1 comments about Gooseberry Patch Christmas All Through the House: Over 600 holiday recipes, cheery crafts, and easy-to-make gifts for flurries of fun! (Gooseberry Patch).

1. This is a beautifully put together spiral type book. It's huge too!
   My only complaint is I have all the Gooseberry Patch Christmas books 1-10. If you are like me and have many or all of them then I wouldn't purchase this book. It's a compiled version of the best of those books. For that reason I give it a 3 star. I was very disappointed to find all the recipes, crafts and such I already have in the other books. Unless I missed it I think Gooseberry should have stated that in the description of the book. If you haven't collected or have any of those other Christmas books from Gooseberry then I would say buy this one and I would give it 5 stars. It's a fun book to look at with many great recipes and ideas for celebrating the holidays.

5 comments about Extreme Pumpkin Carving: 20 Amazing Designs from Frightful to Fabulous.

1. 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.



2. 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.



3. 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.



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



5. 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.

5 comments about French-Inspired Jewelry: Creating with Vintage Beads, Buttons & Baubles.

1. If you like collecting charms, this book is for you. Lots of fun pictures and interesting stories about charms and their famous owners. If you want instructions how to make your own charm bracelets this book is not for you.



2. This is one of the most beautifully designed and inspiring jewelry books I have ever read. I went right out and bought a ton of gorgeous supplies and began creating.



3. This is my all-time favorite book on jewelry making. Each page is a treasure. The illustrations are exquisite, the directions are so easy to understand, and the jewelry is breath-taking.



4. This book is beautifully illustrated. The instructions are simple but thorough.Every projest is lovely. I keep the book open, on my dining room table to one of the gorgeous jewelry display pages.I`ve put a pretty teacup and saucer next to it as an inviting vignette. For anyone interested in crafting vintage inspired costume jewelry, this book is a must-have.



5. This was a fantastic source of inspiration for me! It showed me how to incorporate different colors together and also sent me on extra special bead quests! I definitely recommend it!

5 comments about The Pop-Up Book: Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating Over 100 Original Paper Projects.

1. Wonderful projects. I do wish the directions were a little clearer. Best for intermediate-to-advanced card makers.



2. No, this book doesn't have luscious designs for you to copy & make.
   
   What it does have that makes it a superior book on the subject are logical. easy to understand directions on how to design & make your own versions. This book also alerts you to problems that might appear if you ignore underlying structural mechanics.
   
   Of the books I own on this subject, this one has been the springboard that has allowed me to design my own successful and creative pop-ups.
   
   If you want to make someone else's designs, this isn't the book for you. If you want to express yourself using imaginative pop-ups that are your own designs -- and that work -- then I recommend this book!



3. Nice book with lots of pictures. What it could use in my opinion is an explanation of the more complex or less common pop-up methods. Now I have to figure a lot out myself because it is not in the book.
   
   I'm not tatally satisfied with this book and will definately need another one to complete the pop-up book i'm making.



4. I became the shipment very quickly. The book is good for someone who never had make paper creations with pop-up techniques before.



5. Unusual additions to cards, and scrapbooks! Eye catching to say the least! Never knew how easy a pop up could be!!!!

5 comments about Making Metal Jewelry: Projects, Techniques, Inspiration.

1. As a wire artist and beginning silversmith I found this book a great addition to my collection. The photos were great and the ideas throughout were most helpful. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves making jewelry. It would be most beneficial to the experienced jewelry maker.The ideas and patterns are not for the beginner but, it would challenge you to learn more as they are very beautiful and unique.



2. I first saw this book in a metalsmithing class and liked it well enough that I bought it for my home library. Ms. Gollberg reviews a number of techniques for cold-connecting metals and illustrates them with excellent photographs. Her materials lists are complete, her instructions concise, and her projects are always interesting. I may not ever make anything from this book as shown, but the ideas and techniques provide plenty of inspiration and guidance.



3. Very informative, I have learned and used several different techniques in this book. There is an abundance of creative ideas. The techniques described are very easy to follow and apply. The money spent for the cost of the book was so well worth it. Worth every penny and more!!!



4. Cold connections are not merely the last resort for jewelry artists who lack a torch or soldering set-up. These projects are refined and sophisticated, taking cold connections to a highly sophisticated level with plenty of challenge for even advanced metalsmiths. However, none of the projects is beyond the ability level of beginners, and all could lend themselves to different materials and treatments according to how much you'd like to spend. This is a really good book for anyone wishing to master cold connections on any level.



5. First off - learn a few basic techniques such as those found in the McCreight book "The Complete Metalsmith" - but then dive into this wonderful book. Why?
   1. Cold Connections - incredible technique useful in many applications
   2. Great Projects - easy for beginner (trust me on this) but doable and interesting for the advanced metalsmith.
   3. Photos that go with directions on how to use or make items.
   4. Well written. My compliments to the author - Joanna Gollberg.
   5. Projects allow for creative modification and can inspire one to move into a different design flow.
   6. Gallery of metal art - not too excessive (I love the groovy ring designs by Beth Piver).
   7. The price! What an incredible inexpensive book that has a plethora of information and inspiration. I really wish I purchased this book from Amazon rather than my local bookstore paying $25...but then again, I was new to this field and have since learned my lesson.
   
   So with the above mentioned, I don't see how any metalsmith should be without this book, particularly when learning/reviewing cold connections. It is amazing how these connections can easily be hidden OR used as a design interest. This is definitely one of my top five books on metalsmithing.

5 comments about Knitting Rules!: The Yarn Harlot's Bag of Knitting Tricks.

1. I've read this book at least twice now. It's great for new and old knitters and it's one of the few laugh-out-loud books I've read. Stephanie has a way of getting right to the heart of all things knitting, and the things we think about all the while. She also gives great tips and references for whatever project you're working on.
   
   I got this book in great condition and much earlier than I had expected it!



2. I am enjoying this like a great dessert - savoring each chapter. As a life long knitter, it's a joy. Any knitter would appreciate the information, stories and humor - we've all been there (sometimes more than once) and it's great to know we're not alone!



3. I regularly read and enjoy Stephanie's blog, and have followed the Yarn Harlot's exploits for years. While her first book was a bit recycled, this one is terrific: original, creative, interesting, engaging, and chock FULL of ACTUAL knitting and patterns. I don't think any of her later book compare with the quality and quantity of this one. Definitely her best book! If you buy only one Yarn Harlot book, this would be the one to choose.



4. The Yarn Harlot, as the author is commonly known, not only has incredible amounts of knitting knowledge but a great sense of humor as well! I laughed out loud more times than I can count while reading this book. She is very straight forward about herself and her knitting habits, knitting mistakes, family life, etc. She's self-deprecating and freely admits she doesn't know everything (of which I am doubtful!) and her writing style is more like having a conversation with her rather than reading a book.
   
   I love when she talks about how addicted to yarn she is, how she manages to hide her "stash" around the house, and how she rationalizes her oftentimes expensive yarn habit. I could totally relate.
   
   And you just gotta love the "recipes" she comes up with for making items such as socks, hats, scarves, etc. I used her math to make my very first hat -- and it worked!
   
   Her tips are easy to understand and use, her knitting philosophy accessible and hilarious. This book is a MUST HAVE for every knitter, whether they've only just started, know nothing at all, or have been knitting for decades. Would make a great gift!



5. If you're a beginner looking for precise information, don't buy this book. If your a Knitter who takes Knitting VERY seriously, don't buy this book.
   But, if you're a knitter who would find it refreshing to glean a few good insights from the experience of another while laughing your head off, then buy this book and enjoy it.

5 comments about The Everything Kids' Money Book: From Saving to Spending to Investing - Learn All About Money! (Everything Kids Series).

1. This is a valuable book about $$. And it isn't just for kids. I'm actually buying one for a grown-up for the terrific advice!



2. Great book for kids to learn about money. Not only does it give suggestions on how to make money, but most importantly what to do with the money once you've earned it.
   
   *Ideas for making money.
   *Tips on how to spend money wisely.
   *Most importantly ways to invest the money that you've earned so your money can multiply.



3. This book definitely teaches a lot about money itself. Over half of the book is on the history of money, how it has been used in the past, America's coins and paper money (including reading a dollar bill and anti-counterfeiting), different types of banking (savings, checking, plastic and electronic) and even ventures into discussing the Euro. On page 80, it begins introducing where money comes from (allowance, gifts and working) and the book closes with a chapter on investing but parents may wish to look for a book devoted to teaching investing (if that is your objective).
   
   This book reminds me more of a fun trivia book or a book one would use for a school report. It definitely has a lot to teach in terms of money facts, several of which, I am sure many adults do not know. There are also "Fun with Money" sections (penny relay races, don't move the penny, hiding the coin, etc.) in each chapter which will surely keep kids entertained. This is one of the unique things found in this book as opposed to others. I wouldn't be surprised if kids read all those pages first!



4. This book is ok. I have been reading it with my eight year old daughter. The reading contents are somewhat complex for an eight year old to grasp. I have to really break down what the author is saying. If this book is for kids I believe the author could have done a better job in making it a little friendlier. I am looking for another book to invest in, one that is a little simpler.



5. My eight year old liked this book, but not as much as some other books about money and investing. The illustrations could have been a little more colorful.

5 comments about 500 Handmade Dolls: Modern Explorations of the Human Form (500 Series).

1. A lapsed dollart maker myself, I was looking for inspiration to start again, along with other artforms, mixed media things....so this juicy and satisfyingly-sized volume seemed promising. I didn't want any how-to's, because I'd explored that in depth in the '90s. In this book, I found new works by favorite doll artists, (missed some I wish had been included), but was thrilled to discover a few new artists to add to my list. Seems like art is evolving to include even more of what we can make of it and dollart is perhaps at last being recognized for a valid art form. So if you are looking for inspiration, or just want to gaze and be thrilled, treat yourself to this book; it's well done.



2. I found this book to be a very good resource for inspiring examples of mixed media sculpture and 3 D art. The
   photography is excellent and the color vibrant. The level of examples ranges from very complex to simple and
   readers will be able to gain know-how and the boost to try this art form themselves.



3. This is a wonderful inspiring book full of all kinds of dolls. The photographs are fabulous, I've purchased 2 books, gave one to a friend and kept one for myself, and she loved it too.



4. A compendium of figurative art, 500 Handmade Dolls opens the door to a facinating subject and the artists who work in the human form. Highly recommended.



5. I bought this book for inspiration and ideas. I can't say enough how pleased I am with the book. I look through it almost every day. I highly recommend for any doll artist or collector.

5 comments about Illustrated Cabinetmaking: How to Design and Construct Furniture That Works.

1. I bought this book because I have difficulty in two areas. One is in visualizing the construction details for a design I've sketched out. The other is in deciding what joints will be most appropriate. This book covers those two topics extremely well. In fact, better than any other book in my library.
   
   The text is very well written. He says what he has to say in a concise and easy to read way.
   
   I think it was written for intermediate and advanced level woodworkers, but I see a lot that would be of great value to beginners who want to try their hand at something a little more challenging.



2. This thick little book is filled with dimensional drawings of all kinds of furniture, including the very high-end furniture and some historical pieces. The author goes into great detail about every type of joint with some practical commentary on the pros and cons of each type. There are also detailed sections on legs and feet, table types, and drawer construction.
   
   My only letdown, as an amateur furniture hobbyist, is that there is little or no talk about tool usage and how to make some of these pieces. The author favored information about origins, history, and aesthetics. However, the book makes up for this with its great perspective drawings on every page, complete with dimensions and names for each component. This will be a great resource down the road when I need to know how to construct a unique joint or when I just want to see something new to inspire me.



3. If you're looking for a book on how to build cabinets, this ain't it. This is a primer on how to build furniture (which is often referred to as cabinet-making) but references to building cabinets are brief and limited. It's really an overview of furniture building rather than a hands-on, how-to book.



4. The illustrations in this book are very good. However, for those who are experienced woodworkers. this might not be what you would want for new information in cabinet making. Some parts are somewhat outdated with the new tools and fasteners that are available today.
   
   It was interesting reading and made a good donation to the local highschool shop class.



5. Like most hobby woodworkers I've got stacks of magazines and books around the house, the garage (shop) and the "office"; this book always seems to be floating around the top. I'm constantly refering to it anytime I even think about a new project. My biggest complaint is that it makes me want to build more furniture then I have room in my house for. This book isn't for everyone, if you're the type of person that wants the bill of materials and exact dimensions this book may frustrate you a little, but if you can look at a basic drawing and follow it then you'll be okay.

5 comments about Wedding Bouquets: Over 300 Designs for Every Bride.

1. As a professional special event florist who specializes in weddings, this is another book I keep in my consultation room for brides to browse and reference. I'm partial to design books that contain a lot of photos so this one earns high marks from me, but the drawbacks are it's size (small, which means the photos are also small) and that it's a paperback so it doesn't hold up to wear and repeat usage like a hardbound book. Most of the designs are current and contemporary, which is nice after seeing so many outdated wedding design books from the 80's and 90's still on bookstore shelves, but some of the designs lack "that certain something" that make the bouquets really stand out and personalized to the bride. As a designer I'm never super excited about anything cookie-cutter (see cover photo as an example) because it can easily become a crutch for clients who aren't confident making floral selections and also a crutch for florists who don't want to spend the quality time needed for a proper consultation. However, if used as an initial reference for size, shape, and to build designs from, the book will certainly provide that and a bit more. Based on what I've observed from brides browsing and using this book during consultations at my location, easy-to-please brides usually find a few styles in the book that they like, but fussier brides browse through the book quickly (rarely stopping on any one style) and move on to other books. It is a nice little book for the price though -- quality photography and an overall good value.



2. I love this little book! I am a Wedding & Event Florist and I use this book when I consult with clients. It's packed with great bouquet examples, beautiful crisp pictures, and it gives my clients the chance to observe colors in flower combinations that they never would have originally put together!



3. Each section of this book is categorized by colors, starting with white, ivory and cream, then yellow, then peach and orange, then red, then pink, then lilac and purple, and finally mixed and unusual. I knew my colors right off the bat but I still was inspired by every page. It's only real flaw is it's size, which once you get it and look through it, doesn't create that much of an issue. Not only does it give you flower ideas but also a variety of ways to create a handle and tie the bouquet. A good book for a bride who is doing all the arranging, like I am, or just brainstorming ideas with her florist.



4. This book has such wonderful colored pictures and each picture is close up so you can see all the beautiful details... This is a must have for anyone having a wedding or even a florist to let their bride look through for ideas...



5. A good building block for the bride and florist to get ideas of colour schemes and styles the bride might like. I took my copy into to Tafe(Technical and Further Education) and ended up ordering another three copys for fellow students.