Bellows papers removal, how?

[WendyG]

I need to do some repairs to my Lachenal 20b bellows, which involves repairing the ridges. I thought that I could put the strips of leather around the ridges, but would like to remove the papers to ensure a good purchase for the glue (the papers are discoloured). What is the best and safest way to remove the papers? I remember reading somewhere that if you use water it can cause the leather to harden and crack. Do I need to remove every last bit of the paper or if some remains behind, will it show through the new papers? Any advice would be most welcome.

 

The bellows have holes just along one corner, but rather than just patching the holes thought it would be better to add new leather on all of the ridges and the bellows ends, the gussets and valleys appear alright.

 

Wendy

[David Helmore]

Hi Wendy

 

Papers can be removed with warm water - they can tear quite easily though! You can buy a new set of bellows papers from Dave Leese (that might be your best bet). Dave also sells the strips of leather which go round the edges of all the bellows - if you use this, you shouldn't need to remove the papers (i only remove them when the bellows damage is more serious). Also, don't forget to pick up a copy of the 'concertina repair manual' (which you can also pick up from Dave Leese) - essential reading!!!!

 

Good Luck

 

Dave

[WendyG]

Hi Wendy

 

Papers can be removed with warm water - they can tear quite easily though! You can buy a new set of bellows papers from Dave Leese (that might be your best bet). Dave also sells the strips of leather which go round the edges of all the bellows - if you use this, you shouldn't need to remove the papers (i only remove them when the bellows damage is more serious). Also, don't forget to pick up a copy of the 'concertina repair manual' (which you can also pick up from Dave Leese) - essential reading!!!!

 

Good Luck

 

Dave

 

Hi Dave

Have already put an order in with Dave Leese for various bits and pieces and one of my Christmas presents is the said manual!

 

Wendy