Arts and Crafts Books

Useful for the more experienced needleworker, but also for anyone with a general interest, Techniques of Indian Embroidery offers an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in drawing on the wealth of Indian embroidery techniques, and illustrates clearly how to achieve many beautiful stitches and techniques.

For centuries, India has been renowned for the richness and diversity of its embroidered textiles. Embroidery is part of the Indian way of life, and is in evidence everywhere: on clothes, adorning animals, in temples, homes and other buildings. In this book, Professor Anne Morrell explores the many traditions of Indian embroidery and its many techniques. She builds up a fascinating picture of the evolution in India, exploring the local traditions that make the work of each area unique, and looking at the way in which innovative stitches and designs have been added to those traditionally used to create new techniques and creative possibilities. She discusses the many different stitches and techniques in detail, including quilting, pattern-darning, counted-thread work, whitework, the enrichment of embroidery with mirrors, gold, silver and other metals, and applique and patchwork. many of the historical and contemporary embroideries illustrated are accompanied by clear worked samples showing exactly how the different stitches can be achieved and then used to create exciting effects. A final section includes twenty individual stitches and the method of working them, so that the techniques explored throughout the book can be put into practice. This is an invaluable working guide for anyone interested in drawing on the wealth of Indian embroidery techniques for use in their own embroideries or in the study of ethnic textiles. Anne Morrell was born in Madras and has long been interested in the embroidered textiles of India. She was a lecturer at Goldsmiths' College in London before moving to the Manchester Metropolitan University, where she became a Principal Lecturer in the Department of Textiles and Fashion. In 1992 she was appointed Professor. She is the author of a number of books and articles on embroidery under the names Anne Butler or Anne Morrell. She has held exhibitions of her work in many different countries.

This marvellous book includes the influences of local and regional traditions, exploring individual techniques such as quilting, counted-thread work, shisha (mirror) work, metal work, beading, applique and patchwork. A brilliantly written book, that I highly recommend.

Professor Anne Morrell, formerly Anne Butler, has chosen twenty of the most popular embroidery stitches, and her aim is to show not only how to work them, but also how to USE them effectively in finished pieces of embroidery, either on their own or in combination with other stitches. Each stitch there is a working diagram, an explanatory text and a photograph of the stitch in progress. This introductory page is followed by a series of photographs showing examples of the stitch in use, some historical, others from the work of contemporary embroiderers; all serve to illustrate the rich variety of effects which can be obtained with one stitch. The basic techniques and materials necessary for embroidery are explained in an introduction, together with some hints for the student on how to work with a wide range of stitches.

Many people think of Indian embroidery as shisha (glass) work, which incorporates tiny mirrors into rich, colourful embroidered patterns. Particular to India, this embroidery technique is thought to have been developed by the wife of Shah Jahan; he built the Taj Mahal at Agra in her honour. Shisha is covered in this book, together with many other techniques, all illustrated with splendid examples. Sections cover embroidery stitches; quilting, darning and pattern-darning; counted-thread work; whitework; metal work; embroidery with a hook; and applique and patchwork. A section at the back gives diagrams of the stitches used, but the main use of this book is as a splendid record and inspiration, tracing the origins and techniques used for centuries in India to adorn clothes, homes, temples and animals. But this is no dry history book; it is written in a very practical, interesting way.

I renewed the library's copy of 500 Beaded Objects so often that my library card was getting friction burns. I'm very fussy about what I add to my collection of beading reference but this was an absolute "must." We all hit times when the Muse doesn't talk to us and that's just when you should pull this book out. No matter what your skill level is, the fabulous and varied work in this book will inspire you to try different techniques, push yourself, and think outside the box. It's an absolute jewel of a book and I couldn't be without it.
If you need help with technique, this is not the item - but there are many other fine books to assist you there. This is the book that will uplift you when the thread tangles, the beads scatter on the floor and your shoulders have gone into permanent hunch mode from beading for too many hours.

This is the most amazing book for anyone who is fascinated with beads, whether you actually work with them or not! I actually spent 2 1/2 days studying every entry --- my husband thought I was nuts, until I reminded him of the amount of time he spends with new Jeep magazines each month! Anyway, this book is worth any amount of money and is the only bead book of all that I have that sits on my coffee table.

Wonderfully done, clear beautiful photos on every page of all kinds of beadart, arranged in a flowing manner, like items together moving fluidly through all genres of current bead art. SO inspiring!

A delightful book showing the range of these remarkable artists from whimsical figures to gorgeous necklaces to abstracted portraits ala Chuck Close. The pieces are time intensive, some took three years to make. These are artists of remarkable invention and sublime taste. More than worth your time.

This is truly a beautiful collection of "beadwork". Not only is it wonderfully diverse in the inspiration department, but the photographs are stellar, too. I got this book for my daughter who works with beads on the same artistic level, but having sent it to her I knew that I needed to have these wonderful images for myself, too. So I have bought two copies so far and will probably by more as gifts for my other art-minded friends. A treasure trove of imaginative art. I highly recommend this book .

This lady has spent years researching ancient techniques and it is to her credit that granulation and woven chain has finally come to America.

These chains are not soldered; they are fused and woven. I recommend you have at least a semester of college level jewelry or several years of soldering under your belt before jumping in with this one. But it worthwhile if you want to make chains that are worthy of royalty, or have a chain for a piece of art jewelry that will do it justice.

This is a workbook, progressing from the simplest and easiest to progressively more complex chains. After the first couple hundred fused links you become pretty adept. After fusing the links, you will learn to weave links into patterns. These are not your ordinary chains. They are strong, beautiful and flexible.

Jean is obsessively precise in her work, so this book is very precise. She goes over what gauges work for which patterns, as well as all the little tips that make a chain look superb. It's a lovely book, very well-written and one to be included in a goldsmith's library.

To get a better idea of the creativity and precision of this lady's work, go to Randy Smith's website: http://www.rocksmyth.com/ and look for Jean Stark's work. Prepare to be amazed at all the lovelies and realize that pictures do not do her work justice, as good as the pictures are. Many of the chains are made with 30 ga. wire, which is not much thicker than sewing thread. Her chains feel like silk.

If you're serious about making fine quality chains, then you need this book. Jean Stark is the guru.

This was just what I was looking for. Clear instructions with photos. A great find!

This is great information with very east to read instructions. Not for the lazy or faint of heart.Great ancient traditions brought back to life.

Classical Loop-in-Loop Chains & Their Derivatives is the full title which I find still does not adequately describe the book.

This book is an instruction manual rather than a reference source. The instructions presented have been tried and tested on a number of students, and incorporates feedback from the students. The black and white photographs shown are of the chain work produced by the students as well as the author.

Loop-in-loop is the description of how chains are constructed with each chain link looping within each other to form a chain. Examples of this type of chain are on the front cover of the book.

The classical chains covered in this book are described as single loop-in-loop, side-weave single, single though-bead, basic pinched loop, roman pinched loop, pinched loop with wrapped beads, pinched loop through-beads, basic double loop-in-loop, double with wrapped beads, weave-off double, two-way double loop-in-loop, three-way double loop-in-loop, four-way double loop-in-loop, multiple soldered single, multiple soldered pinched loop, pinched loop with spacers, multiple woven single mesh, multiple woven double. In all 34 chains are described, 16 derivatives of the 18 definitely attributed ancient style of chains.

The main emphasis of this instruction work is on using fine silver and fusing to form whole links incorporating annealing, and then shaping into the links, and then forming the chain. Detailed step-by-step instructions are given on forming links up front, and then each chain has instructions on how to shape the required link, and then form into the chain. This book clearly explains and demonstrates these techniques and processes.

Each chain has a list of the materials needed (in inches and gauges (thickness) - appendices contain conversions) to make it at a given length. These can be used as references for links/inch or used to adjust as necessary to form a necklace or bracelet of given length. An appendix is supplied which gives recommended dowel diameters for the wire gauges for making variations to basic chains. The authors viewpoint is that making chains is an art form, and this book is to develop the students abilities and to encourage their own subsequent development and personal refinement of explained techniques.

Although primarily based on fine silver work (sterling is unsuitable for these techniques - if you solder links that is a different technique), the book does cover how to produce fused chains in 22K gold (including 22k gold metal alloy composition that was used in antiquity and for which these techniques work best).

There is a 25 page chapter on clasps and terminations, cross referenced with what chains they are suitable for, and the chains are cross referenced with what clasps and terminations are suitable.

This book does not have colour photographs. It has diagrams (at enlarged sizes for easier viewing) showing how to form the chain links and join with the next link and or terminate. Black and white photographs show finished chains and/or portions of finished chains. There are no photographs of ancient chains, and very little information on any apart from the detailed instructions on how to make them. Occasionally there are snippets about the existence of such an ancient chain, and even where it is located.

If you do not currently possess silverworking/chainworking tools you will need to purchase them to make the chains in this book, as well as needing work bench space. There are details in the book about what tools you will need, and for the USA where to obtain them. This book does not go over any of the safety aspects of using blowtorches or kilns. Please make sure you have on instruction on these before proceeding.

With the price of silver (and gold) the making of the chains will not be inexpensive, but if you wish to learn how to make a number of chains, this book will explain how.

This is a well organised, well presented instructional book. I would suggest to re-read the two pages covering "Weaving" and "Achieving best results" with "common problems and how to avoid them" before commencing each chain.

i find this book to be a great help when i am desiging necklaces, bracelets and even drop earrings. this is something every jeweler needs in their library.

I just cannot wait to get a bit of time to be able to really sink my teeth into a project using the lessons in this really good book. Well written with plenty of illustrations and easy to follow instructions.

I love Maureen as an artist and my rating has nothing to do with her or her book in general. The detail in her artistry is fantastic and her instructions are easy to follow.

I was dissapointed in the condition of this book though from the seller. It was used, but I was surprised at how bad the condition of it really would be. Out of all the used books I've purchased through Amazon, this was the worst...... Again, this has NOTHING to do with the author or her book in general. It is still worth your purchase.

this is a fun project one both young and young at heart will enjoy. Mom if you want a project you and your childern can do together, this is it. What a great feeling when you see the finished friend your child created. They will want to do more and more. It is very additive.

Polymer clay figures are difficult to make at first, but the book is easy to understand and entertaining to read.The author discusses topics from choosing clays and tools to learning to see the different shapes of faces and body proportions. She includes a variety of facial shapes to practice, with step by step guidance. There is no confusion and loads of clever ideas for caricatures. There is also a chapter on problems and solutions. I am working on caricatures of my family right now, and I don't know of another book that could be as helpful as this one. I am very pleased with it. I have a few others, but this is the one that I recommend to friends, and basically the only one I need.

Whether you are a beginning sculptor, or an experienced doll maker, this book is a good one to have on your reference shelf.

The artist has a playful way of explaining/showing you how to do things, and the step-by-step color photographs are really helpful. She even shows you how to make tools from common everyday things you'll find around the house.

I was impressed by her ability to sculpt perfect caracatures of her friends and family. There was no mistaking who it was when you saw the finished sculpt along side the photo of her person.

Enjoyable book.

Recently I purchased this book for myself and read it cover to cover! Some really great inspiration here! Information you can really use. I love Ali's style and how she see's things!

Ali's books are full of great ideas. I love this book and refer to it often.

I love her book. She gives you so many ideas to try and to start your own challenges. She encourages you to to it the way you want to. Great book!!!

I love Ali Edwards ideas and she inspires me in so many ways. This book is no exception!

Even if you read the whole book and don't get a single idea for your own scrapbooking, it's OK. And that's one of the first lessons in a book about cultivating an attitude which will free the life artist within you to create pages and albums and other projects which reflect your personality and vision. It's OK.

Although Life Artist is divided into chapters with themes, the book is essentially a series of two-page spreads with reflections about the themes the author, Ali Edwards, feels are an important part of creating work that is unique and personal. Although it can be a fast read, it's worthy of a more reflective approach.

This is one of my favorite quilting books ( as a quilter, I have a few). It is a colorful inspiring book with clear directions on creating quilted postcards. Often the cover of a book will picture the only good samples in the book. Positively Postcards has tons of beautiful postcards pictured that you can give you ideas.

A couple of weeks ago, I was looking for a new creative outlet when I came across this book in a local bookstore. I was immediately taken with the thorough instructions and beautiful full large sized pictures. I have read it cover-to-cover several times to digest all the details and I have already begun to make my own postcards.
I haven't been disappointed in my own creations because the author has really inspired me to be creative on my own and not just copy everything in the book. I have begun to see artistic possibilities everywhere and I am thinking of forming my own group of postcard quilters by showing others this creative and quick method of quilting.
I highly recommend this to anyone that needs complete step-by-step instructions but also ideas and inspiration.

I've bought several post card books before and I find that this is my favorite one of all. She also has kits you can purchase and they are very easy to make. Just a lovely book.

As soon as the book arrived I thumbed thru just to get a feel of the book and was delighted to see so many pictures! I just love to see all the wonderful works of art that have been done.

I was immediately inspired and started reading the book from cover to cover and making lists of ideas and supplies that I would need! I have a class with Bonnie coming up in a few weeks and I'm so looking forward to creating some of my own original designs. I just may have to get started early.

I am truly impressed with the book, it inspires rather than dictate steps. I can't wait to start my first quilted postcard!

A great book for the beginner wanting to learn how to make postcards. Every step is well photographed and explained so there are no surprises. A great and relatively simple way to make some terrific postcards.

Truly an excellent guide to the romantic comedy genre and how to write within it. Perfect for an intermediate writer who wants to branch out into this kind of screenwriting; could even be useful for short stories and novels, because the ideas translate well. Very well written, entertaining, never boring, and always enlightening. Loved it and consider it a must-have in my screenwriting/writing library.

I recommend this book for all writers - not just screenwriters. He has a way of making it so clear all the clever ways not to fall into the usual traps of a typical scene.

Whether you are writing a book or a movie the information he presents how to establish relationships between characters is tremendous. It's also a fun read.

I refer to it often when building characters, relationships, and their world.

This IS the book for anyone interested in writing a romantic comedy. Simple and easy to follow with great examples from films we love. It's all about the chemistry. If you want to write an emotional picture...this is the book for you. Writing the Romantic Comedy is your ticket to writing a romcom that sells!

I've been working on my text for a while and struggling with
it. Once I start reading the book I knew I was in right hands because page after page I immediately start finding out answers for my questions. I gained time and saved much of my energy for writing the better. Definitely value of my money.
ILKSEN BAS f/36

As a writer, this book woke up my muse and honed my funnybone. A completely easy-to-read how-to-write book ... what a bonus! The book is perfect for writers in other genres and anyone looking to write humour and comedy.

This book is the best I have seen on enameling. Very informative on anything you need to know on the subject !! Cannot wait to purchase my suppies and get started !!!!

I've started enameling my Art Clay Silver pieces and needed an easy to follow guide, since my one enameling class gave me the basics but not enough to comfortably work on things in my studio without having a good reference book. "The Art of Enameling" has been great. It has sections on working with fine silver, which is a big help. The author writes well and the accompanying photos and tips are great. After reading through it, I feel a lot more comfortable and ready to tackle some projects.

This book is a comprehensive overview of most enameling techniques. It includes several projects with step-by-step instructions. This is a good resource book for beginning and intermediate enamelists.

I purchased this book for my daughter. She is an advanced metals major in college and was absolutely thrilled with this book. She was familiar with the work of the author and was very pleased to have detailed instruction as well as wonderful photographic examples of her work. If you are looking for great gift for an art major, you can't go wrong with this book.

I've owned this book since it was first published and learned much about the art from its pages. Last week I had the good fortune to take a week-long workshop with the author at the Revere Academy in San Francisco. We used the book as text and reference throughout a fantastic week of exploration. In person, Linda is every bit as informative and enthusiastic as her fine book would lead one to expect. For anyone who can't share the luck of those who have studied with her directly, this book is by far the most thorough, clearly written, beautifully illustrated enameling manual currently in print. If you want to learn The Art of Enameling, buy this book before any other!

This is a great reference book. I wish my university would use it for their textile 101 class.

This contains everything you would ever want to find out before purchasing fabric. It tells you what the fabric should be used for, if it should be washed and how before sewing, the thread, needle and stitch size that would work best. It will save you both time and money in the end.

I really like this book. It covers many fabrics, including many I've been hesitant to use or nervous about when I did. I recently bought a new electronic sewing machine and this has been a real help. The recommendations about the right foot to use and when were a boon in selecting which accessories to buy. I also really like the sections in the back. There are illustrations on different seams, closures, and hems, plus information on stain removal, linings, and sources. Great!

I received this book quicker than I expected and was extremely happy with the condition of this used book. It was almost like new. The seller certainly ensured that I received exactly what I wanted as quickly as possible. Just excellent customer service to this international buyer.
I will keep on trying to source those difficult to find books from this seller.
With grateful thanks

More Fabric Savvy: A Quick Resource Guide to Selecting and Sewing Fabric Completely Revised and Updated

This is a must have book for anyone who sews. If you are starting out, it will save you a lot of frustration, money and fabric/supplies. If you are more advanced or a serious seamstress, it will help you to know the answers to all the questions that come up when handling multiple types of textiles. Each page on a fabric gives you all the information you need to know about that fabric, including what needle to use, what pressure foot to sew with, whether to wash or dryclean, line, how to hem, etc.

If I had this book when I was starting out over 30 years ago, I could have saved a lot of money. This is a great gift for someone who loves to sew.

This book is excellent for someone starting in the art of pyrography. It covers all you need to know about techniques and the art and gives great examples of each . Deloy Robert Moore Artist

Great book for beginners and experts with many ideas and tips Highly recommend it to others

I only did some pyrography when I was very young, and the patterns were already on the boards.

I found the beginner patterns to be more advanced, in my opinion. (However, I haven't burned the copied one on my board, as yet. If I find time, it's ready to go!)

I think I need something even more beginner oriented, as far as patterns go.

Overall, there is a LOT of GREAT information in this book that's helped me decide on a burner, wood types to use, etc.

I'm happy with the book.

A wonderful book that teaches a beginner so many things! I cannot wait to start working with it!!!

A complete and detailed book, with a lot of necessary technical info and tutoring for beginners and advanced. Nice touch are the beautifull step by step examples you can make at the end of the book. If you plan to buy only one book on pyrography, this is it!