Design Books

The book is well layed-out, and descriptions are clear and concise. The first 95 pages or so are relatively basic. I have used a crusty version of Homesite to create a few basic Websites in-the-past, so those first 95 pages didn't teach me anything that I didn't already know. Except perhaps for the design and paper and pencil preparation.

After page 95 (or so), you jump right into Dreamweaver and are instructed as to its' functions. The Webpage you're building is a basic HTML page, and does not use any server-side technology like ASP, or PHP, or CGI/Perl.

It too is well layed-out, and step-by-step. I only wished that a deeper discussion of CSS integration was employed.

So, for the beginner, or for someone who likes to paper & pencil prep, I'd have to say that this is a worthwhile buy.

For the more advanced user, I'd have to say that you may be better off with more of a reference-style tome.

All said, I do not regret the purchase.

This book takes you from web-site zero through building a basic client-side only web site using Dreamweaver 8.

My only critique is that it seemed like we didn't even get to actually using Dreamweaver 8 until about page 100. Before that was an intro to general web-site concepts and HTML.

Anyway, it's an attractive and informative book that is priced lower than most.

If you are looking for website building software, you might want to take a look at Dreamweaver 8: Design and Construction. This book educates the reader on the various aspects of Dreamweaver 8. It also shows the reader, step by step, how to build a website using this software. The author also includes all sort so tips, illustrations of what the reader will see as he or she builds their site, and helpful tech talk boxes that explain some of the more technical issues in an easy to understand way. Everything in this manual is suitable for those with little or no knowledge of website design or website design software.

I believe that the best way to choose website software is to understand what that particular program can do and how this may or may not suit your needs and your abilities. It doesn't help to buy software that can do seemingly magical things if you don't have a clue how to actually make it work. This book helps the reader understand the basics of the Dreamweaver 8 program with a taste of some of the more complex things that can be done.

This book is well written and laid out well (for the most part), but the lack of color really, really hurts this Dreamweaver 8 guide. Perhaps I am being a bit of a stickler, but a book in 2006 not only needs to have good content, but it need to also have a great layout as well. Deciding to go with 5 major colors (white, black, grey, blue, dark blue) not only makes the book seem dull and drab, it detracts from the reader the good content within.

For anyone that uses Dreamweaver 8 on a daily basis this is a great reference guide but the layout editor could have done a much better job. If you care about content more than pizzaz, I think you will be happy with this book

**** RECOMMENDED

Are you new to Dreamweaver 8? If you are, then this book is for you! Author Marc Campbell, has done an outstanding job of writing a book for people who are new to creating their own web sites from the ground up and all that it entails.

Campbell, begins by showing you how to devise your plan. Then, the author shows you how to develop a blueprint for your site. Next, he shows you how to add just about anything to the pages of your site. Finally, the author shows you how to take the working prototype that exists on your computer and publish it to the Web for all of the world to see.

This most excellent book serves an introduction to creating web sites using Macromedia Dreamweaver 8. More importantly, the focus throughout this book is that sound design and usability are inextricably linked.

The entire book is beautiful! The instructions are easy to understand and the blocks come out easily. This quilt can be done in other colors and it also shows how to make smaller quilts. It is truely a great buy.

This is a wonderful book for any quilter that loves applique or would like to learn the art of hand work! The instructions are very easy to follow and the patterns are fantastic! Anyone who purchases this book will find themselves addicted to these little blocks! Don't let the 4" size scare you off.....the blocks can be resized to suit your comfort zone.

I once thought I hated applique - but after trying the newer techniques I love to applique. The designs in this book are a treasure and varied. You can use your favorite colors and easily do it your way. i can see a future of a great number of varied Dutch Treat quilts being made. there is even a Email group of quilters doing these blocks.

This is a great book. I love all the designs. It is a must have for quilters who like recessed (reverse) applique and love to do hand work. I have not done much recessed applique and Judy's instructions are great and easy to follow. Don't let the 4 inch blocks scare you away!

This is definitely a must-have for Appliquéers in the quilting world. Judy has given great instructions for recessed (reverse) appliqué with clear and concise pictures to go by. The little blocks are wonderful. Some of the blocks can be a challenge but oh so rewarding when finished. You won't regret purchasing this book.

This book was helpful in defining all the new technologies and illustrates many challenges businesses face integrating their initiatives online.

There are a lot of facets to running a business that not only must serve an online community but an offline customer base as well. Gutzman does a nice job highlighting the various sectors and the tools businesses must consider to address those needs. She provides examples and case studies. Good book, must read.

In the Preface, Gutzman explains that her book "is designed to tell you what the must-have technologies are for your Web site, with resources listing vendors for each technology. However, new vendors are entering the field daily. For example, for the technology I discuss in the Epiloque, alternative payment systems, I received three press releases in the week before the book went to the printer. In fact, this book has been difficult to write because I have never felt that any chapter was finished." Nor could one be. There are several reasons why I thus begin this brief commentary. First, to indicate that Gutzman focuses on "must-have technologies" rather than on, for example, specific strategies and tactics. Also, to indicate (as does she) how rapidly circumstances in the "digital arena" can change. Finally, to suggest that a Web site is never "finished." Gutzman organizes her material within five Parts: The E-Commerce Climate, Technologies for Driving Traffic, Technologies for Making Buying Easier, Technologies for Customer Service, and finally, Turnkey Growth. Of special interest to me are the various "Case Studies" of exemplar companies and technology applications. Also various "Profiles" such as those of "Net Perceptions", "Soliloquy" and "BroadVision", each of which briefly discusses specific functions, features, and benefits of specific technologies. As a non-technical person, I commend Gutzman on creating access for me to subjects which can sometimes be daunting, if not intimidating.

Gutzman's is a "three-pronged strategy" for meeting your demands: implement essential technologies, maintain a flexible business model, and outsource everything. Think of the material in her book as if it were on display in a store which you enter, tool box in hand. Roam the aisles. Examine various clusters of items. She is your expert advisor as well as the store's proprietress. (I strongly suspect that she had this metaphor in mind when writing the book.) Over time, all of your questions are answered. She helps you to make appropriate selections. In process, she has helped you to understand not only what you need and how to use it but also why you need it. Effective use of the 12 "must have" technologies will drive traffic to the Web site, create and sustain Web site functionality, and facilitate customer service which ensures that the Web site will be ETDBW (Easy to Do Business With). In the Epilogue, Gutzman adds another "must have" technology: alternative payment systems.

For whom will this book be most valuable? First, I highly recommend it to decision-makers in small-to-midsize organizations which already have or are now developing a Web site. The more they know and the more they understand, the better prepared they will be to select and then work with vendors. (NOTE: Reputable vendors will welcome such expertise because it enables them to accomplish more for their client and in less time. The same expertise will enable decision-makers to recognize disreputable vendors, either immediately or soon thereafter. That one benefit all by itself is worth at least ten times the cost of the book and probably a great deal more.) I also strongly recommend this book to decision-makers in larger organizations because, in the "digital arena", they will be expected (if not required) to gain a literacy in the technologies which Gutzman examines. Also, these same decision-makers will become progressively more involved in business initiatives (marketing, client relationships, strategic planning, market research, etc.) which the "must have" technologies support. Congratulations to Gutzman on a brilliant achievement.

Those businesses that make the best use of the best technologies available are the truly innovative and solid e-businesses. The most successful of these companies are the ones that recognize that a retail sale is still a very human activity and requires a mix of technology and personalization. Marketing and promotions are still required; however, the internet requires technology upgrades at a greater rate. There are still three keys of retail, and these objectives must be met properly utilizing the latest technologies in order to be successful:

· Attract customers
· Make shopping simple and easy
· Offer superior customer service

The author of this book lists twelve "must-have" technologies that will help to achieve the three listed objectives. The reader will learn about:

· Place websites high in the search engine
· Partner with aggregators
· Use targeted electronic direct mail
· Connect with customers on the go
· Install search tools to help buyers find what they want
· Make the site personal
· Adapt the site for global customers
· Give customers real-time inventory access
· Keep all information current by using a content management system (CMS)
· Use real-time presales chat and other online customer support
· Integrate on-line and offline customer support
· Realize and use the importance of alternate payment systems

The E-Commerce Arsenal surveys twelve technologies needed to prevail in the digital business world, from submitting a URL and web positioning to using targeted direct email. The case histories from other business experiences are particularly revealing, covering common problems and solutions.

This book gives practical, action oriented information for both developers and merchants, and explains it in an easily comprehendible way. The author does not dwell on theory or basics, but gives concrete insight into what's working and what's not from the first chapter - something I've found very valuable as one who has little time to read a book from cover to cover.

Before reading this book I would have found it difficult to believe that I would be able to use the word hyperbole and the Eames Office in the same sentence. The work of the Eames Office remains beyond reproach and this book does offer some genuine insight into its multifaceted work but tends to avoid difficult questions and for the most part gives simple answers.

The book glosses over the realities and complexities of the Eamesian approach to design and the creative atmosphere of the Office. However, I think the title itself makes the authors intent clear. As a "primer" this book fits the bill in terms of the information included. My main criticism is that the author should have followed through and been more concise and direct. This book is verbose and practically glows with the repetitive and nearly-universal fond memories of the individuals interviewed. Worst of all, the prose has the faint sent of re-contextualization and hero worship (hard to avoid for a grandson).

Secondary to the above but still significant is the books poor quality of design and production. I found the book extremely difficult to read. The font and point size selected, compounded by the overly-wide text line length, made for uncomfortable reading. To top it off the paper selected displayed a surface glare that made reading the book all but impossible except in the best light conditions. The design renders it more a pretty-object rather than a functional book. On the other hand it looks good on the shelf... if you want to impress your friends.

If it weren't for the fact that this book is really about as good as any other design book, it would fair far worse. If you couldn't tell, I would recommend getting the book as there is not much out there on the subject thats any better.

I have had the pleasure of visiting the Eames House and the Eames Family (incldg Eames Demetrios--author and grand-son and Lucia --Charles's only child) on the occasion of the Charles's 100th birthday anniversary. What a delight! Before that wonderful trip, I had the benefit of reading this book which helped me fully understand the history and legacy of this important creative team and the family life that influenced them

It's a must have for any mid century devotee. Get it for your library and be inspired!

This is a great insight into the lives of the Eames'. I think many designers (myself included) think we know something of their lives and importance. This book is a true eye opener into their influence around the world. There is so much to learn not just from their work, but HOW they lived their lives. Very well written. A must read for any designer.

As you might imagine and the title implies this is a wonderful introduction to the work of the Eames' design office. More importantly it is a warm fun filled story of two wonderful and creative human beings who truly sought to make a difference in the world by living with integrity. I feel they succeeded and I think that anyone who reads this little gem will begin to see the connections that weave all life's little mysteries into a comprehensive story .

In 1988, filmmaker Eames Demetrios made the film, 901: After 45 Years of Working, a family record of the closing of the Eames Office shortly after the death of Ray. It was an objective attempt to capture the essence of the studio and design work created by Charles and Ray Eames and their multi-talented staff. Now more than ten years later, Demetrios has again recorded the studio and work in the book, An Eames Primer. The modest title implies an introduction and starting point to all the work of his grandparents but it is much more informative. What makes this book essential reading is the personal nature of the writing, connections, and the concept of "design addressing itself to the need."

Much of this personal nature is expressed in the chapter on the life of Charles Eames and Ray Kaiser before their meeting at Cranbrook, including extensive writing on each family history. This early period of their lives is illustrated by several drawings and paintings by Charles and Ray with each piece exhibiting a pleasing combination of color and form that would later become the hallmark of their work.

Demetrios devotes two pages on the issue of the Eameses signing with either Knoll or Herman Miller for the plywood group. This analysis, which isn't really dealt with in other books, is a rational and logical explanation of Charles and Ray's principles and their main concern about simply marketing a "good chair". For anyone interested in this crucial choice the author has formulated an essential case for the decision to go with Herman Miller.

One of the many highlights of the book is a wonderful collection of color photographs of different objects hanging from the ceiling of the Eames House that is pure aesthetic delight. Also, the bottom right corner of each page serves as a flipbook tour of the expansive 901 Studio.

What must have been an amazing event in film exhibition is Glimpses of the USA at the American Pavilion in Moscow in 1959. The seven-screen presentation of life in the United States shows a cultural identity of amazing diversity and Demetrios explains the process behind the production of this film. In an unbelievable set of circumstances, the American government had given Charles and Ray complete freedom to produce this film at the height of the Cold War with no "final cut" approval from Washington. Several pages also describe the production of the two versions of Powers of Ten. These films required experiments in film technology and camera work and Demetrios fully describes the process. The many contributions of staff members and outside consultants are thoroughly explained.

Throughout the book, many former Eames Office members and consultants describe their experience of working in the studio on the amazing variety of projects. Issues of design attribution are commented upon and examined for several projects.

Two days after finishing the book I retrieved Eames Design and several other excellent books and realized that everything now seemed much clearer after reading Primer. Perhaps Demetrios is correct in giving his work that modest title. The clean and clear connection has been analyzed and described so that it all seems so perfectly obvious. This is an informative educational book written in a casual but serious style and a worthy addition to a personal library.

very useful reference book for inspirational creativity.

There was nothing written on this true master of Art Deco metalware, and this book is as comprehensive as a book can be on an artist. Written with respect, admiration and love for the Art Deco style and the metal craft. Cannot be surpassed. Nothing missing, nothing redundant.

I am a practicing metalsmith of 35 years. This much needed book covers it's subject from every perspective. It will become a valuable asset to historians, collectors and craftsmen. My only critique is that Joan did not include a picture of Brandt's stamp and other ways of varifying his work from fraud.

The author has produced a comprehensive work covering this great Art Deco artist and the exciting era in which he flourished. Joan Kahr's tremendous depth of knowledge and understanding comes through on every page of this beautiful book.

This book is a "must have" for any fan of French art deco/art moderne style. It is beautifully researched and written. The wonderful photography only made me long for more.

Looking for chic rooms that are inspiring? Ms. Russell does it again. Edited from the pages of her magazine,she puts together a great resource book and/or coffee table topper to give you a brousing escape from our own dreary interiors.

I bought this book for a friend who's an interior designer and ended up keeping it myself but of course, ordered another one for her. Why keep it? The book was different to what I expected. This exquisite book covers so many styles, ideas, lifestyles, etc etc it excited me enough to start redecorating my home. I've 'loaned' a couple of ideas from the book, mixed and matched others and am having the best time. 5 stars is well deserved for this absolutely necessary for every home book with it's great ideas. Not forgetting of course the fabulous photography.

This is a truly fantastic book. As a designer, I'm always looking for books that are original, with a sense of elegance as well as a sense of humor, and this book has it all. This is a very well-edited, diverse selection of the best that Elle has to offer.

This wonderful book clearly presents Margaret Russell's point of view. A couple of the featured interiors are "huh?". Being a subscriber to Elle Decor, I have seen many interesting interiors featured over the years and would have liked to have seen how they narrowed the choices down to these. But overall, it's a wonderful book and worth the moolah.
Stylemaven

When I saw the front cover of this book, esp. on Vogue magazine, it was very appealing. They are smart that they picked the best looking interior to feature on their cover. Elle Decor so chic, true, but not for long. You may get a little inspiration and maybe a little wow factor when you first flip through couple of pages, but not for long you will find it that the interiors soon become very similar. It is all the same setup, layout, furniture choices (lots of Chinoiserie and Hollywood Regency), and color schemes. I actually find it much more inspiring to read House and Garden UK version. I've seen too many of these kind of stuff and I am expecting something a little more bold and daring.

This is one of the most beautifully put together books I have ever read on the subject of making birdhouses. They look so complicated, yet she breaks it all down in easy to follow instructions and offers suggestions on making similar houses with different materials. And some of her techniques are so clever. I think it is a must have for any woodworker or crafter who likes to make birdhouses.

I bought this book for my husband and son. My husband is a builder and looked at the practices in the book with horror. He says that the way the author bores out the insides of the log is a good way to lose a few fingers. I am currently looking for a naturally hollow log so I can make one myself but we won't have our son attempt making any with the methods described. There is one house that is made with pipe and pebbles with no cutting that is charming and we may attempt that. Truly a beautiful book with darling little bird homes resulting -just watch out for your hands!

My husband saw this book at the library and he had to have it. The projects are photographed beautifully and you can see every detail. We can't wait to make our own versions of the projects. The techniques are very clever. This book has very well laid out step by step instructions with lots of pictures. Anyone into nature will love this book.

If you enjoy nature walks and love the idea of using found materials, this book is too much fun! I found the projects fascinating and yet I came away thinking "I can do this." I also appreciated the way she used some store bought materials so you don't have to live in the country to try creating some of these charming cottages. And the lovely little illustrations throughout make it a pleasure to look through even if your aren't inclined to actually make any of them.

Author Lucinda Macy's "Enchanting Woodland Birdhouses" is one of the finest step by step, do it yourself craft books that i've had the opportunity to use. Her excellent descriptions and pictorials make any of the projects inside a straightforward task to build on your own. Ranging from the simplest of designs, to those that will challenge even a skilled craftsman, there is something to be had for everyone. Furthermore, all birdhouses are designed to National Audobon Society specifications for their intended feathered inhabitants, making them not only beautiful, but very functional as well. Nature enthusiasts and hobbyists of all ages won't want to miss out on this treasure of a book, a great addition to any great library.

A beautiful bible. The text is a reasonable size making it easy and enjoyable to read. I have received many favourable comments from friends eager to know where I bought it. The content of the book, of course, is what is really most important. A truly Spirit inspired and life changing book.

This fits in my purse and my husband always has his in his back pocket.

It has a soft dark blue cover with the Celtic cross and other designs "embossed" on the front. The spine has the same embossed look but with the "Holy Bible", the ESV Seal, "English Standard Version", and "Crossway" on it. The back is plain with only "True Tone Series" and the ISBN number on the lower right hand corner in very small letters. The cover is a soft leather and will gather small scratches dull out a bit when used. It does not take away from the beauty of it though but gives it a nice "worn in" look.

The words are in a very small font with the words of Christ in red. So if you don't mind the small font, it could work for you. This bible contains footnotes, a "Weights & Measures" page and a condensed Concordance. The outside pages are silver in color which fades after much use. (But don't they all?) Pages are good enough to hightlight passages and it won't seriously bleed through.

About the ESV:
This version is wonderful. I really liked the NASB but this ESV "version" is the closest to it. (Being that the NASB is the closest to the original Hebrew & Greek, ESV is the closest to the NASB but in a more "flowy" manner that doesn't "water" the Word down like the NIV does. Some of my friends and I like to joke that the NASB is the "Yoda" version. The sentences are not as nicely structured because of the almost "literal" translation of it. The ESV fixes that.) Plus the ESV version is endorsed by J.I. Packard, R.C. Sproul, A. Mohler, W. Grudem, etc.

My church has switched to the ESV and this bible is perfect because I can easily carry it with me. Not to thick, not too long, and not too big, but it isn't too small either. The look of it is nice as a gift, which is how I got mine. At some bible stores, they will have them emboss your name on it if you wish.

I was very pleased with the design and quality of this product. The cover is soft and durable. The binding top-notch. I highly recommend this product.

I love the size and the color. Of course, God's Word is life-changing and that alone is worth more than can be explained. I like the version and how it stays true to the original meaning.

I ordered this Bible for my sister's birthday. She loves it! We just started using the ESV Bible at our church for services. It is a great translation! One thing both my sister & I noticed right away about this Bible is that even though it is smaller than a standard large size Bible, the font used in the text makes it VERY easy to read. The cover is also very nicely made.

This book has some great designs, but they are not for the beginner. The authors show you, step-by-step, how to carve two of the 20 patterns. One design is done in 86 steps using simple tools (pocket knife, finish nail, toothbrush, etc.) The other design is done in 39 steps using carving gouges. You will need thick-skinned pumpkins. Great book if you want to take your pumpkin carving to the next level.

We do an annual adult Pumpkin carving night and now with this book we will make them even more amazing!

This book is a great tutorial for carving a masterpiece. The pictures are very professional and every step of the process is documented. Only two carvings are shown in complete detail, but you won't be disappointed. The technique is defined in such a way that you should be able to take this idea and run with it using your own ideas. Lots of other pictures and ideas are given, just not in the detailed description as the first two. I'm very impressed.

Was easy to follow the instructions, could be used for other media other than pumpkins. Pictures were great to see visual aid. Highly recommend for a carver.

I got this book for halloween this year. Read through it in a short sitting, and had a clear view of how to create releaf style pumpkin sculptures in no time.

I had some background many years ago in highschool pottery classes doing sculture, and the techniques detailed in this book easily recapped each of the basics and then advanced into the more skilled techniques.

I highly recommend this for anyone with little to no sculpture background.

The draw backs I found with this book are that they focus heavily on how to accomplish the effects with typical knife. Then they transition in to using more specific tools. The issue being that they spend far less time detailing the technique with the specific/advanced tools, it would have been better if they keep the same level of tenique details for the advanced tools. Also on the subject of advanced tools, the author provide teh list of tools he uses(which have been built over many years specializing in the spaced). There is very little time spent on talking about what tools are used or suggestions of locations to get ahold of them. I have found that getting ahold of tools that fit the task have been hard to find and better descriptions or sources would be extremely helpful.

This book is written with a sense of humor. It has lots of ideas, tips, recipes, and facts; it even has poetry. There are no patterns but plenty of ideas and pictures (to copy). This book is a delight!

I love this book! Not only are the pumpkin carving ideas amazing, but the guy has great suggestions with a good sense of humor. My only regret was that I ordered it late in October and I didn't get the book in time to pursue some of the projects for Halloween night. But it sure made for a great table book and conversation piece at my little Halloween get together. Next year we'll be ready to take some of these on! The photos are wonderful and we all cracked up, deciding which pumkin extravaganza was our favorite. So if you're seriously into having some Halloween creativity and fun, get this little book.
FUNNY!

This book is entertaining, hilarious, and is guaranteed to equally disturb your neighbors and make you a legend among the neighborhood kids come Halloween. Easy instructions to make one of the many bizzare pumpkins illustrated or to "take creative wing" and scare the bejeebers out of the neighbors! Put the fun back into Halloween-this book will show you how!!!

I love this guy,I've been watching his website for years. Search under
Extreme Pumpkins.Not for the mainsteam friendly smiling pumpkin carver.
The book has great pictures and instructions. You get to use POWER TOOLS!
I recommend it as a great book for yourself and to give to any friends you have with a strange sense of humor! Warning your neighbors may think you've gotten a little too far out there!!!

Fantastic book! Provides wonderful ideas for creating very funny, creative pumpkins that are sure to impress teenage boys and horrify the neighborhood association.