, March 9. It looks great and I really love it. I like the sheen the cover has now. I haven't had a chance to go through it page by page yet, but hope to do so soon. It is even difficult to see where the binding was split. I don't think anyone would notice if they didn't know it had been broken. Thanks for your hard and skillful work.

Cheers,
John Burke




From: Vicki Crum - Houston, TX

I received my bibles today. They took a while but are so worth the wait. I was especially worried about the 1857 one but it looks wonderful now (as they all do). These treasures from my ancestors can now be enjoyed by our future generations.

Thank you!

Vicki Crum




From: Kenneth Knowles - Philadelphia, PA

I have been meaning to send you a note to say what a great job you did with the bible and to thank you. it looks great.

KK




From: Fred Hale - Delray Beach, FL

I received my book. Am very satisfied with the restoration you did and want to thank you for the work performed. I will recommend Craft Book Binding.

Sincerely,

Fred Hale




From: Eric Leon Bradley - Anthony, NM

Ed,
I received the Cat In The Hat yesterday and may I thank you for a job well done. The book looks fantastic. You are truly a Master Bookbinder.

Most Respectfully,
- Eric Leon Bradley




From: Jim Havens - Columbia, TN

Just wanted to let you know that we received the bible today.
Thank you so much for doing such a wonderful job. We plan to give this bible that belonged to my grandmother to our eight year old granddaughter when she makes her first communion in May of next year.
Is there anything that we should do to help keep it new?

Again, thanks for the great job.

Jim Havens




From: Robbie Hayter - Lebanon, TN

I received it [Family Bible]today. It is magnificent. I am so pleased. I hope you took some before and after pics. It was your online pictures that got my attention. I’m sure you’ll be getting another bible from one of our providers here at the office that was here when I opened it. Thank you and many thanks to all those who worked on it. I’ll be sure to post a review on your page singing praises.

Robbie Hayter




From: Dawn Formo - Myrtle Beach, SC

Hi Edward,

I received the Bible yesterday and it looks amazing! Thank you so much!

Dawn




From: Chris Martin - Austin, TX

Dear Mr. Stansell:
My cook book and the bound handwritten recipes arrived today in perfect condition. They are both BEAUTIFUL. Thank you so much for taking such good care of my family heirloom.
Gratefully,

Chris Martin




From: Joe & Gerry Sharpe - Cookeville, TN


Dear Ed;

We received the family Bible that you restored for us. My wife and I are so pleased with the job you did. I remember trying to read that Bible as a young boy and it was in such bad shape that it was very difficult to do; the spine was broken and many of the pages were torn and coming out. Thanks to you it is now in great shape and hopefully future generations of Sharpes will read that Bible and know about their Christian heritage.

Thank you,
Joe and Gerry Sharpe




From: Russ Watkins - Parsippany, NJ

Hi Ed & Sandy,

Just wanted to take a moment and thank you for the fantastic job you did restoring my grandfather's Bible. The lettering on the front and the spine - which was so important - came out beautifully. Thank you so much for all your hard work. You've given me back a very special piece of my family's history. God bless you in all you do.

Sincerely,

Russ




From: Jennie Krych - Flagstaff - AZ

Hi Edward,

I received my Shakespeare book box today. Thank you for the great work. You are truly gifted!

Jennie Krych




From: Scott Dombroski - Tomecula, CA

Ed,

Books are here. They look fantastic. Great job!

Thanks,

Scott




From: Roberts Scheier - Downingtown, PA

Dear Ed,

I have received the Bible and I am very pleased with the work performed. Thanks very much to you and Sandy.

I do have one question for you however. Can please tell me if there are any particular steps I should take to care for the Bible going forward?

I would like to display it on a stand in a recess in our home. I do not believe it should be exposed to bright light. But as you are the expert, I wanted to ask your advice on storage and display.

I appreciate your response. Thanks again for your work.

Best regards,

Rob




From: Tim Andrasek - Boca Raton, FL

Dear Ed,

Just wanted to take the time to thank you for the work you performed on my copy of Scott’s Commemorative Stamps of the World stamp album.

Stamp collectors can be a fussy sort and very individualistic in their collecting habits. Selecting albums for their collection is one area that is important as once you add stamps, you are loathe to remove them to install in another album. I discovered that the Scott album I have is very rare and could be the last one around in the bound version. As I want to complete the album and exhibit my collection, the volume needed some work, especially in the addition of inserts as to prevent the album from bulging as it is filled. Let me say you’ve done a magnificent job!! I am in the process of transferring stamps into the volume and removing the serrated pages as I go.

I can’t wait to “show it off” during the winter stamp show season!!! It’ll make the other collectors go “green” as the album is green!

My heartfelt thanks again and I look forward to another time when I can use your services as I look for another album of interest out there/

Best regards,

Tim Andrasek




From: Kristofer Key - Lithia Springs, GA

Hey Ed,

I have looked over the diaries for awhile, they are amazing. You did a wonderful job

Sincerely,

Kris




From: Ann Seay - Adams, TN

Mr. Stansell,

I received the old family dictionary in the mail Monday morning. My husband, boys, and I were in complete awe to see it restored back to it's original condition. You did a fabulous job!! We closely examined the pages, spine, and covers asking each other, "How in this world did he do this?"
We are forever grateful for your talent and preserving this piece of history that otherwise would be lost.

Best Regards,
Ann Seay




From: Sue Kibler - Findlay, OH

I am very pleased with the high quality of workmanship on this tired old bear book. It has now passed to the fourth generation of girls in the family. Thank you so much for making {the bears} presentable, hopefully for many years to come.

Sue Kibler




From: Mark Sonk - Dearborn Heights, MI

Dear Mr. Stansell;

I'm sorry that this message has taken so long to send. I wanted to tell you that I think that the restoration done on my book was remarkable. Far better than I'd imagined it would be. Considering the pathetic state that it was in when I sent it to you folks, it appears, both inside and out, to be a totally different book. If anyone ever asks me to recommend this type of work or I ever need it again, then you and your company will be #1 on my list.

Thank you for the great job and Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Mark E. Sonk




From: Russ Auberg - NB Canada

Ed,

We received the Bible on New Years Eve.
It looked great and she was very pleased with it.
Thanks very much for doing the Bible ahead of others.
It is very much appreciated.
Thanks again,

Russ Auberg




From: Tom Waldrop - Senaca, SC

Ed

I received my family bible on Saturday and I am truly impressed. I spent most of the afternoon on Sunday looking through it page by page, enjoying things that I had never seen before. It was a beautiful and meticulous job. I posted a picture of it on Facebook and had several friends ask for a reference. You may be hearing from more folks from South Carolina soon. Thank you for a great job.

Tom.




From: Dale Schaefer - Memphis, TN

Ed & Sandy,

Hi. I just wanted to tell you how nice it was meeting you both last week and seeing your operation. It was fascinating. I thank you for taking the time to show me around and talk. The time went by very quickly. I didn’t realize until I left that I’d taken up nearly two hours of your workday. Sorry.

Everyone here was amazed at the book and thought it was beautiful. You’re an exceptional craftsman! I’m hoping we can get another book to you soon. It might also give me an excuse to come back over to Clifton! I enjoyed that drive.

Here is wishing you both the very best from Elmwood and a VERY chilly Monday in Memphis.



Sincerely,

Dale Schaefer




From: J.Dwight Hudson - Myrtle Beach, SC

Ed,

Got the Bible, of course, and I wanted to thank you again for a great job!

Sincerely,

Dwight Hudson




From: J.F. Wilson - Beaufort, SC

Dear Literary Artisans,

The carefully-packed, restored "Bandanna Ballads" arrived late last week, and I am delighted with the results of your expert work. I sat at once and examined each page and the binding which makes a unit of all those individual pages sent to you a year ago. You folks DONE GOOD!

I discovered this book on a discard pile where I volunteer; The Friends of the Library. Its shabby condition hid its potential but I dug it out and shared it with colleagues. They all thought it was charming -- but.... We meet again tomorrow and I know they will be surprised and pleased as I, at the quality of your restorative work.

Best wishes,

J. F. Wilson




From: Bob & Nancy Jackson - Harrogate, TN

Dear Mr. Stansell,

Thank you for the absolutely phenomenal repair you made to our 1599 Geneva Bible! We rejoice at the prospects of one day donating this beautiful Holy Bible to the Lincoln Memorial University's Special Collections Library where it periodically can be displayed publicly. The Special Collections Librarian noted the exceptional quality of your work and the reasonable price you charged.

Thank you again and many blessings to you!

Bob and Nancy Jackson
Harrogate, Tennessee




From: Joanna Pedagno - Holbrook, NY

Ed,
It is my understanding from your email that the volumes that I sent you are wet beyond repair and that you can purchase the exact same set of books and restore them to your satisfaction for me.

I've thought on this for the last few days and came to the conclusion that that would be acceptable and would keep in being with the spirit of having the books remain in our family. So yes, please proceed with the work.

Having said that, I am blown away by the fact that you could have just done what you proposed to do and never told me that the books were not the ones that I sent you and charged me the full price. You are one honest man, Mr. Stansell, and I am so happy to be doing business with someone of your character.

God bless you and yours,
Joanna







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