5 comments about Real Simple Solutions: Tricks, Wisdom and Easy Ideas to Simplify Everyday.

1. Being a 28yr. old woman, who is not very domestic, I love the book and learned a lot. I would describe the book as a personal/household, "how-to" book. The book features checklists for grocery, kitchenwares, chores, home and auto maintenance and cleaning. It tells the best way to remove stains from everywhere, to do laundry, to decorate, to paint. And they give some quick/easy recipes. However, I don't think experienced moms and dads would be that impressed with most of the info!



2. Love this book! If you're in to modern storage solutions or want the best of the best products... this is your book! Great coffee table book.



3. Bought it for my sis. She loves it. Plenty of practical ideas to make everyday run a little smoother.



4. The Real Simple book, like the magazine, includes many helpful tips on varied domestic issues. Given that it's a book, I wish more of the tips were more helpful, or more new, or more generally applicable. Some of these tips, I think, are common knowledge. Some only apply to very few people. Still, there's enough in here to make the book a pretty good resource for solving a lot of pesky little problems.



5. what a wonderful book! Full of great, unique ideas, which work brilliantly and beautifully presented. I have used many of the suggestions and every single one has been a success. Every home should have a copy. An excellent gift for newly weds or for house-warming. Highly recommended!

5 comments about Building a Deck (Build Like A Pro).

1. I am a firm believer in the KISS method of doing things. (Keep It Simple Stupid") Every step is covered in this book so that anyone can learn from it. The "Build Like A Pro" series of books are all laid out like this one. The "Expert Tips" are great. They show you short cuts to help you do the jobs right, but in less time. This is stuff you only learn by doing the job everyday. They are trade secrets.



2. My wife and I successfully built a deck using this book 2 years ago. Planned, submitted plans to village got building permit and final inspection. It felt good to accomplish such a large task with only 2 people who are not carpenters and haven't built a deck before. The deck is around 300 sq. ft. so it is not small. The book has all the information you need to build a solid deck. It also includes information on problems you could run into and ideas for customizing the deck. We are now building a smaller 100 sq. ft. deck for the front of our house. Believe me, we could not have done this without this great book.



3. This is a good book for beginners. Wish there was a little more variety of design style. Haven't built my deck yet, but either way if you follow this books suggestions I imagine it will be a very good deck.



4. Building a Deck (Build Like A Pro)
   
   My construction experience includes home additions, house remodeling/renovation, and many indoor upgrades, but only one deck. So, when we decided to replace our own old deck with one using the latest materials, a how-to book was in order. After reviewing deck books at local stores, this one stood out as the most useful.
   
   Cons:
   
   - This book was written in 2002 and needs a major revision to incorporate current building materials. For example, the deck railing chapter talks mostly about building railings out of wood. The same is true for decking, where almost the entire focus is on wood. The author devotes a page or so to Trex and a few other materials available in 2002, but a host of newer products are now available. Today, there are a wide variety of composite planking (plastics & wood) choices; all synthetic decking such as Azek deck "boards"; PVC and perma-cast balusters; and metal-reinforced vinyl/PVC railing (stainless steel cables, aluminum, steel).
   
   - The book explains attaching the top of a staircase to the deck and methods for anchoring the stairs bottom to a concrete pad; without addressing the frost heave issue. In my area, outside concrete pads frequently frost-heave upwards up to an inch by mid-January. If the author's approach was used here, heaving would jack up the stair bottom, weakening or destroying stairs-to-deck connections. This was inexplicable since the author addresses the frost issue in other places.
   
   - There were a few techniques described that, lacking a diagram or photograph, were too ambiguous to be useful.
   
   - One book can't cover every construction scenario, but it was frustrating that it didn't cover some of the things I needed. E.g., in the section on how to flash the ledger board, the examples show houses with siding above and below the ledger. There were no examples of having siding above the ledger and a masonry wall below.
   
   - If a ledger is lag-screwed against the house sheathing (through to a rim joist), our county building code requires flashing (metal, butyl rubber, etc.) between the sheathing and the ledger. Following the book's approach of having nothing at all there wouldn't pass inspection.
   
   Pros:
   
   - The main focus is teaching the reader how to build a deck, rather than how to deal with a contractor that will build your deck.
   
   - Intelligently organized, with excellent "pro-tips", details, safety tips, building codes, diagrams, and photographs throughout.
   
   - I didn't want a deck book for the novice. Not to worry; the author uses a writing style that worked for me, but should still work for a novice. The book may be too basic for a decking contractor, but it should be helpful for anyone else.
   
   - Multiple approaches are described for most aspects of a deck project, versus having one this-is-the-way-to-do-it, approach.
   
   - Occasional mention of the applicable building code (e.g., balusters can be spaced no farther than 4" apart), with advice of how to exceed standards, when the author believes building codes are too lax.
   
   - Every aspect of a deck project is well discussed, except for financing. It starts with deck planning, and things you should consider, and progresses logically through foundations, ledgers, posts, and beams, joists, decking, railings, stairs, and custom details.
   
   Summary:
   
   This book was clearly worth its small cost, even though it didn't [adequately] cover newer materials or all construction issues. I improved several aspects of our planned deck, based on ideas in this book, and, found out most of what I needed to know in order to do the detail plans required by our county building inspections department.



5. I bought this product because one of the reviews of the other deck books said that this was the best book. My husband has learned a lot from it, and hopefully one day, we will actually have a deck in our yard :) Seriously, this is a good book, it is very thorough from beginning to end of the project. Highly recommended.

5 comments about Tips & Traps When Building Your Home.

1. This book was the first book I read on building. It has also been very informative and simple to understand.

   If you are beggining in building this is the perfect book for you.

   The Author really knows what he is talking about. Unlike some other books out there written buy someone who has never done it....




2. This is a very good book that is easy to read. Now, there were some things that I disagree with, as well as other "expert" developers, but overall the tips and traps were right on. So, this is a book that you should read if you are building a hime, but also read at least one other good book. Because of some of those things that were too specific (i.e., not mentioning other reasonable options), I nearly gave it four stars. However, it is worth reading and normally would warrant the five stars.



3. If you're new to building homes, this is a good book to get you started.



4. If you are looking for a really thorough book, this isn't it, but many of the tips are very helpful. Read it with a highlighter and just mark the good stuff and then refer back. I bought this along with Woodson's "Build Your Dream Home for Less" and found that the two together were a great pair. Woodson's is very thorough and takes you through step by step, and Irwin's had a lot of additional tips that Woodson's didn't. Irwin tends not to define many of the "trade" terms he uses and for people who aren't handy, it's frustrating. On the other hand, Woodson does define most terms so if you read both, you're in pretty good shape. This book is not the be-all, end-all book but definitely worth buying - it should save you some money if you are general contracting your home.



5. This is not the book to teach you all details of how to actually construct your home, but it's extremely useful to help you understand the process and get things started. Excellent "tips" and "traps"!!!

No comments about Knitting Art: 150 Innovative Works from 18 Contemporary Artists.

5 comments about Sunset Curtains, Draperies & Shades.

1. 'd been shopping for window treatments and could not find anything I liked. A friend urged me to consider sewing my own and recommended this book. The book was also recommended by some folks on an online sewing group that I have used for advice.
   
   This book has a huge amount of information about all aspects of sewing window treatments.
   
   There are step-by-step instructions for all kinds of window treatment projects. It includes curtains, draperies, shades, valences, cornices, swags, and cascades. It has a Getting Started section that covers window treatments in general with the kinds of treatments that are good for certain kinds of window, fabric choices, and calculation of yardage. Within these sections, there are special discussions of linings, edgings, tiebacks, the hanging of draperies and more.
   
   For each type of window treatment, in addition to sewing instructions, there are discussions of the different kinds of hardware that can be used, the accessories that can be used, and the various finishing touches that make the project your own.
   
   Within each section, each treatment is described in great detail and the various styles of each are discussed. For example, in the curtain section, there are curtain panels, curtains on rings, curtains with eyelet headings, tab curtains, sash curtains, and sunburst curtains.
   
   The most wonderful thing about this book is the huge number of color photos that are included. There are pages and pages of photos of the various window treatments interspersed with the instructions and discussions. There are also photos of curtain rods and accessories. Not only are these photos beautiful, but they really help if you are trying to picture how your room might look with the various style choices and colors. Even if you don't sew, this book can help you decide what you want to shop for in ready-made stores or even to show someone who can sew the treatments for you.
   
   I am a novice sewer and I've read through this book a few times. I'm not convinced I can take on a large project yet because I am not comfortable cutting fabric and that's a show-stopper. But I did create some simple valences with the help of this book and they came out great.
   
   I recommend this book if you like to sew and want to attempt window treatments. Even if you don't make something it will give you lots of ideas for your home.



2. From a notice sewer's viewpoint, the descriptions and instructions in this book were very good. As an example, it gives you a side-by-side comparison of the different types pleats used for draperies. Great for getting ideas for different types of window applications.



3. The instructions are good for the beginner to expert, Lots of photographs of diffrent kinds of window treatments. Great for the do it yourself seamstress who wants to make drapes, shades and curtains.



4. I first used this book in the early 80's when taking a class on pinch pleated draperies. It was the "textbook" for the class. I find the hardest part of sewing a window treatment is figuring the amount of fabric one will need. I think this book does an excellent job of explaining the width and length calculations. Since then I have scoured the internet for more instruction books on window treatments, as sewing them is my passion. I have not been able to find another book that is as detailed with illustrations as well. Mind you, this is not a general learn how to sew book. A person with limited or no knowledge of sewing should first learn to sew before tackling window treatments. Because this book was written many years ago, I would recommend using it as a book to learn the basics and then find another book for contemporary ideas such as The Encyclopedia of Window Fashions which can be purchased on Amazon.com. Good Luck and Happy Sewing!



5. Bought this book planning to get idea's from it. I was pleasantly pleased with not only the decorating idea's but I love the use of color in this book. If you are looking for idea's for adding more color to your rooms this is a great book. Then to cap it all off, they show you how to make everything in the book as well! Great Book.

5 comments about Building the Timber Frame House: The Revival of a Forgotten Art.

1. I have read all the major timber frame books on the market, including both titles from Jack Sobon. Benson's book is packed with information on how to build a timber frame and has an index in the back that allows one to figure out what size timber is needed. This book is one of, if not, the best on this subject.



2. The details on this are excellent. Sketches, plans, perspectives, maths, tables, formulas, theory, you have it all. All graphics hand-drawn! Each joint has a photo, a drawing and cutting details and dimensions. Focused too: nothing outside the scope of the *classic* timber frame.



3. My husband loves this book. He said he has learned so much and that this was the best book to learn how to build a timber frame house by.



4. If you are expecting a book full of glossy sharp pictures, this is not the one to buy.A lot of drawings and BW pictures that inform what they need to. This is a very good manual for those who want to venture in a timber frame project.



5. My friend is a master carpenter and he saw this book at a recent trip to Hanford Mills museum.
   He is an avid reader and loved the book so much that I am inclined to read it as well!! Enjoy.

No comments about Ellsworth on Woodturning: How a Master Creates Bowls, Pots, and Vessels.

5 comments about My Prescription for Anti-Depressive Living.

1. Well worth the money for this book! This book is awash with spectacular ideas for everyone's decorating tastes. Adler truly has the decorator's touch -- decorating a room without looking too overdone.



2. I don't normally write a review like this, but, what a terrible book! There is no motivational essence whatsoever,
   "throw a bunch of junk in a room, take a picture and call yourself a decorator". my friend said.
   "..only a mind of chaos and confusion would do this to a room", other friend.
   I ordered this book as a gift because I thought it was about decorating. We had a good laugh before I returned it. A nice chance to find out how close a friendship is.
   Lots of pictures of Mr. Adler.
   This book does have humor, ahem, but there are way better resources for decorating and humor. (good-grief, am I ever reaching for something "positive")
   If one can make colorful dull this man can and does. The book is about Mr. Adler promoting Mr. Adler.
   If you are not a "hollywood type..." stay clear. if this book represents the "hollywood type...", then I pity the "hollywood type..."
   It seems to be a picture book promoting the authors personal lifestyle. "A useless scrapbook" were the words of the gift recipient.
   "More like a coffee table book to find in the house of one, without goodtaste, who fantasizes a "hollywood lifestyle" not a decorator interest". Check it out carefully so you know you do share HIS tiresome, self-centered style and interests.
   As decorating help...his ideas are dated, limited and lacking in unity.
   A good experience in dealing with informational rip-off.



3. I bought this book for a friend's holiday gift, but liked it so much that I ended up keeping it.
   
   That being said, if you are looking for an instructional interior decorating book, this is not it.
   
   It's filled with vibrant colors, interesting designs, and cute anecdotes.
   
   If you have a few extra bucks, it's a nice treat - fluffy and light.



4. If you need a reason to smile, crack this book open and get ready to be inspired! Jonathan Adler is a decorator that definitely knows his style and isn't afraid to step out of the box to achieve that look. I was transported back to the 60s and 70s when many of the looks displayed in this book were popular. I am a huge fan of color and believe that we should all "feather our nests" with a look that brings a smile to our face when we walk through our front door. Jonathan agrees...and delivers! This book is very enjoyable and, even if you don't subscribe to his aesthetic, I think you can still appreciate the fun personality of this artistic and creative author. I keep this book out on my table for easy access and refer to it often.



5. I adored this book. I loved the stories and I loved the IDEAS. Now, pay attention: He doesn't lay out a formula for decorating and yes his rooms are a little "over the top." Would I have two giant chinese dogs on my patio? No..., BUT, I'm on the hunt for two smaller ones because I loved the idea. His other concepts -- using tassles in unexpected places, usuing color, pillows, adding "whimsy" -- are all concepts I'm using now in my home.
   
   I have two tassles now hanging from sconces that adorn my old Boston home. His vision also inspired me to see decorating in a new way and step out of the traditional paradigm. I'm combining prints, using bold colors, pairing different period pieces together. And ya know what? It looks GREAT and now our home is starting to reflect not just my style, but my husband's as well.
   
   Finally, his opening chapter is a forward by his life partner, who attests that decorating and your surroundings really *do* have an impact on your relationship. And ya know what? He's right!
   
   Great book, Jonathan. Keep writing more!

5 comments about Colonial Style: Creating Classic Interiors in Your Cape, Colonial, or Saltbox Home.

1. As proud new owners of an antique home in Marblehead, MA -- built circa 1720 -- we were thrilled to find Treena Crochet's "Colonial Style." It helped greatly in getting our creative juices in motion. And the author even took time to respond to my e-mail inquiry about a ceiling issue which had us stumped. The book is a real pleasure to own -- just like our antique home! Ann and Mike



2. This book has pretty pictures, but focuses on a more rustic colonial home. Think charming, yet squeeky, New England Inn. I was hoping for some pictures and ideas for a more "updated" Colonial with larger rooms. A little less "shabby chic" and more "classic decorating".
   
   I only write this review to guide others. The book is nice and is perfect for that person who likes the older, historic-feeling home.



3. This is a book which explores (mostly) middle class home interiors of the 18th and early 19th century. Yes, there are some odd digressions, but by and large it's a fine work brimming with great photos and ideas, mostly taken from original homes. This book is a solid effort, showing what appropriate 18th century interiors should look like when cleaned up in a modern restored house, or a recreated one. Those who like authentic interiors will like this book. Those who do not want an authentic interior, but want to mix and match taking a bit of this and a bit of that, but still want to call it colonial, will possibly find these interiors "dark and provincial". Well - news flash: 18th century middle class and lower class interiors in North America were, by their very nature, both dark (candle light, small windows, soot, dark paint) and provincial (being the colonies, after all). The word colonial has its own cachet, and many people insist on applying it to their house, no matter what kind of eclectic mish mash it is.



4. What it lacks in substance, it makes up for with pretty pictures. For historical zealots (such as myself) this book will leave you hungry for more information about Colonial homes and their historical roots, but for what it is, it's pretty decent. This book has good artwork, clean pictures and an interesting array of different Colonial styles.
   
   That being said, I was profoundly disappointed in the book's lack of images and information on the ubiquitous Colonial Revival. That was my reason for buying this book, as I wanted to learn more about that style of housing. "Colonial Style" had very little on this incredibly popular genre (and derivation) of domestic architecture.
   
   Then again, I am a purist. If you want some decorating ideas and like to look at pretty pictures of old Williamsburg-era Colonials, you'll love it.



5. The book was purchased to help guide an authentic restoration of a 1925 Saltbox in Atlanta. The cover was among the best photographs in the book, but many others were helpful in establishing a general sense of the colonial aesthetic, with which we were unfamiliar. The mouldings section was far briefer(and less helpful) than I was hoping for, but suppose you can't expect a full chapter devoted to base boards. Because we were adding a fireplace and bookcases, pictures from the book proved invaluable in communicating trim details to the contractor. In summary, the book well served our purposes. A heady read on colonial design it is not.

5 comments about Romantic Home Sewing: Cottage-Style Projects to Stitch for the Home.

1. I don't fall in love with books easily, but this one was love at first sight for me. The photos were clear. The ideas and instructions simple and easy to follow. I borrowed a copy from the public library, now I want my own.



2. The fabrics and patterns in this book are lovely. Photographic representation of all the projects are clear and wonderfully presented. The instructions seem clear (except I did find an important step for one of the handbags was omitted).
   
   I give it 4 stars instead of 5 mainly because it contains templates that have to be enlarged on a copier instead of full-size patterns. It appears that is typical with sewing books, but it is an inconvenience and requires a trip to a copy store (plus the cost) since they need to be enlarged to such a degree, you cannot do it on a regular copier without great difficulty.
   
   Fortunately there are only a few projects in this book that have templates - most of the crafts are going to be custom sized by you to fit your bed, chair, windows, etc, so templates would not be feasible.
   
   However, I do recommend this book. I am happy to have it and I do not regret purchasing it. Christina Strutt's designs are sweet and warm and this book is a welcome addition to my collection.



3. The pictures are nice , the fabric & the way it presents the instructions too.
   That is all to it. Nothing more.



4. Excellent book! Christina Strutt had my tastes in mind when she wrote this book. It is for people who don't know much about sewing, love vintage fabrics and want to learn some ideas on how to use them. The pictures are beautiful and the instructions are clear.



5. I really love this book - simple but rewarding projects that most sewers would have no trouble with. lovely photography.