The Priory Bindery was formed in 1996 by Lee Prior an experienced craft bookbinder trained to the highest standard by the Benedictine monks of St. Michael's abbey Farnborough Hampshire. Clients included the British Museum, the Natural History Museum and Eton college, although many books were also bound in leather and cloth for individual customers. Lee spent six years at art college in Guildford Surrey before qualifying with credit and remained at the abbey for many years progressing to head bookbinder working along side other secular craftsmen. The position of manager was the next step which he remained in until 1994 before deciding on a new experience and left the country to work for the Vellum bindery in Adelaide Australia. After returning to the UK Lee sought another change and took up a position at C.D.Watmore's of Farnham Surrey who specialized in the binding of law books and university theses. After 18 months, Lee took the next step and formed his own business using the name 'Priory' in the title as a tribute to his time at St. Michael's Abbey.

 

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