_Signatures._--A neatly written out list of subscribers--especially when their number is large--is very convenient: it does not require individual personal appointments, nor involve risks of damage to the address. The actual signatures of subscribers, however, are of greater interest and sentimental value, and on such grounds are preferable to a mere list of names.
To avoid risks (or with a view to incorporating the signatures in the decorative scheme) the decoration, gilding, &c., may sometimes be deferred until _after the signing of the address_.
When the exact number and the names of the subscribers are known beforehand, lines may be provided for their signatures, marked with letters in alphabetical order (the proper number of lines under each). This method solves any difficulty in regard to _precedence_ in signing.
NOTE.--Ordinary signatures require about 1/2 inch by 3 inches space each. If there are many they may be conveniently arranged in two or more columns, according to the space available.
_Edges of parchment not to project beyond desk or table, lest they be creased._
_Paper to be provided to cover the address, with_ FLAPS _to raise when signing._
_When lines for signatures are grooved (p. 108), signatories to face the light (this makes the lines more evident)._
_Ink of one colour to be used if possible._
_Clean_, ORDINARY _pens to be provided, and pieces of paper for trying them on._ [p356]
_Framed Parchments._--The parchment may have--beyond the top and foot margins--spare pieces which (after the writing and illuminating is finished) are bent over the ends, and glued to the back, of a stout, white card, or millboard--covered with white or light coloured paper. Or--extra margin being allowed all round--the edges of the parchment are cut into tags or "scallops," and folded over an ordinary canvas stretcher, and well tacked at the back with small brads. The wedges are carefully adjusted till the parchment lies flat.
A parchment glued to the surface of a millboard is more convenient for framing, but has a less natural surface, and is not so easily managed by the penman as the plain, flexible parchment.
_Frames_ should be gold, black, or white; very plain, and generally without mounts. The parchment, however, must be framed so that there is no danger of any part of it coming into contact with the glass (as that, being damp, would lead to cockling).