The Repairing & Restoration of Violins

The Repairing & Restoration of Violins by Horace Petherick is a practical, experience-based manual for violin makers, restorers, collectors, and enthusiasts. With the precision of a craftsman and the insight of a historian, Petherick delves into the multifaceted world of violin repair—from structural damage to aesthetic restoration. This work is not merely theoretical; it is grounded in decades of hands-on practice, chronicling the authors own encounters with countless repairs and restorations. Petherick categorizes common issues that afflict violins—cracks, worn parts, soundpost and bridge alignment, varnish restoration, and more—and offers detailed guidance on approaches and techniques for addressing them. While acknowledging that not every minor ailment can be exhaustively catalogued, the book provides enough grouped examples and case studies to equip the reader with essential restoration skills. Blending technical instruction with personal anecdote, the book also reflects on the emotional satisfaction, challenges, and fine judgment involved in violin repair. Whether for the novice repairer or the professional luthier, this book remains a cornerstone in the craft of string instrument preservation.