5 comments about Quilt Savvy: Gaudynski's Machine Quilting Guidebook (Quilt Savvy).

1. The designs that Diane presents in the book are certainly worth trying and practicing until they're perfect. This book is for the machine quilter who uses a domestic sewing machine.



2. I must have at least 30 books alone on just quilting designs. This is more than that though. It explains everything, or almost everything, you would need to know about quilting your designs on your quilt. I don't know what I did without it. I do know my free motion quilting has improved greatly and I keep it right by my machine. The only quilter that comes close to Diane is Sharon Schamber. Both are just wonders in my book. Thanks so much for writing this.



3. This book is complementary to her Guide to Machine quilting, This book is more like doing a class with Diane and she shows various methods of background quilting. recommended for anyone who wants to learn more on freestyle quilting.



4. I totally LOVE this little book. I suggest it to anyone who wants to machine quilt. This book is written for quilting on a domestic machine, but I just purchased a long-arm and this is my absolute favorite book. Her quilting is awesome and the pictures are great. She clearly explains several excellent "background" and "filler" patterns - all of which are easy to do. I was so tired of just settling for basic meandering. She talks a lot about the different threads she likes and why, and even gives a list of her favorites. You will not be disappointed in this book. And did I mention it is "spiral bound".



5. This is an excellent book for those interested in quilting on their home machine. The writing is clear and the photographs provide further clarification.

5 comments about Complete Metalsmith, Student Edition.

1. This is easy to follow with step by step instructions. If you are interested in learning metal smithing, I highly recommend this book. It is a great resource book for future use as well.



2. This is a wonderful book for a metal working student just starting out. It contains technical information in an easy to follow format, as well as lots of illustrations and clear directions. The coil on the spine makes the book easy to follow while working on a project. The student edition is a great place to start in learning this new craft



3. This is a handy little book to keep by your bench for a quick reference. You'll find basic information of what something is - not always how its used. I'm still learning metalsmithing and this little book complements my jewelry project books. I found it helpful and informative in this regard.



4. Complete Metalsmith, Student Edition is an excellent resource. As someone completely new to metalsmithing I was hearing terms that I could not figure out and this book has them all. It is well written and seems very complete. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a reference book meant for the years. The construction is well thought out with a firm but flexible cover and wire binding. It is a convenient size to have on your work table at all times.



5. Complete Metalsmith, Student Edition
   this book is great for any type of metalsmithing in jewelry. It explains in detail what you need to do. Highly recommended for all beginners in the jewelry world.

4 comments about Trim Complete (Taunton's Complete).

1. I have several books on Trim and this one seems to be the most updated and exhaustive on the subject. I really enjoy the layout and the way the information is presented.



2. Excellent book. Lots of photos and step by step instructions. Highly recommended for weekend carpenter like me.



3. Previous reviewers are correct in describing this book as the best on the subject of trim work. I have many Taunton publishing books and as usual the photography is excellent! I have looked at other trim books and usually they are full of 'line' drawings. There is nothing like a great pic to illustrate how a project is being done.



4. This is by far one of the best trim carpentry books that I have read. Very well written, with detailed pictures taking you step by step through various projects. I would recommend this book to anyone.

5 comments about The New Acrylics: Complete Guide to the New Generation of Acrylic Paints.

1. This is an easy to follow guide to acrylic paints, mediums and techniques. It cleared up so much confusion I had about mediums, gels, pastes, glazes and finishes. And it's beautifully illustrated with great color photos that I found to be extremely inspirational. I can't wait to get started practicing some of these techniques in my paintings and mixed media pieces.



2. I LOVE THIS BOOK! I've already used many of the new techniques and loved the results. Some of the products needed for the techniques in this book can be hard to come by in stores, so I'm having to order online. It is a very new approach to acrylics that open up a new world! I think this is a must have. It also teaches you things about new products that are really great that I cant wait to use. It is worth every penny. And the book isn't one of those art books that is dry and or thinks you are stupid. It covers what you need to know quickly and with interesting information. It has many many many pictures. Covers techniques, new materials, and much more. again get this book!



3. This book is a top-pro product. Its pictures inside are well enough to be a piece of art. Very useful, helpful, and instructive.



4. The New Acrylics: Complete Guide to the New Generation of Acrylic Paints
   
   Rheni Tauchid has written an up-to-date, comprehensive and easy-to-understand book that is likely to give new ideas to anyone using Acrylics. This is a "must read" for anyone using Acrylic Paints.



5. I'll be honest, I'm not too interested in the scientific and chemical blah blah blah of acrylic paint. But this book provided a great inspiration and exposed me to a lot of mediums I never knew existed. Highly recommended for the technical and the eye candy.

5 comments about Creative Weaving: Beautiful Fabrics with a Simple Loom.

1. This book is a compilation of full page pictures of plain weave using different colors of yarn, some texture changes, some novelty stuff. Chapters are divided by color. 4 reds, 4 blues, etc. There is nothing of substance here and for me, absolutely no inspiration. Save your money. My copy is going straight to auction.



2. I needed this book. I am new at weaving and this has inspired me and helped me through the learning process. There are very few books on the rigid heddle loom and this is a keeper. You need this book if you are considering weaving on a RH Loom. I love it.



3. Very nicely done, but I could have used a little more direction on the projects and more photos of these photos.



4. I purchased this book right after I bought my rigid heddle loom. It is filled with photos of beautiful but simple weaving... and that is the bulk of the book. There is very basic information, emphasis on 'very'. In my opinion the book is good for skimming through for inspiration, but if you are needing detailed instruction, information, or how-to patterns then look elsewhere.



5. This book has a beautifully written and illustrated section at the beginning on warping and setting up a rigid heddle loom. The descriptions for each design are quite a bit less detailed. I got some great ideas from this book, but it might be frustrating to a complete beginner.

5 comments about The Complete Book of Origami: Step-by Step Instructions in Over 1000 Diagrams (Origami).

1. I agree with several of the reviewers here. As a "purist" I object to models that don't start with a square, of which there are many here. I am also bothered by measurements that do not arise from the creases themselves (eg "fold into thirds".) Finally, Lang jumps from very easy to very advanced, with virtually nothing in-between (and uses harder folding sequences than neccessary IMO, Montroll achieves similar complexity in his finished models with far less difficulty.)
   If you are willing to look past these objections, the finished models themselves are frequently amazing.



2. this book would fit nicely on a shelf in bill gates mansion. If you're a hardcore nerd and grew up within the 80s and 70s, played with erector sets and studied quantum physics at the age of 2 then you may be able to decode the rocket science behind the drawings and instructions given in this book. nay on the origamay



3. An excellent book for beginners and continuing students of origami. Many color photo step-by-step illustrations of simple and more complicated models. Well worth buying.



4. This book has some of the most original models I've seen among origami books (including a particularly impressive clock). However, many of the instructions are vague or extremely difficult to fold as described. Some of the more advanced models will take lots of experimentation to figure out what the intended fold is.



5. I have enjoyed this book for the past 18 years, and have figured out about three quarters of the full content. But I have been frustrated for the past 18 years, too... I have never been able to go past the 32nd step of the grand piano figure... and I wonder if anybody has ever been able to figure out how to finish the whole model!!! I wish Mr. Lang would demonstrate how he does it himself in one of his videos... and then I would be so much happier!!!

5 comments about The Dore Illustrations for Dante's Divine Comedy.

1. The Illustrations from the 1st canto in the Inferno to the last of Paradiso are great because they help as a visual aid when reading the Divina Commedia. One can really see how and in which ways Dore, when he design the illustrations, followed the text very closely.



2. I have looked at a variety of Dante artists. Some well known and some are not. Suloni Robertson, John Flaxman, Willam Blake, Sandro Botticelli, Sandow Birk, Herb Roe. Do a google search to look at the works of some of these like Sandow Birk. There are some that are more obscure which in a way documents the Comedy, more specifically the Inferno. I'm not going to say who I don't like but Dore is the best. I am rather specific about artists. Dore makes the grade. He is good, really good and when you look at this book, you feel like you are in the terrible depths of hell. I like purgatorio too. I feel the religious prayer songs in my head as I see Beatrice's entrance. There is so much symbolism in these pictures, especially in Paradiso. Though I do disagree with the depiction of Muhammad in hell, the rest is fantastic. I mean that he looks more like he's British then Middle Eastern. I imagine him with blonde hair in the plate. The tortured look on Dante's face in the plate with Betrand de Born, (The cover pic) is extraordinary. I felt how he felt. That is why Dore is so good. I had also hoped for more detail with Ugolino because his story is fantastically horrifying.
   
   The book is a must for any Dante fan. I look at it a lot, even if I have seen the pictures hundreds of times. I really don't think that you can get bored with this. There is always something new to look at. Some detail you looked over. Buy this book because the scans online don't give the justice that this book has. Buy it, look it over, get inspired by it. Maybe we will see your work on Amazon in the near future.



3. The quality of this book - along with an amazingly affordable price tag - quickly persuaded me to pick up a copy. Its really everything you could ask for in an art book;
   
   The pictures are all very big, but not overwhelming; Its easy to see minute detail, and the overall scope of the image. I actually blew up some of the prints in photoshop and printed them on huge poster paper for my room, while not sacrificing a drop of detail.
   
   Also, I had to put quite a good deal of pressure onto the spine of the book in order to get a good scan from them, and im happy to say that doing so didn't even leave an annoying "bookmark" crease in the book, and the spine didn't even crease. Dover books really did produce a fine quality book, and the note on the back really is true: This book IS permanent.
   
   If you have read or are reading the divine comedy this book is a great reference to glance at every now and again to truly suck you into Dante's epic poem, and bring you to the Heights of Heaven, The Depths of Hell, or the pain of purgatory in a way you could never have imagened.
   
   The woodcuts done here by dore are so elaborate and vivid you could spend a good portion of a day just gazing into the faces of cursed souls writhing in hell, or the beauty of millions of angels soaring in the highest heaven. Dore illustrates every picture so full of movement and depth its the next best thing to a movie.



4. This guy is pretty much in the same league as Jack Kirby. Whereas Kirby's all soft lines and images pancaked on the page, Dore looks like he's carving his cartoons into a tree. And all these scary demons and things look tired, like they've been running marathons all day. The victims kind of look like they're enjoying it, so I guess if you're into S&M, I could recommend it. Me, I prefer "Spawn" by Todd McFarlane. The Violator? Now that's a monster you can sink your eyeballs into. And I know it's like super-uber hip, but I don't know why these illustrators feel they are so special when they work exclusively in shades of black. Like my momma used to say, "A little rouge really accents the cheekbones."



5. Book arrived in promised condition, and in a timely fashion. I would buy from this seller again.

5 comments about Quilting 101: A beginners guide to quilting.

1. So far seems to be a good basic book for the beginner



2. A friend bought this book for my 13 year old daughter. She is new to quilting and using a sewing machine, and has found this book so easy to follow.



3. I have a good amount of sewing experience so I was hesitant about purchasing this book thinking it might be too basic. Also, I wondered if I would be interested in actually completing many of the projects. I am glad I made the purchase! I have no experience in machine quilting so I appreciate the detailed, simple instructions. Most of the projects are ones I actually want to make and use or could give as gifts. I would say more except that I would just be echoing all the positive things previously written. If you would rather learn machine quilting from a book rather than a in a quilting class, this is the book for you!



4. This is a wonderful how-to book for beginning quilters. It has step-by-step instructions for many different projects and includes many of the most popular quilting patterns. The projects are modest (squares, runners, placemats, totes, wall hangings, etc.) and well matched to a beginner's skill progression. The price is very reasonable also. All in all, it is a very good buy.



5. The book was more than I could have imagined. I've never quilted a day in my life, but with this book I feel as if I can make anything my mind can illustrate. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to learn how to quilt. Thanks!

5 comments about The Complete Idiot's Guide to Cigars, 2nd Edition (Complete Idiot's Guide to).

1. Very good book. The cigar newbie to novice can really benefit from reading it as it covers all the basics. Even some long time aficionados may learn a thing or two.
   I especially enjoyed the detailed information on the art of making a cigar. I didn't know just how much work goes into each cigar. It goes through an arduous journey from being a tiny seed to the finished product. It takes many years before the final product is ready for you to enjoy. A cigar is truly a work of art. An excellent book for all cigar lovers.



2. Book which wide open new cigar world for those who just start. Every aspects, like buying storing, ethic of smoking, history of making. EVERYTHING! Must have!



3. If I was an idiot this book would be usefull. I did learn a little from it and it is well written.



4. I would like to thank all the folks who have bought my book since 1997 and have placed my book as the top-selling cigar book on Amazon, and have made put me in the top 1/10th of 1 percent of all Amazon book sellers, in any category! I think this makes a statement about the enjoyment of cigars.
   
   The Celtics won the NBA title in 2008 and yes, you saw the players hoisting the trophy and puffing cigars. Just like Michael Jordan enjoyed a big stogie when the Bulls won back in the 1990s. The ultimate celebration is a cigar. No denying it. Readers: your reviews and comments reflect exactly what I had hoped from my readers -- a great primer for beginners, but enough content for more experienced cigar smokers who would like to know more about why they enjoy the cigars they enjoy. I couldn't ask any more than the reader who said the book offered a limited amount of information to him (he was a more experienced cigar lover) but that it was well written. If nothing else, I want it to be a fun and interesting read for you.
   
   Thanks to the greatest and largest publisher in the world, Pearson and Penguin, for wanting to re-up and come out with a second edition. I never would have imagined, but could only have hoped that despite all the negativity about smoking, the cigar, like the peace pipe of old, represents friendship and relaxation. Thanks, and happy puffing. - Tad Gage



5. This book provides an understanding of cigar tobacco production methods from planting to curing, the differences in cigar products, and why prices vary. The author provides a cigar rating system that is a must for those who try many types of cigars, and he is clear as to his own preferences and uses. You'll find everything you need to know about caring for and smoking cigars, and the accessories needed. And it's a quick read; though packed with information, the book can be read in a day.

5 comments about Positively Crochet!: 50 Fashionable Projects and Inspirational Tips.

1. I bought this book hoping for a fun crochet book with a variety of patterns, and it met my hopes marvelously. The patterns are all cute. There is a lot of variety: sweaters, lacy tunics, shrugs, purses, scarves, and jewelry, just to name a few. Everything is hip and would dress up a pair of jeans nicely.
   
   One of the best things about this book is that the author gives ample information about the materials of each project, making yarn substitution very easy. She lists the name, yardage, and colors of the yarn she used, as well as the weight of the yarn. Every project has a gauge. In several projects she even gives specific suggestions or advice for a substitution. Most of the projects are knit up in inexpensive yarn. It is clear that she has given consideration to the affordability of her projects.
   
   Unfortunately, the only pattern I've tried (Chain of Flowers Scarf), I could not get the written instructions to match the picture. It was not hard for me to adjust the pattern and the scarf came out beautifully. However, such mistakes could give the novice crocheter a good bit of a headache. Hopefully, the rest of the book is better.
   
   I should mention a few things that this book /isn't/. This book /isn't/ a learn-to-crochet book. There is absolutely no instruction on how to crochet. However, the projects are fairly simple and (given that there aren't too many mistakes) would be an ideal for a beginner who knows the rudiments and wants to do something with them.
   
   This book also /isn't/ a beautiful, heirloom quality crochet book. Nothing is particularly lovely in the classic sense. Although the patterns can be adapted, the current photography and yarn choices are aimed mainly at teenagers (funky and cute come to mind). There is no lace to speak of, only fishnet and mesh. I wouldn't count on finding anything in here for an elegant-evening-out occasion, nor anything that is anywhere near heirloom quality.
   
   As a last note, I have to say that I was very disappointed with the author's attitude in her introduction: As a young crafter who loves both knitting and crocheting, it just makes me sad when knitters or crocheters feel obliged to snipe at each other. Knitting and crocheting are both fun and beautiful. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and I don't see why anyone would want to dwarf one with the other. I encourage every crafter to learn both.
   
   All in all, a good casual accessory book, a good first book of crochet patterns, and especially good for younger people.



2. I recieved this book as a gift. I love it. There are 3 fantastic tops all on my "to make" list! There are several creative and fun accessories. Mary Jane Hall uses a wide variety of fibres, and still gives enough information for the crocheter to make substitutions as desired. I am an avid crocheter, and have been for many years. It is a thrill to see designs with excellent shaping and drape, classic, modest and fun patterns, all in one book. I highly recommend this book!



3. There are some great patterns and inspiring ideas, but I was disappointed because the majority of patterns are for scarves - many of which are meant as fashion statements and are not practical.



4. I ordered my book from Amazon and it came quicker then I had planned.
   I was so excited to get it I opened the pack right away and started looking through the book.. I am a long time crocheter and have many many crochet books but think this one will be one of my favorites for sure... I has great usable patterns, sometimes ya buy a book and there maybe only a few you will really use... Love the way the pages were laid out with the little hints and Words of Encouragement they really add personality and warmth to the book.. It was also very interesting to read about the Author Maryjane and the Life and Crochet article...by the end of the day I received my book I had got out some yarn I had and started one of the patterns!! Think I just might wear out this book... I would strongly suggest this book to those who crochet.. Have already told a few friends, relatives about it.
   
   Oct,2008 update..
   I do have an added remark about this book.. Those who didn't like the book etc.. Be realistic when buying a book be it crochet or knit or any pattern book there is no way that everyone is going to love and use every pattern the book has..
   I have had this book for some time now and it is still one of my favorite crochet books and I have lots and lots of crochet books.



5. I really like this book. There are patterns for beginners and patterns for people who like a bit of challenge. The patterns are written so thoroughly and concisely that it is very easy to try new combinations of stitches. In addition, the yarns called for in this book are very sensible yarns, nothing too outrageous. You are mostly working with smooth yarns and standard stitches. I have always appreciated patterns that let the stitches do the design elements and are not weighed down with novelty yarn. This book is a wonderful resource with varied types of patterns and techniques. I would recommend it to anyone at any level of crochet ability.