1 comments about Handmade Baskets.

1. Vaughan's book emphasizes collecting natural materials for basketry, with neat color pictures of appropriate vegetation. The last part of the book explains simple basket-making. Great enthusiasm builder and very useful guide for collecting. If you want more on weaving patterns as well as materials, look at Jensen's book "Baskets from Nature's Bounty."

No comments about Fast, Fun and Easy Fabric Boxes: Eight Great Designs -- Unlimited Possibilities.

5 comments about Pine Needle Basketry: From Forest Floor to Finished Project.

1. I love this book! I made pine needle baskets years (20) ago and just started back with this hobby again. I just wish Judy Mallow would write another book with more of her basket inspirations in it. It is the best book on the subject! Thanks to you Judy!!



2. The instructions in this book are well written and clear, but what makes "Pine Needle Basketry" worth owning are the beautiful color photographs that are liberally sprinkled throughout the book. The book starts with a discussion of the required tools and materials and pretty quickly jumps into directions on how to make a simple pine needle basket. From there the author describes additional techniques such as: the different stitches used to bind the coils, adding beads and shells for embellishment, and using a gourd for the base of a basket. Next comes the "Projects" section where you are shown a photograph of a finished basket. Beneath each photo is a list of the techniques used and the pages where the technique descriptions can be found. The projects range from the first simple and functional basket to purely decorative pieces. Next comes the truly inspiring "Gallery" section. This is pure "eye candy". There is example after example of how other artists have transformed this simple craft into an art form. If you love baskets, then this is a great book to put on your shelf.



3. I purchased this book for my daughter's home school science project. She was learning about different types of trees. She brought back home a whole bunch of pine needles to use. She loves to weave, so we decided to make a pine basket with them.
   
   First, I went on the internet and found one instruction to make a pine needle basket. It was OK, but not clear enough for a beginner like me. The site linked me to this book. I am so glad that I found this book! The instruction is very concise and easy to follow with well illustrated diagrams. Also, it has many beautiful pictures of gorgeous works by the author for your inspiration.
   I definitely recommend this book to someone who wants to start a pine basket weaving. Also, for teachers, it is the MUST to have book in the classroom.



4. This is an exquisite book worth the price. The details are very easy to follow. I highly recommend this book for the beginner and advanced.



5. This is an excellent book. It gives detailed instructions for beginners and lists all the supplies needed. Then it also has instructions for more intermediate and unusually designed baskets.

5 comments about The Ultimate Basket Book: A Cornucopia of Popular Designs to Make (Diy Network).

1. I was disappointed in the book not because it didn't have good information but because there doesn't seem to be anything really new from her. I've seen most of these patterns in her other books. I guess I thought there would be more new patterns in this one.



2. I read the previous review and decidid to buy the book anyway. The previous reviewer was absolutely correct -- nothing new here. I believe readers would be better served with Lyn Siler's two previous books.



3. This book came highly recommended by my basket instructor. The directions are clear and accurate, the baskets vary from easy to advanced, and the techniques are illustrated with clear and accurate photos and drawings. This is the basket book to have!



4. I was a bit disappointed with this book. I was excited to see a new book by this author and hoped to see new patterns, but most of these are in her previous books. However, in this book she includes skill levels which are helpful.



5. Being a gift basket expert and recommender of finished baskets, I decided to explore the basket making side of the industry.
   
   For me, the book provided good understanding of completed basket styles to treasure or give as presents, whether empty or filled with a collection of gifts.
   
   It's always helpful when a book starts by introducing you to the tools and supplies required to create these wonderful vessels, which is what you'll find at the beginning.
   
   The photographs encourage you to try each technique. Some baskets are made in one color while others are crafted in a variety of hues.
   
   I was drawn to the Traditional Egg Basket with its tight, center weave that creates an elevated midsection and the Market Basket in multiple colors, topped with a short handle.
   
   I'm glad to learn through other reviews that previous books by this author are worth a look. Meanwhile, I'll continue to be inspired by the 43 projects in this book.
   
   Shirley Frazier
   The Gift Basket Design Book, 2nd: Everything You Need to Know to Create Beautiful, Professional-Looking Gift Baskets for All Occasions

5 comments about Bountiful Baskets: Creating Perfect Gifts for Any Occasion.

1. If you are interested in constructing beautiful gift baskets with attention to both form and function, then clearly, this book is a must have. The author's approach to gift selection is both practical and savvy. She encourages the reader to personalize every basket by keeping in mind the recipients likes, dislikes and lifestyle. Her baskets are classy, unique and smart.
   If you're interested in the business end of the gift basket industry (and who wouldn't be after viewing her storefront - at the back of the book), she offers great tips and advice on getting started. More importantly, she offers a short quiz for readers who might be "on the fence" about self-employment" and she candidly explains that it is not a choice for everyone.
   All in all, I would have to rate this, by far, my favorite book in this genre. I own 7 books related to gift baksets. This is the one that had me drooling from the first flip of the pages. I'm not sure the author ever sleeps (read her bio). Her style is impeccable, right down to her tags and letterhead.



2. The author, Sara Toliver, is a Genius!
   This book is so beautiful that it is a gift itself. Beautiful color photos show how to make wonderful gift baskets using everyday items from baskets to tool boxes. It teaches how to create gifts with a personal touch. It's changed the way I give gifts.
   
   Bountiful Baskets is a gift that keeps giving & giving.



3. This is a great book of ideas! The pictures are great and really helped me think of ways to do my own baskets. There is a wonderful section about starting your own business that I found helpful as well. The pictures were great and very creative and professional looking. This book was just what I needed!



4. Excellent book, well worth the money spent. The photos of the finished baskets are lovely and directions clear.



5. Lots of really great ideas, wish it was a thicker book, but it gets the creative juices flowing.

5 comments about 500 Baskets: A Celebration of the Basketmaker's Art (500 Series).

1. The pictorial array from traditional to scultural baskets was the best way to present these baskets. For those in the art field to a novice interested in the making of baskets, this book showcased the creativity of a beautiful artform that is often overlooked. In my opinion, Lark books did a good job with just enough text about the basket and the name of the artists to let the baskets shine.



2. I bought this book for my mother, who is an avid basket maker. She loves it!



3. I think the title says it all -- "A Celebration of the Basketmaker's Art." This beautiful assemblage of color photographs are pure "eye candy" for other basketmakers and to people that appreciate basket weaving. Whether you are a basket artist already, aspire to be one in the future, or are a collector of contemporary art, you'll find page after page of inspiring and captivating basketry photos in this book. There are no instructions, patterns or actual techniques featured in this book, only exquisite examples of the completed artwork. Each subject is based on the foundation of traditional basketweaving techniques, but has stretched the limit and broken free of the constraints of the traditional and time-honored look, to emerge as something vibrant and thoroughly modern. Lark Books and all these wonderful 500 basketweavers have produced a book that will live on for years, and since it's only "eye" candy, we won't get fat from eating it all up, page after every wonderful page!



4. If you love baskets - you shall love this book. 500 items yes - but it feels like they shall never ever stop! They are so different - and many not really baskets at all. Different materials, differents forms, the only thing you want more - is to hold them in your hand. What does they feel like!
   Many countries is represented, but a great lot of the baskets is from the US, but hallo! three from Denmark, and that is why I discovered the book. Those basket makers had the book with them on their stand at an exhibition with new and old baskets here ind Denmark. [...]



5. Any basket maker or basket lover will enjoy looking at this book.
   The pictures are wonderful.

5 comments about A Basketmaker's Odyssey: Over, Under, Around & Through: 24 Great Basket Patterns from Easy Beginner to More Challenging Advanced.

1. Another inspiring collection from Lyn Siler...great patterns, great instructions and a great photo gallery of some of her basket collection. Easy for beginners, appreciated by more advanced weavers.



2. I read the reviews of this book before purchasing it, which were, on the whole, less than impressive. Lyn Syler has written many books on basketmaking, but this is the only one I know of with directions for making a basket designed by Patti Quinn Hill. Ms. Hill makes baskets that are astoundingly beautiful, and I was so excited to be able to follow in her footsteps. I doubt I will use the rest of this book, but this one project made it worth the purchase price.Paper in Three Dimensions: Origami, Pop-ups, Sculpture, Baskets, Boxes, and More



3. I loved the book with its many new patterns and techniques. Readers should be aware that there are some errors which were corrected by an insert in my book or you can go to the author's website.



4. A Basketmaker's Odyssey: Over, Under, Around & Through: 24 Great Basket Patterns from Easy Beginner to More Challenging Advanced



5. Nice projects for every skill level. Best feature: the wirebound book lies FLAT while you work.

3 comments about The Gift Basket Design Book, 2nd: Everything You Need to Know to Create Beautiful, Professional-Looking Gift Baskets for All Occasions (Gift Basket Design Book: Everything You Need to Know to Create).

1. After reading the book I have learn how to present a better finished product. I can stop reading it,this is one of my gift basket reference book now. It goes everytwhere I go.



2. I have read many how-to books especially business-related ones; however, seldom have I found a more clearly written book than "The Gift Basket Design Book". Ms. Shirley George Frazier's instructions are thorough, easy to understand and follow. Her explanations don't leave you guessing as to why she chose one method over another which will help one avoid costly mistakes. Her "tips" are an added feature that distinguishes her book from so many others. Finally, Ms. Frazier's resource lists and recommendations are on target for getting good prices for supplies, tools and basket ingredients. This book makes me believe that Ms. Frazier wants me to succeed in my new gift basket business and shared all her secrets to ensure I do so.
   
   That said, I do have a criticism. While Ms. Frazier's instructions for arranging baskets are superb, I find that several of her finished products look a bit unprofessional. I believe the problem is two-fold. First, in some cases she has not selected ingredients with packaging that compliment each other, color-wise. Therefore, certain arrangements look bland versus cheerful. Second, in general, the pick embellishments (and some ribbons) do not look to be of good quality; do not share a common bond with each other or the gifts; and/or are skimpily placed. Usually, less is more but I believe the interior of her baskets would look more professional with an abundance of metallic shred, curled ribbon, ting ting and/or star sprays.
   
   These comments are not intended to minimize the benefits of this book. The step-by-step photographed instructions are worth its price, alone. And if you have an eye for color and balance you can overcome the ingredient and embellishment issues. Plus, generously she has provided photos of baskets prepared by others that when studied will give insight into how to better embellish your baskets.



3. This is a great book. It gives lots of ideas and great visual. A must read for anyone who wants to start a business or just be creative.

5 comments about How to Start a Home-Based Gift Basket Business, 4th (Home-Based Business Series).

1. I am in the process of starting my own gift basket business and this book was a logical choice. It has answered the majority of my questions and even addressed a few things that I hadn't thought of. It's organized well and has a checklist at the end of every chapter as a summary of things to accomplish that are relevant to that chapter. I would recommend this book to anyone wishing to learn the ins and outs of the gift basket business.



2. If you are a current or aspiring home based business owner then you need to get acquainted with this author. Shirley Frazier Jones is one of the top 10%, one of the elite that can make it happen. With home based business on the rise, many entrepreneurs do not know where to start. If you want to learn about the gift basket business then read this book. I've had the pleasure of meeting Shirley and can tell you that she is both passionate and knowledgeable. Shirley knows what it takes. Read this book, follow the authors advice and you'll be well on your way.



3. This book is very helpful for those thinking about starting a home-based gift basket business. It includes information about every aspect of running your own business. It also contains many useful forms and checklists to make sure you don't leave anything out. Shirley is encouraging and makes it exciting to think about starting your own business. I would highly recommend this book to anyone thinking about starting a gift basket business or other similar businesses.



4. This is the second book I've read written by Shirley George Frazier. I've wasted a lot of money and time on information and research. If I would have bought this book 4 months ago, I would have spent far less money. This book is information packed. She has done everything for you. This book has everything from start-up to marketing and promotion. The only thing you have to do is implement what's there. I've said it, and I'll say it again, this lady is brilliant. This book should be apart of every home-based gift basket business. If you haven't read it, you are doing yourself and your business an injustice.



5. This book is a great start in setting up a Gift Basket business for those thinking about or those who want to start a gift basket business. The information given can also be transcended into starting other businesses.

No comments about Coiled Designs for Gourd Art.