5 comments about Nicky Epstein's Crocheted Flowers.

1. I want to preface this with the fact that I love Nicky Epstein's designs. I get withdrawal waiting for new books. But...
   
   Her instructions SUCK! The best example I have of this is the "Fiesta Flower Handbag". I had many many issues with this (while I was trying to make it for my mother for mother's day no less).
   
   First of all, the required yarn amounts are WAY off. You need 5 skeins of the MC, at least three of the green and two of each of the pink and grape. I had to stop twice to wait on ordered (my LYS is over 92 miles away) yarn (still waiting on some now actually). And for the first time in my life I actually used the recommended yarn for something!!!
   
   Secondly, there is not PRE-felting guage or main panel measurements! How can I figure out if I have even remotely the right size if I have to finish and felt the dang thing before I can measure it. I'm just hoping its close.
   
   Thirdly, the florettes on the handle fold just do not look like the picture, no matter how I read it or try to figure it out (and I am a Master Crocheter) it doesn't look like the picture.
   
   Fourthly, the pictures!!! The instructions tell you to use the picture as a guide, but it only has ONE! There is no picture of the side pockets, even though the instructions say to use it as a guide!!!
   Fifthly, the instructions tell you to edge each piece with pink, while clearly in the (one) picture, one panel is edged in the grape!
   
   Sixthly, there is no instruction for closing the bottom of the side pocket! Now granted, you most likely could figure it out, but she goes into great detail as to the edging (for example every corner turn is slowly spelled out to go along the edge and single crochet 3 times in every corner...four times! I think we got it the first time Nicki!!) Besides the fact is that if you got that far, I'm sure you have done that before and its almost automatic! Most crocheters have made simple dishcloths where this is (in my experience) the way EVERY SINGLE one is done!
   
   Lastly, the fact that except for the slightly goofy ear-flap hat and this handbag, the rest of the apparel patterns are really freaky looking, from the wedding dress with huge floppy beaded yarn blobs or the giant messy neck piece or the completely bizarre opera gloves (who really would wear these anywhere but a costume party) are just WEIRD. And don't tell me they could easily be worn by Paris Hilton or some other Hollywood skank, they wouldn't TOUCH them unless they wanted to make the worst dressed list(might finally bump Bjork and her swan dress off the list!)
   
   I won't even bore you with the myriad of typos and just plain confusedness of the flower patterns. And I really can say that about ALL of her books and patterns.
   
   Please Nicky, fire your testers and editors, call me! I am completely zealous when it comes to succinct and accessible instructions, and I bet you a buck that I would be cheaper than the ones you used for this book.
   
   I absolutely love having this book for inspiration. Nicky gets an A+ for inspiration and a C- for execution. So only spend your money if you have the time and patience to sit and play with the patterns. And always double the yarn requirements
   
   If you aren't extremely comfortable with crochet, remember that you might hit some speedbumps and need a little help.



2. Gave the book to my wife:
   
   "E-Z written instructions, plus diagrams & absolutely beautiful-color photographs."



3. 
   This book is very elementary. If you can make a chain then you don't need this book. I would not recommend it.



4. Caveat: if you are new to flower making and crochet's world of endless possibilities, this may
   open something for you. If you are experienced, a collector, and have already made flowers... skip this. Get her Knitted Flowers instead and try to do them in crochet. I'm sorry I didn't heed the warnings.... it is IRKSOME that there is more variety and invention in her knitted flowers than in her crochet book. There are few projects, only two are slightly compelling, and most flowers are iterations of others. The images are, globby, not exciting. I made one flower in the type of fiber and hook suggested and it was HUGE... an outsized bell that hangs on my porch as an adornment...nothing that one could wear. Most of these do tend toward the large (G,H) vs thread, which is okay with me.... it just lacks a certain grace, delicacy, inventiveness and variety that Ms Epstein bestows on her knitted creations.



5. I trusted the positive reviews on this book. I shouldn't have. Nicky Epstein has crappy instructions, so that even an expert crocheter like me was frustrated.
   Don't buy this book!

5 comments about Monotype: Mediums and Methods for Painterly Printmaking.

1. There seems to be very limited information available on the technique of monotype. This book fills that void by demonstrating the incredible variety of effects possible using the monotype method. There are no projects, per se, rather it teaches techniques that help you create your own masterpieces. Many pieces of example artwork are found throughout the book.

   A monotype is a one-of-a-kind print made by transferring a painted image to paper. The book starts out with an introduction to materials including plates, mediums, solvents, panting tools and paper as well as hand and press transfer equipment. It also covers studio safety and finding workshop facilities.

   Techniques are next including working into a light or dark field and both hand and press transfer.
   These include step-by-step instructions accompanied by demonstration photos. Working in specific mediums including watercolor, acrylics, water-soluble writing instruments, monoprint paints (Createx), oil paints, water-based oils and alkyds follows. A section discussing special oil-based printing inks for lithography, etching, printing and serigraphy is also here. There is even a chapter on special techniques including using masks & stencils, embossing and creating collages.

   The final chapter gives an overview of monoprints, which combine monotype with other print making processes, and mixed-media monotypes. This includes intaglio, drypoint and engraving, as well as linocut and collagraphic monoprints.

   There is a nice list of suppliers as well as interesting biographical notes on the artists featured in the back. This is a great book that displays the great diversity in mediums and results available with monotype.




2. I agree with the previous reviews - if you're creating monoprints, and particularly if you're looking for non-toxic methods, this is a great book. It's full color with many inspiring illustrations, and full of useful, practical information written in a friendly, down-to-earth manner.
   
   Re. recommended paints: I recently had the pleasure of taking a monoprinting class with Julia Ayres and her daughter Gail Ayres (at the Art Methods & Materials Show in Pasadena, CA, Oct 2004). The Ayres now recommend using the new Akua-Kolor waterbased inks by Rostow & Jung (www.waterbasedinks.com) which I assume were not invented at the time this book was originally printed. The advantage is that these inks are non-toxic, clean up easily, and they stay moist for days. You then print to DRY printmaking paper, and the inks dry instantly once they hit the paper. Now you don't have to worry about the inks drying on the plate, or handling fragile, wet paper. (I shoved my Createx paints in a bottom drawer after the workshop!)
   
   (If you get the opportunity, take a class with the Ayres if you're just getting started, as there's nothing quite like seeing the process in action and the book will make even more sense! They also teach using the PinPress Roller for making monoprints by hand; very useful if you don't have access to an expensive printing press.)



3. I'm so glad I bought this book. It is one of those I take down regularly. The author thoroughly understands monotype in many mediums. A previous reviewer mentioned how well the toxicity issue was dealt with. Lots of good color illustration.



4. This book answered many questions that other artists and I were asking regarding monotype. It gives you permission to proceed in any direction, using any materials you choose.



5. This book gives a thorough overview of Monotype printing. It starts out with materials needed, then goes on to talk about hand transfers, press transfers and doing monotypes in acrylic, watercolor, oil and printmaking inks. It covers mixed media and stencils, masks, etc. It has much practical/useful information in each section on both techniques and materials. There are examples of each type of work covered, athough I would have liked to see a larger "gallery" of work by different artist. A very good book if you are interested in monotypes.

5 comments about Denyse Schmidt Quilts: 30 Colorful Quilt and Patchwork Projects.

1. This book has inspired me to return to my first craft medium--FABRIC!
   Denyse's approach to the sewing craft is fresh, intelligent, and tasteful.
   I highly recommend this book to anyone who's looking for more modern ways to express herself with fabric.



2. This is one of my favorite quilting books, if not the favorite, and my original copy was lost in a recent move. I replaced it because I realized I didn't want to live without it! The designs are inspiring and the directions are easy to follow. I am relatively new to quilting and really enjoy creating fresh, modern designs. Books like these are so important to keeping crafts alive as they affirm a new aesthetic for younger crafters.



3. Love the book and projects but it cost me $8 to enlarge one pattern at Kinkos...next time I will try to fit 2 or 3 more on the same copy



4. I first saw this book in a bookstore on my lunch break. I am an avid crafter and love to sew. I had recently decided to make quits for all of my nieces and my nephew, I have 5 of them, for Christmas. Problem was, I had never actually made a quit before. This book is so informative, I could hardly believe how much I learned. I am so glad I got this book' it is going to get me to through the summer all the way to Christmas and beyond!



5. I love this book. I have loved Denyse Schmidt's designs ever since she was profiled in Martha Stewart Living a few years ago. I couldn't resist buying her book. Her contemporary update of traditional patterns is fun and eye-pleasing. Many of the projects are quick, and I have already made the stuffed cat and the apron and oven mitt. The directions were easy to follow and the final products wonderful. In this world of mass produced items, aren't sewers and quilters lucky that they can create something of beauty, something original that they can give to others or keep to enjoy themselves?

5 comments about Bead Romantique: Elegant Beadweaving Designs.

1. As a designer I judge a book by two criteria. First, does it inspire me to think of my own jewelry designs in a new way? Secondly, does it offer enough new techniques to help me further my knowledge and spur me on to add some new tricks to my design repertoire. Lisa's book offers both.
   
   You may be new to the world of beading, nary a thread and bead to hand or you might know every beading stitch under the sun. I believe Bead Romantique has something for every level. The designs range from basic stringing and wire wrapping to complicated right-angle weave.
   
   If you are new to beading, don't fear. There are earring projects to start out with that will help you with the basics. You can build up your skills as you work through the projects in this book. I love that many of the beading projects are small components that repeat and build together to create larger and more complex designs. The mix of chain and brass filigree add depth to the construction of some of the simpler beaded pieces, which is oh so clever!
   
   I'd also recommend this book to someone who is an advanced beader. I could see this adding some creative sparks to those who have seen it all in the world of seed beads. I see quite a few projects that call for size 15 seed beads. (Those are the tiny ones smaller than regular seed beads!) In the beginning of the book Lisa says she wanted to create projects for the intermediate to advanced beaders who are looking for new inspiration.
   
   Another bonus is the historic inspiration behind the jewelry, from the Renaissance period to Art Deco, along with a generous sprinkling of Victorian and Art Nouveau styles, Lisa covers 400 years of art history with style and grace!



2. I usually like to browse jewelry books at the store before purchasing them, but I couldn't find this one at Barnes and Noble, so I decided to take a chance on it. I'm definitely not disappointed!!! The designs run the gamut from a beaded rivoli Y necklace to a more contemporary lariat to a gorgeous pearl and crystal cuff based around a diamond motif. I would agree with other reviewers that this probably isn't the best book for beginners. I enjoy that the designs incorporate basic wirework, chain, filigree, and wire mesh, in addition to the typical beading. The designs also utilize a variety of stitches (right-angle weave, Ndebele, circular peyote, and so forth), making it a great way to expand your beading skills.



3. The theme of the book is romantic, almost Victorian looking pieces. Most of the supplies called for are really easy to find in local bead stores, and the rest can be found searching online.
   The beginning of the book has some basic information about the supplies used, including what the author likes and dislikes about some threads and needles, and what the best application is for them.
   Then you get into the rest of the book, the projects. They are stunning. They range from very easy and elegant chain and wirework projects, simple beadwoven projects with some lovely surface embellishment, and then some incredibly dramatic looking bead woven pieces. The color photographs are inspiring and the instructions and diagrams are very well written. Many of the projects are meant for the intermediate beader.
   Don't be daunted though, the back of the book has stitch diagrams, and the text of each project is well written step by step.
   My favorite thing about the projects is that a few of them combine techniques. Chain as an accent on a beadwoven necklace for example. Some of her designs are completely unexpected pairings of techniques and beads that turn out looking amazing.
   Like I said, most supplies can be found easily at a good local bead store, and some projects are entirely made of easily found supplies, which is always nice in a book like this. The V Scallop necklace for example, you may have all the supplies you need on hand, or be inspired by it to make something similar with the supplies you do have on hand.
   My personal favorite project in the whole book is the intricate motif constructed Victorian Diamond Cuff. It looks difficult, but it's actually made of diamond shaped motifs that look easy enough one at a time.
   If you're an intermediate beader looking for inspiration and ideas, or a beginning beader looking for a challenge, I recommend this book.



4. I am as addicted to books as I am to beading! Two of my favorite books are by Carol Wilcox Wells and though I have purchased many books since hers have been published, this is the first I would rank as highly as I rank hers. It is filled with inspiring, beautiful, and most importantly, ORIGINAL designs. It is a book that is a wonderful addition to an intermediate to advanced beader's library. The projects are fun to create and the directions are clear and easy to follow. I liked this book so much I bought 3 more to "gift" my beading friends with!!



5. I would recommend this book to all beaders, if only for the eye candy. The jewelry is amazing and the photography is fantastic. I haven't made anything from the patterns as yet, but they look to be very well written and sensible.

5 comments about Creating Wire and Beaded Jewelry.

1. I am a complete beginner and found this book very helpful. The instructions are easy to follow, the pictures vivid and beautiful, and the finished jewelry is lovely. There are lots of different projects to make for every level. I highly recommend this book.



2. I have purchased other books by Linda Jones and will continue to do so! Beautiful projects, quality directions, beautiful photos.....it has it all. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to make wire jewelry!Buy it....you won't be sorry!



3. Even with my several years of experience wrapping wire I found the instructions incomplete and confusing. Definitely not a book for a novice but possibly a good reference book. Beautifully illustrated though. I got some great ideas for displaying my jewelry.



4. This book presents all the basics to making wire jewelry. It will let you know which supplies are most important, teaches you how to make basic shapes and gives some projects. What is most important though is that it gives one the tools to design one's own jewlery and it does so with such clarity and precision. After reading this book, I made and sold my first earring/necklace set from silver and green flourite. I keep this book by my side when I create wire work at night to sell at my on-line boutique. I give 10% of my profits to charity...
   
   In short -- buy this you will not regret it!



5. For a beginner, like myself; this was helpful, instructive and gave inspiration and ideas for me to create. I will always use this book for reference, but I am ready to move on to other projects. I thought it was worth the purchase.

5 comments about Foxfire 5 (Foxfire).

1. One of our nation's treasures is being lost one person at a time, and because of Eliot Wigginton, at least some of the treasure is being documented. The people of Appalachia have been marginalized and treated as backwoods hicks and hillbillies, only because of their poverty. That is what makes the richness of their culture all the more amazing. These people live on what an average family throws away every day. They're frugal, resourceful, and highly intelligent. This book only serves to prove it.

   If you haven't spent time with hill people, your live is incomplete.




2. If you enjoy the Appalachian culture, you'll love the FOXFIRE books. Volume No. 5 covers bear hunting, blacksmithing and gun making. If you've never read these books, it may be difficult, since the text is written in the vernacular of the mountain folk, but this adds to the charm and "character" of the books. The bear hunting stories wer entertaining, but I really enjoyed reading about Hacker Martin and Hershall House. If you want to know how life really was in the Smokey Mountains, read this book.



3. There are some good pictures of gun smiths in this book, performing various techniques. Also a pretty good history of gun smiths, if that sort of thing interests you. The guns they show are flint lock.
   
   The black smithing, horse shoeing and iron making are pretty slim. How to make a horse shoe, cow bell, and stove poker are about it. They discuss how they rebuilt the iron furnace, but not how to use it.
   
   I would recommend this book only to black powder gunsmiths, or those interested in rifle history.



4. The information contained within Foxfire 5 has come in handy for Duane many a times for learning how to do stuff. Most of the old methods are now lost to the current generation of Americans. It is a good reference for someone who wants to learn hands-on skills, such as blacksmithing and other independent living skills.



5. As one reviewer has pointed out, there are more words in this one, and less pictures than previous works. This work, Volume V, is like the others. A wonderful history of how it was. In this day and age of having most needs meet and something for everyone on the Wal-mart shelf, we tend to forget just what it was like in our not too distant past. These books, the Foxfire books, brings to light skills, attitudes and a way of life that is all but forgotten. This is a good thing. When a people lose their history, they lose part of their soul. As the title of this work states, from blacksmithing to rain making,this work addresses many of the old forgotten skills and there is so much more. The editors have done a wonderful job. They have made a very honest effort to replicate the dialect of those places and times and I feel that this is a big part of the charm of these books. I am old enough to have known many of the kinds of folks featured in these books, being only one generation past them, and have a great appreciation for what and how they did all the little things we take so for granted now. I might also suggest that you actually try some of the things mentioned in these volumes. It will give you even more of an appreciation for what they did, and hey, who knows, the skill you develope just might come in handy one of these days! Recommend this and the other Foxfire books highly.

5 comments about Stitched Collage: Creative Effects on Paper and Fabric.

1. I am, first of all, stunned at the vitriolic attitudes of some of the reviewers. I am relativly new to collage and fabric, but have been a painter and sculptor for many years. All of her books have a place in my library and have always been the first "go to" references for me. Having not embroidered for a while, her simple, approaches were instant reminders for me. She is always so clear and exciting at the same time and gets me going for it without fear. She is so resoursful with her tools and has expanded my imagination and helped me overcome my fear of the sewing machine! Kudos to a talented spirit with a joyfull attitude!!!! Just listen to your very special self.



2. What a disappointment!!!!... nothing really new or innovative. I am avid Sherrill fan and have all her books but I will think twice before just running off to buy her next book. I really felt this was a great waste of my money.



3. This is the first of Sherrill's books that has left me wanting more. What's there is great there just isn't enough... I have 3 of her books now and this is the first one to disappoint me.



4. Stitched Collage is a beautifully written and illustrated book. It contains a great deal of information and has been a great resource for me. I own all of Ms. Kahn's books and refer to them frequently. Her techniques have enhanced my collages. I hope she publishes more soon.



5. I have purchased Sherrill Kahn's books previously and been very well satisfied with them and thus, thought this one would be a good addition. I'm not even sure new photographs were made for this book. It is a rehash of her other work. As though she said, "Lets just cut things that have to do with sewing out of the other books and call it new." A major disappointment! Unfortunately, I did not read the other reviews before ordering. Only if you've never seen work by Sherrill Kahn should you order this book! I will give mine away or send it back!

5 comments about The Amazing Page: 650 Scrapbook Page Ideas, Tips and Techniques (Memory Makers).

1. I found this to be a great springboard for scrapbooking ideas. I borrowed this book from the library and just had to have it. It's packed with pages on a huge variety of topics by some of Memory Makers best scrappers. If you're looking for fresh scrapbooking ideas such as you'd get from magazines, you'll like this book. I'm a die hard scrapbooker and have been for several years and I really enjoyed this book.



2. Wonderful ideas to start you off to scrapbooking! Scrapbooking is a wonderful way to say I love you to your family and friends and this book gives you plenty of inspiring ideas.



3. Lots of great ideas for scrapbooks. Comes as a very handy tool when you need a little inspiration for your layouts.



4. This is a fantastic book for the scrapper that likes to visualize what they want a page to look like. I took some new idea's and layouts from this book that are really cool!



5. This is definitely eye candy, loads of lovely colors and the book is laid out beautifully. But when I really looked at the pages and layouts, I found a great deal of repetition, and nothing really new. I walked away and picked it up again. Nope. It did not end up being one of the idea books I return to time and again unfortunately. But it is eye candy. The DVD rom is sort of fluff as the pages are not as good as what's in the book.

No comments about Obama Paper Dolls (Collectible Campaign Edition).

2 comments about A Handbook of Arts and Crafts.

1. We used this book as a textbook for my Elementary Education Art Methods & Materials class. It is jam-packed with projects to do with children. Highly recommended.



2. This book is a great resource for projects in art for children. You could say that I was the test subject for a lot of what's in this book. Willard was my grandfather. This book is a treasure that every elementary school teacher should have. My grandfather would take me to the university to work on projects and then put them in the book. What fun that was. Share this book with your children as my grandfather enjoyed it with his son and grandson.