A bookmark helps keep tabs on a book without dog-earing the pages/ SHARON MWENDEAs a book lover, few things are more frustrating than discovering dog-eared pages in your book.
Those folded corners, whether intentionally or unintentionally left behind, can make your pristine novels look tattered.
While dog-ears are common, they can be avoided or fixed with a little care and attention.
This article gives insights on how you can deal with dog ears on books and keep your collection looking fresh.
The best way to handle dog ears is to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Here are a few strategies:
- Use bookmarks
The simplest and most effective way to avoid dog-earing pages is by using a bookmark.
A bookmark keeps your pages intact without the need to fold the corners.
Choose a bookmark that suits your style; whether it’s the traditional paper pluck or ribbon or pressed flower.
The good thing about this age is that there are book stores that give out free bookmarks when you purchase a book.
- Treat books gently
This is something every book lover instinctively knows - always be mindful when turning pages.
If you are reading in a hurry or with one hand, take a moment to ensure you are turning pages properly.
Slamming a book shut or bending it at odd angles can also cause the pages to crease.
- Use digital books or a kindle
If you are particularly sensitive about dog ears and other physical damage, try switching to e-books.
You won’t have to worry about folded corners, and many digital platforms offer convenient features for bookmarking passages.
How to fix dog-eared pages
If you already have a book with dog-eared pages, here's how you can fix them:
- Smooth out the corner
Gently unfold the corner of the page then use your thumb to smooth the crease back to its original position.
Be gentle, as applying too much pressure can tear the paper.
- Ironing
(with caution)
For stubborn dog ears, you can lightly iron the page using a low heat setting.
Place a clean piece of cloth over the book to avoid direct heat contact with the page.
Always test on a small, unimportant page first, as heat can be risky for fragile books.
- Professional
repair
If you are not confident in your DIY repair skills, consider seeking the help of a professional bookbinder.
This especially if the book is rare, a first edition or one you place some personal value.
Professionals can mend dog-eared pages and restore book pages to their original glory.
However, while it’s important to protect your books from excessive damage, remember that books are meant to be read, loved and enjoyed.
As much as book lovers would cringe to this, a few dog-eared pages don’t make a book any less special.
In fact, they can be a sign of a book that has been well-loved and frequently revisited.
Ultimately, a book’s worth isn’t measured by its condition but by the stories it contains.
Nonetheless, there are some steps you can take as a book lover to help others in your community, including teaching them book safety tips.
If you belong to a book club or are part of a larger book-loving community, discuss the importance of bookmarks; how to handle books carefully and how to fix minor damages like dog ears.
If you are a book lover and run a social media platform on the same, use the stage to educate.
Educating others can help preserve the integrity of shared books and foster a greater appreciation for book care.
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