Ars Obscura Bookbinding & Restoration Co

I brought in several books to get estimates on the cost of repair, and had arranged an appointment during work hours to come by this shop. The owner (Joel) seems knowledgeable about the work. However, when I arrived, he had his shirt completely unbuttoned. I ignored this (should not have) and a few minutes later he removed his shirt, saying that he was too warm. He was evaluating one of my books, and although I was increasingly uncomfortable there, felt stuck in this situation because he had my book.
I had parked at a meter and told him that I had very limited time so he quickly went through my remaining books. He then proceeded to write up estimates for me to take with me, along with my books (I was NOT going to leave them with him). I took that time to dash to the bathroom and returned within a few minutes. When I got back, he was zipping up his pants and then buckled his belt. I grabbed my books and left.
There is NO WAY I would ever go back here, even if he was the only person who did this work.
If you are a woman and decide to have your books repaired by him, I highly recommend that you not go alone to this shop.
I am going to find another book restoration shop that does quality work, but where I won’t need to be concerned about my safety.

Joel at Ars Obscura is one of the few remaining old world, renaissance-​style bookbinding craftsmen in the world. I have had two family-​heirloom volumes of priceless personal value, restored by Joel. Additionally he provided consulation and binding (including slipcase) on a custom, large-​format, book project that turned out absolutely amazing. Additionally, I turned to Joel for custom slip cases to protect several rare books in my collection.
I have also purchased several Ouroboros Press works that were also bound by Joel and I love them all. Unfortunately I am limited to just five stars but it is not enough for the amazing quality and attention to detail from Ars Obscura. Its very nice to have a Renaissance Artisan in our own backyard. His work is so amazing you will want to find place for it in your collection.

When it comes to hand bound leather books, you’ve got your work cut out for you if your gonna try finding someone better or more knowledgeable than Joel Radcliffe. This guy does amazing work and his dedication to his art and craft is so obvious. If you have a book in need of repair, or are looking for a custom journal and you happen to be in Pioneer Square and want to see a unique shop and exquisite workmanship, then have look down under.

Extremely professional and skilled book binder. We had a pipe burst in our home and many of my antique books were damaged in the ensuing flood. I had Ars Obscura do the restoration work on my most precious books and I couldn’t be happier. They look absolutely amazing! I think they look better now than when they were originally printed and bound