5 comments about Complete Origami: An A-Z facts and folds, with step-by-step instructions for over 100 projects.

1. If you're looking for nice models to fold, this is not the book you'll want. Instead, if you have some experience with folding and would like to understand the more advanced books and articles you may find on the Internet, you will appreciate the information provided by Complete Origami. As a glossary, it defines most words and concepts of Origami, and the projects complement nicely the definitions.



2. I bought this book to learn some simple things to fold in a Kindergarten I used to work in, and it was an instant success! I was sat at the table for hours folding frogs and boats to the kids, and they seemed to really enjoy the creations! This is a great book for parents and pre-school teachers, and it is a great way to learn a little bit about geometry too. Some of the models are difficult to understand, but folding is about taking your time. A great way of finding a corner of peace in our rush-hour lifestyle!



3. The directions in this book can be hard to follow. I don't think there are 100 great projects in this book. Maybe 10? This book is pretty disappointing.



4. I had this book when I was 5 or 6 and absolutely adored it. I lost it and found interest in it again when I sat for an origami class and was reminded of it. The instructions are really easy to follow and there are great models for all ages.



5. This book is not what I expected. Instead of a collection of origami patterns, it's more of a collection of folding trivia, history, and folding projects, everything from paper cranes to how to put a cloth diaper on a baby.
   
   It is set up A-Z, with at least one entry for every letter of the alphabet. If you are looking strictly for a book of patterns, this is not for you. If you want to find out about the history and quirky side of origami, go for it!

5 comments about Folk Style: Innovative Designs to Knit, Including Sweaters, Hats, Scarves, Gloves and More (Style series).

1. I thought the book was very well presented with bright colourful photos, and the instructions were clear and easy to understand (and interpret for machine knitting!). Great book, well recommended.



2. This book is a creative inspiration! The color options are fresh and vibrant, and I can easily see making several of the small projects for my family without arousing that "Oh, no, where did Mom find this clunker?" response (I can see the Sunny Flowers Fez becoming an instant favorite with my granddaughter). Some of the body silhouettes are short trendy accent garments (patchwork jacket, Shanghai surplice) that would be easy to lengthen if coverage is an issue. The Algonquin socks and Bunad mukluks are adorable--just in time for winter!
   
   I really like the suggested embellishments--embroidery touches, buttons, unexpected details--that add whimsy without overloading the designs. Mags Kandis has opened a window to fresh design and color choices.



3. is what i love, but this beautiful book is so wonderful i want to learn to knit.its the funky and artsy,bohemian chic look that is usually found in a crochet piece all sweetly put together in a gorgeously photographed package of inspiration. now, i am off to ask my thirteen year old to teach me how to knit!



4. A great book with some unique patterns. These will also serve as very wearable items. Good for my knitting library.



5. I love the designs in this book. I am currently knitting the Modern Quilt Wrap and love it. If you are intending to
   make the designs in the book exactly as designed including types and colors of yarn it can be difficult to find the yarn as some colors have been discontinued, but this just allows a chance for more creativity.

5 comments about Silver Wire Jewelry: Projects to Coil, Braid & Knit (Lark Jewelry Book).

1. I love this book. It has step by step instructions simple enough for anyone to follow. Huge variety of techniques makes this book a great purchase. I wish I had found it sooner.



2. One of my favorite reference books. Unlike some of the other readers, I have had no difficulty in finding or following the directions for the gorgeous jewelry in this book. I usually just flag the photo page with a post it note, and use a bookmark for the instruction page. Then I can flip back and forth between photo and instruction without any problems at all. I have only been making wire and chain mail jewelry for about six months, and have no prior experience. Everything that I attempted to create following the instructions from this book has turned out very well. I highly recommend this one and the earlier book by this author (Great Wire Jewelry Projects & Techniques) as well.



3. A comprehensive guide to wire jewellery for both the beginner and advanced wire jewellery worker. Clear instructions and pictures.



4. A very well written book with new and old designs to help the creative juices flow, A must for anyone looking to broaden their skills.



5. I'm new to making jewelry, and am very interested in making chains by hand. This book has some very intriguing designs to play with. It holds my attention well,and I'm learning some really cool new stuff!!!

5 comments about Intertwined: The Art of Handspun Yarn, Modern Patterns and Creative Spinning (Handspun Revolution).

1. This is a one note and variation on a style of spinning yarn that I'm not a fan of nor do I like. For others this would be very exciting and challenging artistic expression. The patterns were good except I didn't like the spun yarn that was used.



2. I adore this book because of the artistic slant it takes rather than for its "how to spin" instructions. I am an artist who has worked with fiber for a long time, but mostly in mixed media sculptures, knitting and felting. I am a pretty inexperienced spinner. But although some of the techniques described in Intertwined may be beyond my spinning expertise (for now), the ideas it gave me are not! Unlike one of the other reviewers, I am not put off by the thought of mixing disparate elements into the spun fiber. In fact, I have always enjoyed mixing media - although I have been producing necklaces, art dolls and wall pieces rather than hats - so that might make for a different opinion. Even if I don't become an expert spinner overnight, I see myself plying some unusual combinations of yarns in the very near future, and I have this book to thank for the inspiration.



3. I'm dazzled. Seriously, visiting Lexi Boeger's already interesting Pluckyfluff web site, amazing as it is, doesn't come close to the fantastical, fun, magic world of yarn in this book. If you're into funky, offbeat, one-of-a-kind, this is your book. I really enjoyed how the author, through stepwise photos and text takes you inside the creation of her every-one-unique yarns. The designs to use them are appropriately simple, because with yarns made out of dolls, or flowers, or thread or shredded paper or all of the above, the yarn is art, your body a stabilizing surface on which to show it off.
   This wonderful book is appropriate for fiber artists, painters, knitters, sculptors and any museum goer who likes "cool" things. Can't recommend highly enough, has already been endorsed as "very interesting" by my generally not endorsement prone 16 year old.



4. From the very first page I knew my 'yarning' life would never be the same again! Lexi writes inspirationally, obviously loving her craft. It's almost impossible to decribe the impact this book has, one way of putting it is to say it's like being released from a 'cosy' module - and being twirled away into the infinite space of new dimensions!



5. I am relatively new to spinning, so my handspun is never perfect and even, but it is fun and I like it. This book gives the opportunity to think of yarn itself as a freestanding piece of art. It is exciting to see the colors and interaction of fibers in making a ball of yarn. Perhaps it is possible to think of yarn for yarn's sake. Actually the section on what to make with the yarn is unnecessary, as the yarn loses some of its artistic quality when made into a functional item. She makes the point that you have to learn the basics of spinning as a good foundation before you can make good art yarns. This is the basis of art, you have to learn the basic elements of composition before one can produce good abstract art. I would probably never slavishly copy anything in this book, as that is really not its intent. A book like this should inspire a fiber artist, or any artist, to think outside the box, to see things that are visually exciting. It is possible to visualize a highly interesting pile of wildly handspun yarn in a contemporary bowl in a gallery setting. If the objective of spinning is to make a hat, then nice and even will keep your ears warm. If fiber used in an aesthetically interesting way will make the viewer think that perhaps fiber can be a medium for real art and not just craft, then this book is inspirational.

5 comments about Beds.

1. An excellent book on bed construction. I built the pencil post bed that Jeff has in his book and the plans and advise were easy to follow. It came out looking great!

   A good book for the beginner to the experienced woodworker. Excellent color pictures and instructions for each type of bed.

   I recommend it highly to anyone who is going to think about building or commissioning a bed project.

   Thanks Jeff if you read this!




2. I am in the process of finishing up the bed shown on the cover of this book. It is the first bed and biggest project I have ever made since I have a samll shop and limited tools. It turns out beautifully that even surprises myself. Jeff Miller gives detailed instructions, design and material list that makes the project a easy task. I happen to have a mortise machine that makes the mortises for the slats much easier and nicer. Also, after I visited a local store, I easily changed dimensions of the bed to suit personal taste. I really enjoyed making this bed.



3. This book gave me the confidence to build a bed. I chose Jeff's most basic design and it went smoothly. I would not say this book is for the complete novice however. I had oversight from an experienced woodworker. Nevertheless, Jeff is a good writer with nice pictures. And opinions. The great thing about Tauton Press books is that they get experts to share their insights and opinions that you simply do not get from people like Time-Life

   The projects range in style, and they are all pleasing.




4. The whole series of these book's (desks, bookcase, tables, beds) is a must for all woodworkers.

   I built the Pencil Post Bed out of this book and will be working on another of the bed projects soon. I like the paperback style easy to read and comfortable to work with. The is a good mix of projects in these books some high end and some fairly basic, good detail on techniques and alternative constructive methods. Pictures are for the most part good. Only drawback in some places I'd like to see a bit more explanation in some places.




5. Have gotten a few here and although I'm just doing basic projects, these books are a great resource and provide tons of helpful information

3 comments about Chainsaw Carving a Bear.

1. Was easy to follow, had great step by step pictures following the project, would have like more projects and more info on finishing process but enjoyed book



2. This book provides a step-by-step process for carving a bear from a tree stump or large log. It also recommends needed tools, cautions and other useful information. It worked the first time on my 20" diameter, 10 ft high trunk left after our 70 ft balsam toppled in a windstorm at the cabin.



3. Product should ;have measurements not just pictures...Seems the author assumes a lot of the people reading....

5 comments about Barbara Randle's Crazy Quilting With Attitude.

1. The author's enthusiasm for crazy quilting is quite apparent as she writes with great passion. This is not your ORDINARY crazy quilt book. Most embellishments are machine stitched and the fabrics used are bold and vibrant. The projects shown are purses, lampshades, throws, and more. What is especially wonderful is the gallery. My favorites - the crazy quilted window treatment, the upholstered crazy quilted chair and the dog bed! The author's instructions are very clear. Her pictures are wonderful! I am very happy with the book and would recommend it, aside from the great projects and patterns it also makes for great eye candy!



2. I never heard of crazy quilt before and was never interested in quilting methods. This book changed my attitude and gave me the tools I needed to explore this old fashion medium. I simply love the color of the projects. I already done two and can not wait to continue. The explaination are clear, easy and anybody with a minimal sewing experience could do it. Great book, a lot of enthusiasm. A winner book!



3. This book is full of wonderful, colorful projects and techniques. It opened my eyes to the potential of my sewing machine. My only issue is that, to me, this isn't really crazy quilting. She uses strips of fabric whereas real C.Q. uses different shapes. This is more modified log cabin. Nonetheless, if you love color and embellishments, this book has a lot to offer.



4. This is a great book - I wasn't the least bit interested in quilting of any kind until I got this book. Barbara's "anything goes" attitude got me hooked and allowed my creativity to blossom.



5. This book will give you the confidence to explore the fun and artistry of crazy quilting. The steps in each of the projects is described and photographed in a simple and comprehensive manner. If you own one book about quilted bags make sure its this one.

5 comments about Extreme Lo-Carb Meals On The Go: Fast And Fabulous Solutions To Get You Through The Day.

1. Those who gave this a good review must not have tried any of the recipes.
   
   The book title says extreme lo-carb meals on the go. It is none of these things.
   
   A lot of the recipes contain low carb breads, pastas and tortillas which is fine if you have no weight to lose.
   
   The book promises fast recipes but tells you in the introduction that to the author fast means that the recipes can be cooked in less than an hour. Many of the recipes require that you prep ingredients in advance, the author calls "make ahead".
   
   Many of the recipes call for expensive, hard to find substitutions for sugar, wheat, and syrups.
   
   The only good recipes in the book, which were few and far between, I already had from free, online, low carb sites. (I saw two recipes out of the whole book that I would try and already had seen them online.)
   
   A huge disappointment and I was very excited by the reveiws given so I thought this would be a good resource for me.
   
   Save your money. Search online for the same recipes without the expensive ingredient substitutes.



2. I own this book and the recipes are bland. Most have salt and pepper as the main seasoning. This book also lacks continuity. What i mean is that each recipe seems to have a unique ingredient. So i cant just stock up on basics and prepare several meals from that. Each time i go to prepare a meal there is some new ingredient which i dont have and now have to buy.
   
   Also some of the recipes arent "extremely low carb". One recipe was 10 effective carbs (ie. net carbs) per small serving and about 25 carbs total. My normal portion size was like 40 net carbs!



3. I always worry when I see poor reviews but still order the book that I will be let down. This was not the case at all with this book.
   
   Being diabetic, I need to really watch my carbs. I thought this book was helpful for many reasons:
   
   1. Snacking - I need to eat 6 times a day to keep my blood sugar stable. I need snacks. Sharon Long gives two lists of snacks. One is those under 5 carbs and the other is under 10. What I liked was that the lists were not just of acceptable low carb foods ( low carb veggies, cooked meat, etc) but were actual recipes of things like (5 carb) orange essence almonds, smoked salmon dip and (10 carb) pumpkin granola and nutty caramel roll ups.
   
   2. Advice - The author discusses the truth about food bars, discusses ketosis and her experiences with both, talks about different types of restaurants and options you have, and gets real about handling cravings. Sure, most of this advice is common sense. However, the author tells it all from her own experiences as she has followed the low carb lifestyle for many years.
   
   3. Set Up - The book is split into sections for breakfast, lunch, main courses and desserts. There are shopping list, smaple menus, sugar conversion tables, susstitution lists and other indexes at the end. I found the book to be very user friendly.
   
   4. Nutritional Info - This is so very important to me in a cookbook. At the end of each recipe there was detailed nutrition info and the substitution to make the recipe low fat with that nutritional breakdown as well.
   
   I think this book is simple and excellent for people who plan meals and do prep work for the week. Recipes are easy to prepare and many can be made in batches for the week. Any specialty items are listed in the back and can be found in most health food stores. While a bit expensive, they are sold in bulk and last for a very long tie after the initial purchase. I highly recommend this book.



4. The book is helpful because it offers quick, very quick, solutions to the "what can I eat?" dilemma we lo-carbers experience.



5. Wow, this is such a good cookbook for those who work, the recipes are fast and easy and they're not short on good flavor, yet they have only a few ingredients. If you are wanting to take weight off fast, there are great combinations for snacks and easy dinners...This is worth the buying particularly if you need ideas for lunch that won't kill your diet away from home!

3 comments about Small Gas Engine Repair.

1. This book is very in-depth. From beginning to end it describes types of engines, troubleshooting,and individual engine components or systems. The book is certainly not a book for someone that does not already have a working knowledge of engines. The tech information and drawings are very confusing. There is little doubt that Mr. Dempsey knows all about engine repair. It is not a book for the average person that wants to learn to repair a lawn mower. If the author's intention was to provide a teaching text--in my opinion, he missed the mark.



2. This is an excellent book all the way through. Great diagrams and explanations on how to repair most small engines. Well written and very useful to the DIY repairman.
   
   However,
   
   If you're looking for a book that shows you how to change a spark plug, this is not the book for you. There are much better books out there for beginners and light tinkerers.
   
   This book assumes that not only are you mechanically proficient and have the tools to repair it yourself but also posess a basic understanding of how small engine mechanisms work already or can figure it out without too much effort.
   
   Not to say the average homeowner won't find it useful, but the author doesn't go in-depth or hold your hand through what should be moderately simple procedures for someone with basic experience in mechanical repair.
   
   That's what makes this either a good book or a bad book. If you know or can stumble your way around engines, this is a great book that gives you the information you need to properly repair many different models and makes.
   
   If you're someone whose lawnmower broke down last weekend and you thought it might be fun to fix it yourself but you don't have a lot of tools or experience on repairing engines then there are probably some better books out there.
   
   I like this book simply because the author doesn't waste any time (or paper) explaining things that you should already know. Think of it like Small Engine Repair 201 instead of Small Engine Repair 101.
   
   I'll probably hang onto this book for as long as I have small gas engines I may need to repair since it makes such a great reference book.
   
   --James



3. This is the best book for troubleshooting that I have seen. There are nice flow charts that really help you to decide where to look. The text is well written and the drawings are clear. You don't even have to read between the lines to understand that an experienced mechanic has written this one. It doesn't just say "remove the flywheel", it tells you how to remove the flywheel. Recommended.

5 comments about Madeleine Vionnet.

1. This book is an absolute dream right through from the beautiful hard cover to the wonderful photographs, history and patterns. I am a Designer/Patternmaker and is the most beautiful book I have ever bought on fashion. Betty Kirke has put a lot of love and care into this treasure and any student of fashion, especially patternmaking and draping has to purchase this and learn a whole lot about bias cutting.



2. A great book on Vionnet's work and life. It has a lot of sewing patterns with instuctions from the WWI era to late 1930's; the patterns include day and evening dresses and frocks, capes and coats, slips and pajamas. Plus there a lot more pictures of Vionnet's clothing. The perfect gift for a fashion student. It is a pity that you do not hear so much about her.



3. This book is even better than I hoped. The photographs are stellar and for some designs - a bird's eye view of the pattern peices are included. Try to wrap your head around those non-conventional cutting techniques! I bought this for myself but this would be an excellent gift for someone interested in Fashion History, Fashion Design, Fine / Decorative Arts, etc. Super-Gorgeous book!



4. This is an outstanding book on a revolutionary designer. Wonderful photos, and "patterns" from the clothing. the only problem is Kirke never bothers to tell you what the scale is, so making these patterns is almost impossible. Her directions for making the patterns are laughable. The patterns are white lines on black. Why include patterns if you aren't going to put them in a usable form? There are people out there who can and have made clothing from this book. You will have to be very smart and well trained to do so. that said it is still one of the best books on a fashion designer I have seen.
   
   Maybe Kirke will redesign the book with the pattern section properly done. Then the book would be worth more then $100.



5. Es lo mejor que he tenido , el libro de un diseñador donde estan patrones, diseños y fotos...que mas se puede pedir!
   Ojala se hicieran mas libros como este .
   España,profesion: patronista