5 comments about Knitting in Plain English, Updated Edition.

1. What a great book. I have learned so much about knitting from reading this book. My knits have improved 100-fold, and I look forward to many projects that will not seem as daunting now that I have read this book. I encourage the working of the practice pieces in the back of the book. The baby sweater and bonnet. They are great learning tools for newbies, or great methods of refining skills for intermediates like me. I've learned so much. Thanks for a great book, funny, warm and easy to read. Nicci in NYC.



2. This is a no-nonsense, wonderful book on knitting basics. Many of my knitting friends have balked at the concept of anyone being able to learn to knit without being shown by another human being, in person, exactly what to do, but it is absolutely true that I taught myself to knit, using *this* book. It is an enjoyable, chatty read and her instructions are clear and well written. She doesn't just tell you WHAT you are supposed to be doing, but more often than not, she is giving you the WHY as well. I highly recommend it!



3. Remember the old adage "give a man a fish, and he eats for a day, teach him to fish and he eats for a lifetime"? That's what this book is to knitting.
   
   While many of the current glut of beginning knitting books will teach you to cast on, knit, and purl (and possibly to make an already outdated scarf out of an already discontinued eyelash yarn), Ms. Righetti's book teaches you to think critically and how to knit what YOU have set out to knit.
   
   I own many, many knitting books. This is one I refer back to as I grow within the craft. The patterns provided might not be very stylish, but I learned excellent skills to take to other projects I adore.
   
   This book is a wonderful contribution. I was glad to see that so many here felt the same way about it. I'd love to hear more from Maggie. I wonder if she has any idea how many knitters she has influenced?



4. I recently purchased this book and love it! Righetti gives you a no-nonsense tutorial on all the basics of knitting. This book is great for both beginner and seasoned knitters. The one thing I would have liked to see differently is better illustrations of the stitches. Considering this book was originally published several years ago, I can deal with the illustrations. I highly recommend this book! Happy Knitting!



5. Generally helpful, in a research sort of way, but despite her protests to the contrary Ms. Rigetti does have a definate! point of view vis-a-vis techniques.

5 comments about Candlemaking for Fun & Profit (For Fun & Profit).

1. This book was extremly helpful. It tells you how to make candles along with suggestions on how to make a business out of it. It tells you the step by step procedure for making everyday candles and tells you how to make some of the more exotic one. A+



2. This book explains so much. Just what I will need to get my candle business off the ground! I highly recommend this book!



3. This book is vague at best. There is not alot of specific info on making candles or running a business. This is an OK book if you find it used and cheap, but your money is better spent on a different book if you want specific technical info on how to make candles.



4. This book has helped me in the little things I didn't know about candle making,,very easy to understand and well written.
   thanks! good choice!



5. This book has everything needed for those who are just getting into candles. Witch are:
   
   A great list of candle suppliers(wax,wicks,jars,ect.)
   
   Trouble shooting
   
   Projects
   
   Business how-to
   
   Fragance information
   
   Color dyes information
   
   Wicking help and tips
   
   Plus multiple tips on everything

5 comments about Knitting Lingerie Style: More Than 30 Basic and Lingerie-Inspired Designs.

1. I loved this book. The designs, along with two other books (Fitted Knits and Romantic Knits) inspired me to give knitting another try after a 12 year break. Almost all lingerie you buy is knit already. It is machine knit fabric. To revisit the idea of knitting undergarments for beauty rather than warmth is genius. I have been able to find all supplies and yarns locally or online. Some patterns include plus-sized sizing. However the bra cups do only go to a D. I am a G. However, I am so used to having to figure out how to alter sewing patterns to fit, I was not too intimidated by doing it with knitting. You just need to check your guage, honestly measure, and do the math. For any one who says why bother, why bother making anything yourself? It is for love of fit and for love of the art.



2. 
   This book is better and contains more than you could even imagine! As far as sexy knits - this is by far the best book out there. I know that knitting underwear might not be every ones cup of tea, but that book is filled with much much much more than just that. Stockings, gloves, little sexy tops. I found the patterns to be well described, easy to follow and for knitters of every level. If you are looking for a timeless sexy knit book ... this would be it!



3. The patterns were very pretty, but I needed more room in the bust area.
   
   I know I could have just change/add the bust darts on some of the patterns.
   
   It just didn't suit my needs.



4. I love knitting and I love making lingery. Two of my favorite things in one book. Both the beginning and the advanced knitter will find projects in this book. I am a public knitter and I am not sure how I would feel about knitting a thong or bra in one of our administrative meetings. Yes, I do knit in meetings or my red personality will take the meeting over in order to get back to the real work. But back to the book, it has great project and many of them will stand the test of time.



5. I love this book! I bought it on a whim, and I'm so very glad I did! The layout and photography are lovely, and the hardback construction of the book is remarkably nice for the price. Best of all, it is filled with wonderful patterns -- patterns that are sexy in a way that makes me feel beautiful and tasteful. I already have most of the book pegged for future projects. I heartily look forward to a fun and intimate journey through it with needles and yarn.
   
   P.S. My husband loves this book too. He's also pegged quite a few projects for me. :)

5 comments about Glass Bead Workshop: Building Skills, Exploring Techniques, Finding Inspiration.

1. I loved this book! The illustrations were fantastic and the writing was clear and concise. It was like listening to an old friend describe how to make beads. Even though they are remarkably intricate, I left the book feeling that I could make them given the tools.
   
   Thank you, Jeri, for a wonderful educational experience. I hope to be able to take a class with you in the near future!



2. A well written book with loads of beautiful helpful pictures.
   Jeri teaches a little bit of everything. A perfect book for
   someone wanting to jumpstart their imagination...



3. This is a great book because the chapters are organized by projects that are written clearly and concisely. It is aimed at intermediate glass bead makers, but would work for beginners almost as well. The ten new projects enable the bead maker to move to the next level. It was easy to understand and succeed with the projects presented. I'm tickled to be so successful without having to go to another class. I enjoyed the final chapter that exhibits "near misses" to the reader. This helped me to realize that even the best are not always successful in their attempts to create. I will persevere in adversity because of this chapter.



4. Welcome to my studio...so begins the first line of Jeri Warfhatig's new book entitled, Glass Bead Workshop. I've met Jeri and talked to her a few times at bead shows. She's a friendly supportive colleague and has written a beautiful and informative book on glass beadmaking.
   
   The table of contents includes: Welcome to my studio; The Basics; Session one - Falling Leaves Bead; Session two - Beach Bead; Session Three - Geode Bead; Session Four - Off Mandrel Galaxy Pendant; Session Five - Blown Hollow Bead; Session Six - Twistie Pendant; Session Seven - Hollow Vessel Bead; Session Eight - Wreath Bead; Session Nine - Rune Bead; Session Ten - Rose Bead; Appendix A - Sandblasting; Appendix B - Gridning and Polishing; Appendix C - Near Misses.
   
   Jeri explains all of the "basics" such as studio set up, torches, safety, ventilation, etc. Hopefully, there's nothing new here for an intermediate beadmaker but if the beginner picks up the book, it's all important information. Once the studio set up and safety is discussed, it's on to the projects or sessions.
   
   I really like the set up of the sessions. The header,"What Will This Session Teach?" begins each one and gives you a quick overview of the bead you'll be making. For the experienced beadmaker, it allows you to skim and look for particular techniques. The header is followed by a section listing tools, material and any special tools or materials used. Good photos of the tools, materials and finished bead.
   
   Throughout the book, there are good, clear, close up photos of the techniques and steps. I feel as though I'm standing next to Jeri as she teaches a class. The section on making the bead is followed by "Further Explorations" where variations on the technique is described with a photo or two. Each session ends with a "Gallery" comprised of various glass art beads made with the same technique.
   
   As an experienced beadmaker I'm sometimes jaded wondering what a new book will have to offer me. The tips and further exploration were worth the price of the book alone. The photographs are lovely and enhance the instructions.
   
   Jeri has written a classic for the modern intermediate beadmaker. A lovely book from a fabulous beadmaker!



5. I really like this book! I have been making beads for over 12 years and have been looking for a book that has information for the intermediate to advanced beadmaker. This book fills the bill!! Lots of great information, excellent photos, good descriptions. The book describes a number of techniques that I have been curious about (like sandblasting!).
   I wish there had been more detail on a couple of things, but overall, I would recommend this book to other intermediate beadmakers.
   Thank you, Jeri, for putting this together! I love the book!

5 comments about Collage Discovery Workshop - Beyond the Unexpected: New Techniques Using Color, Personal Imagery and Creative Surfaces.

1. This book is a great compliment to the Collage Discovery Workshop. It has the same beautiful glossy pages and the techniques are simple to learn and produce amazing results. Your creative ideas will flow and I suggest keeping paper close to write down your own original ideas while you read through this book.
   
   Another great gift idea!



2. I LOVE this book. It really gets my creative juices flowing when I look at it. Full color photos and actual artist examples enhance this step by step book of cool ideas!



3. This is a great book! It contains great directions on making some unique backgrounds for your collage. It also provides a great list of items needed for making magnificent artwork. I have used many of the techniques and have produced some of my best work. If you are new to collage making, this book is a must.



4. Wow- I purchased this because I am just beginning with collage and she has got some great ideas for different back grounds, and techniques. Her style is unique and whimsical! A great resource book!



5. this second book totally switches gears from her first book in a good and different way. if you are looking for a change this book is for you! her first book had lots of dark and grungy looks while this one goes to bright and whimsical! i would consider myself on the more seasoned side of collage and sometimes i get sooo bogged down in details that i need to step back a couple steps and see the simpler side again to clear my head. this book helps me get back to that blissful middle ground. great techniques to be had and a refreshing look at a softer simpler side of collage. great job claudine!

3 comments about Great Big Book of Children's Games.

1. I do not own this book, but I put it on my "wish list". I currently have it checked-out from my local library for the second time. What a wonderful book for such a great price! I plan to use it for birthday party activities, kids church activities, etc. This book is well worth the price!



2. The Great Big Book of Children's Games is full of fun games of all sorts: Ball Games, Water Games, Chase Games, Card Games, and so on. Many of the games are well-known childhood classics, but many of them are either foreign or totally new.
   
   The book offers lots of ways to play versions of popular games with a make-your-own version. Naturally, it doesn't tell you explicitly, "Don't buy game X, you can make your own!", but it does give great instructions on how to make paper playing boards for games like Shut the Box, Beetle (like a drawing version of Cootie), and also how to get the most out of a game like Checkers.
   
   As far as outside games, it can't be beat, there are dozens of variations on classics like hopscotch, hide-and-seek, and that eternal favorite: tag!
   
   This book is a great gift idea for Moms, Teachers, Daycare Providers, and it's a great one to leave around for the teenaged babysitter if you're going out and you don't want the kids to spend the evening in front of the TV. Wonderful!



3. This is such a great book! I was looking for some activities to keep the kids from being bored. What a wonderful surprise! This book was way more than I expected. There are tons of activities--card games, outdoor games, pen and paper games, travel games, table top games, blacktop games, and much more. As we looked through the book I remembered some of these from my own childhood, but I probably wouldn't have recalled them without this book to prompt the memories. I was very pleased and the kids love it. There are so many games that they will not be bored for a long time.

5 comments about Fabulous Origami Boxes.

1. Excellent and practical designs. The octagonal box is especially easy to fold and looks great. My one and only minor niggle is that I wish this book had a spiral binding so that I wouldn't have to use a paperweight to hold the pages open as I folded them.



2. Tomoko Fuse is fantastic! I would recommend almost all of her books. This book is no exception. As a lover of origami, and practical things, I can't go past Tomoko Fuse's box books.
   
   I was a beginner folder when I first bought her box books and have never had a problem following her directions. I have also taught the folding or some of her boxes to a group of 10-15 year olds. Although they needed a bit of help here and there, they were capable of folding the boxes. (Some, of course were better than others at understanding the diagrams, but most caught on eventually).
   
   The boxes have endless uses, paperclips at work, shortbread in them at Christmas time for gifts, to hold Easter eggs at Easter.
   
   As the cover illustrates, this book has more boxes with raised details (such as the crane, flowers etc) than Tomoko Fuse's "Origami Boxes". Both books are fabulous though.



3. The author's name alone is what drew me to this book. Tomoko Fuse has come up with so many different variations of origami boxes that it absolutely amazes me! Not only does she design the actual box, but the adornments she designs that are integrated into the box tops are very creative. If you only build one box from this book, build the "Lamp Shaped Bowl w/Knobbed Lid". It is ornate, easy to make, has a unique shape, and is actually very sturdy. If you like origami boxes, BUY THIS BOOK!



4. The Book is a fairly good introduction into creative boxes but I felt the book was a bit short and had not many different box variations



5. I knew this origami boxes from tomoko's fuse site. The schemes were compiled in a very useful and great book - this one!
   It's worth buying :)

5 comments about Origami Jewelry: More Than 40 Exquisite Designs to Fold and Wear.

1. Origami Jewelry: More Than 40 Exquisite Designs to Fold and Wear Very nice presentation. Instructions and diagrams are fairly easy to understand. The pictures of the finished fold are nicely shown. I've been doing origami for 30 yrs and never thought of making jewelry. You always learn new things.



2. I am relatively new to Origami so I found this book a welcome addition to the library, it covers the obligatory choosing of papers, tools to use and importantly for newbies a good solid instructional section on the "basic folds". The jewellery created was quiet nice, a little kitsch for my personal taste, but easily accomplished with a bit of practice.
   
   The big thing for me though came with Metal Clay "paper", I am primarily a jewellery artist and use Metal clay a lot, I love the product of silver sheet clay or paper clay as some people call it as I can fold this like paper in origami styles and then fire it to produce minature fine silver jewellery. Good ideas in the book for me to transfer to silver replicas.
   
   The diagrams were clear, easy to understand and photographed well. Thank you Ayako for a good book.



3. As someone who is a novice I found this book relatively easy to follow. I have been doing origami for a long time, but I am not consistent with it. It is something I love and I know basics, but not something I am constantly working to excel at, even though I wish I had the time to. With a stressful job I needed an outlet and so have taken origami up again to relax and have a creative outlet. I saw this book and thought, wow how cool. I really want to try this. I am more than happy with my impulse purchase. The pictures are clear and concise. She gives you all the basic folds in the front so you don't have to go looking in other materials for them. The author also allows your creative juices to flow. She shows many different project pictures with the same origami shape. This allowed me to take her projects one step further and really make them my own. I have never made jewelry before (other than macaroni necklaces in kindergarten) and she details all the tools and materials you need. Really, if this peeks your interest, the take the plunge and buy it. You won't be disappointed.



4. I ordered this book without high hopes and was pleasantly surprised. Finally, an origami jewelry book that goes through the process step by step with clear photos as a guide. All the questions I had regarding origami jewelry making were answered. In the past, much of my paper jewelry making was based on guesswork.



5. What a creative and practical book! I love origami and have incorporated it into my card making, gift wrapping, decorating, and table setting for years. However, I had never made jewelry with it. The techniques in the book have opened a whole new area of possiblilites for me.

1 comments about 501 Rotary-Cut Quilt Blocks (That Patchwork Place) (That Patchwork Place).

1. This is actually all three of Judy Hopkins previous books combined for the cost of only one!!! (Around the Block, Around the Block Again, & Once More Around the Block) This is NOT a how to book. You need to KNOW how to SEW and have basic quilting background. These patterns are meant to be ROTARY cut! Here you will find a color example of the block and then you will have a diagram that shows the basic construction in MINIMAL detail but the most excellent part is that you are given VARIOUS size blocks. You need 6" blocks fine, 12" blocks no problem. There is a HUGE reason why the original books are all sold out and selling for greater than the cover, it is because the patterns are solid. You need this book, use it for centers, swaps, borders, and you won't be disappointed!

5 comments about Altered Books Workshop.

1. This book is filled with inspirational ideas and all the techniques needed to complete projects. Excellent for someone new to the craft.



2. I'd been wanting to purchase this book for awhile before finally buying it - and I'm so glad I did! This is a fabulous book to add to any artist's collection - whether you are into altered books or your focus lies in creating different mixed media/altered art projects. The author (herself a well-known altered book artist) takes the reader from very basic ideas and explanations, to much more advanced information. She accomplishes this in such a way that the reader - independent of skill level - never feels talked down to, or is left trying to figure out what she's talking about. The examples in the book are glorious eye candy, and it's easy to forget you're looking at the flat page of a book - her texture seems to jump off the page. This is a great reference tool to use during those times your Muse has taken a vacation, or you're looking to try a process you don't normally incorporate into your work. I really appreciate the way the book is laid out - the photography is scrumptious and the writing is concise.
   
   Altered Books Workshop is a book that will stay on the front section of my bookcase, where I keep my favorite "go to" books. This book is definitely money well spent!



3. For under five dollars, this book is a great investment for beginners or even those who are just intrigued by altered books. As the author explains, her focus is not to teach her specific style, but rather, some techniques for altering books. For example, she discusses different uses for various glues, how to fold and cut pages, and how to insert shadowboxes. The step-by-step photos and tips are very helpful. For more of an eye-candy, awe-inspiring book, try Terry Taylor's Altered Art. For detailed how-to's and encouragement, Bev Brazelton's book is valuable introduction.



4. I really like this book a lot! It covers everything for the beginner: what is an altered book, choosing a book, supplies and tools, developing a theme, and then there are some great step by step photos of the whole process of starting the book and doing a double spread. Then is covers 18 different techniques. Some of the basic ones are collaging, stitching, cutting doors, windows, adding tags, folding pages, and adding inserts, all with wonderful examples and photos. Next, are intermediate techniques: cutting shadowboxes, glazing and adding texture, and working with your book cover. Lastly, there are the techniques that Bev calls "creative". They are designing with words, adding a drawer, hanging embellishments, adding fibers and beads, transferring images, and adding pop-ups. All of these subjects in one book is wonderful. That is why I highly recommend this book for a beginner.



5. Altered Books Workshop by Bev Brazelton is a wonderful collage of techniques and ideas that can be used for altering books. The book is a beautiful collection of work, with each page looking like a work of art. It is an easy book to read that is lots of fun to look at. The techniques are explained in simple format with photos to lead you through each step.
   
   The basic techniques section covers collaging, stitching, cutting doors, cutting windows, adding tags, folding pages, and adding inserts. Rubber stamping on tags is one of the many wonderful samples used in this section. These are so much fun and add so much character to the page! Pages are filled with variations and tips, and the art work on each page deserves the time to be studied.
   
   The intermediate techniques include cutting shadowboxes, glazing, adding texture, collaging covers, and cutting covers. Cutting shadowboxes and covers was fascinating to learn. The easy to follow directions with photos makes the procedure sound easy enough for anyone to succeed doing, but the final results look like an experienced artist was involved. Brazelton suggests gluing your pages together before you begin cutting out the shadowbox. When the glue dries, you use a craft knife and change blades often to achieve the cut out that you are looking for. She recommends that you cut the whole area and not worry about how clean your edges are until you are done. Then you can go back and clean up the pages. You can then fill your cut out area with little trinkets to create 3-D collaged art.
   
   This book achieved its goal. Not only did I enjoy reading and looking over each page, but it made me want to alter a book immediately.