Since its introduction a few years ago, the Society of Bookbinders' Conference Auction has become a much-anticipated highlight of both the Conference and Seminar. Typically held after dinner on the final evening, it not only brings members together but also raises essential funds to support bursaries and grants for deserving recipients.

This year's fun and lively auction followed the Conference Dinner and was expertly hosted by our regular auctioneer, Dominic Riley. Over £4000 was raised, uniting the members in an evening filled with generosity, laughter, and enthusiastic bidding. The funds raised will greatly contribute to the Society's Bursary programme, and the Society extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and donated!

On a personal note, I have to say I was absolutely captivated by the smart and vibrant waistcoats the Conference team sported throughout the event. Made from a classy fabric covered in patterns of old bindings and books, they were so impressive that I immediately inquired about acquiring one myself. Alas, my joy was short-lived when I tried on the largest waistcoat they had and discovered that it fit me like a corset on an over-stuffed sofa. Not exactly the look I was going for!

But all was not lost! Imagine my delight when I learned that the leftover fabric-around four meters of it-was up for grabs in the auction. My excitement was barely containable. As the lot came up, I clutched my paddle, ready for battle. The bidding was fierce, but eventually, I emerged victorious, paying an undisclosed (and let's just say, probably unreasonable) sum for my prize! As soon as the auction helper handed me the cloth, friends at my table (and from neighbouring tables) descended with puppy-dog eyes, begging for a slice of the treasure. Being the soft touch I am, I handed out half of the material to these devious, fabric-hungry individuals.

Naturally, people asked what I was planning to do with my remaining fabric. Would I (or, more likely, would I convince Debbie) to make a sleek and stylish waistcoat? Or maybe go for something bold, like a toga? Debbie quickly made it clear what she thought of the waistcoat idea, so a toga it was! And yes, there is photographic evidence to prove it!

Now, here's the best part: at the beginning of November, this gorgeous fabric will be leaving the UK in my suitcase and making its way to the Guild of Book Workers' Standards of Excellence Seminar in Providence, Rhode Island, where it will be auctioned off once again. Don't worry, I won't be bidding-once bitten, twice shy-but maybe I can convince our illustrious President, Marc Lamb (who will also be attending), to throw his hat in the ring and bring it back to the UK for the next Society auction. Here's hoping!

David Lanning

Director - J Hewit & Sons Ltd.
Past President - Society of Bookbinders

...although I suspect both the Company and the Society may want to disassociate themselves from me after reading this!