There are many lap desks that have significant damage to their leather slope because of age, lack of care, vandalism, and just plain overuse. These were the laptop computers of their age and many professionals who were traveling on train, horse, and boat used them. In many cases their history is fascinating — filled with stories, past experiences, and as many will note — “scars” (little nicks and damage).
They (Antique Lap Desks) have traveled hundreds of years and are now with us. In many cases the leather slopes need care — they have been thru a lot, and often replacement is warranted. There are many cases though where this is not the case. In some slopes, there is a beautiful examples of antique leather designs and tooling that makes you reconsider replacement. There are also slopes that are not leather — they might be felt (velvet), linen, natural wood, and paper. What do you do to keep their original beauty, and still make them usable?
Just a tip from someone who has repaired desks for a while. Please remember replacing the slope covering completely does takes time and money. It also requires precision and patience which can lead to mistakes of various degree. Tape could be the answer for you! They make various kinds of tape now that match with slopes colors and designs. The following are some of the tapes that I use regularly:
- Bookbinding Tape
- Leather Tape
- Duck Brand Tape
- Linen Tape
Some purists are now up in arms reading this — HOW DARE YOU use tape on such beautiful antiques!! Well in some cases it keeps the original beauty of desk while minimizing repair time. It also matches with the aesthetics of the box you are trying to bring back to life. You are either repairing it to use yourself or for re-sell — then as long as you and/or buyer is happy, and the desk is back to working condition, then it’s the right choice.
The desks slopes fray or detach at the base many times due to repeated opening and closing (remember they have been used for centuries). It also can happen after storing too long in bad temperature areas (they crack if dry — thinking of leather). It can be so many factors that cause some damage to a slope. In many cases it is only the “connection” joint that is the problem. The part where the material slope connects to the actual lid and base.
In those cases where the slope is beautiful, and only the “connection” joint is the only problem (meaning everything else is perfect or you don’t want to change) — tape is your perfect solution. This solution is not good for all desks, and really is up to the individual. What we all want is to bring these objects back to life and begin using them again.
The rest is easy — it only requires you matching the type of tape to desk slope and measuring/cutting to fit the specific area you need. Please remember this “tape” suggestion works best with leather slopes. Also there are various kinds of tape within groups mentioned above — colors, thickness, look — find the right one for your desk/box!
