Traditionally, illuminated addresses are presented in either scroll form or as framed panels. The finest material is calfskin vellum, which is prepared by hand using methods going back to the Middle Ages to achieve the perfect writing surface. An alternative is a good handmade paper in traditional white with black text, or in a more contemporary form in coloured text on one of the many tinted papers now available. Scrolls can be attached to a decorative roller and incorporate embroidered ribbons in suitable colours and gilt. They are often enclosed in a handmade scroll case in leather, lettered in gold and lined on the inside.

Top of page