5 comments about Re-Bound: Creating Handmade Books from Recycled and Repurposed Materials.

1. If you're a thing finder or stuff holder you will be delighted with this book as it inspires one to use many of their "treasures" in ways that makes you wonder why you didn't think of it then has you rummaging through your stuff. With the use of piano binding a stash of swizzle sticks can find a new purpose, left over rolls of tickets have a practical use, and the gallery at the end will give you ideas for those board games that are missing a few pieces.
   
   This isn't exactly for the casual book artist with a stash of just papers but that creative person, young or old, with odds and ends at hand. This book and a box of stuff, take a peek inside and see if you have anything to help make a project or two, would make a great gift for that hard to shop for multi media artist.



2. Very creative bookbinding and bookmaking ideas, but it could give more details on how to make them.



3. I'm interested in binding my own books for myself and personalized presents, but even more interested in recycling. I love this book, spells it out for tools, etc. Worth the investment.



4. Found this book at the library and after reading it I knew I had to have it in my personal library because I knew I would be referring to it again and again. The author shares many fun techniques on making books from recycled materials. The directions are clear and easy to follow.



5. As an artist and someone who's interested in -- and looks at -- crafts of all types, it's hard to surprise me anymore. But this book does! It's a great mix of well-thought out projects, each with a savvy twist on the hoary scrapbooks/journals I've grown tired of cringing over. Stein has a definite sensibility that somehow avoids the tired, yet, doesn't pander to the 'punk' aesthetic permeating crafting today either. Clear, concise writing and excellent photography really elevate the book from being a mere how-to. The mix of materials used was fun and inspiring and the finished products make both great keepsakes and gifts. New and seasoned crafters will find these projects easily adaptable to their own interests and can be great jumping-off points for projects of their own. This books a definite keeper!

5 comments about Book + Art: Handcrafting Artists' Books.

1. As much a gallery as a how-to-book, it is simply an amazing demonstration of what can be done. I am a photographer interested in finding ways to use a series of photographs. I have not come even close to Krause's beautiful, expressive work, but it has helped me see what I can do and for that I am very, very grateful.



2. As a working artist, my body of work is based in classic figurative oils. But when I picked up this new book,"Book + Art" by Dorothy Simpson Krause the only word I can use is inspirational! It wants to make you explore, new techniques,materials, and concepts. It is obvious that the artist's wealth of technique and information is based on a life of exploration. I would suggest to all artist to have this book in your creative library for the experience of this woman is invaluable. Back to the studio!!!
   Sean Rush
   [...]



3. I've been meaning to review this book for ages. I own a large collection of books about artist's books and this rates as one of the best.
   
   There are other books that provide more specific instructions about how to construct particular book structures, so if that is what you are looking for this might not be the book for you. It is not a book about techniques (although plenty of technical information is included), it is a book about how ideas can be transformed into the book form. If you are interested in the intersection of structure and content then this book is a gem. The commentary on the books illustrated in this volume provides an insight into the artist's thought processes. I can only imagine how inspirational Dorothy Simpson Krause must be as a teacher.
   
   My only complaint? There are some places where the lack of contrast between the textured background and the text makes for difficult reading.



4. Dorothy Simpson Krause is a pioneer in combining traditional and cutting edge printmaking methods and materials. She often uses her paintings, collages and prints as the basis for artists' books. Krause draws on this varied experience in her new instructional book, BOOK+ART: HANDCRAFTING ARTISTS' BOOKS.
   
   The title of the book's first chapter sets the tone: "A Format for Artistic Expression." Unlike many other how-to book arts books, BOOK+ART stresses content. The projects in this primer on basic image making techniques and book structures are not illustrated with empty, decorative examples. Every book used to illustrate the techniques is accompanied by an explanation of what the piece is ABOUT.
   
   The book also functions as a monograph. Each section of the book begins with an introduction to a basic structure or technique, followed by a two page portfolio of Krause's work. She provides insight into her creative process by discussing research, ideas and travels associated with the work, and explanations of the images, text and materials used.
   
   The book begins by building a foundation for the projects, with a description of book and print making tools, materials and substrates, and touches briefly on safety, copyright and permanence of materials. It ends with a glossary, and resources for supplies and further information.
   
   In between are descriptions of various image and book making techniques. Each technique begins with an introduction and list of materials, followed by clearly written, concise and complete instructions. Photos further illuminate each step. "Creative Explorations" sidebars encourage the reader to experiment with similar techniques and materials at a more advanced level. "Helpful Hints" sidebars help beginners avoid common pitfalls they would not have the experience to anticipate, and to begin to appreciate details of a book's functionality, such as scoring heavyweight paper near the spine so a stab bound book can open fully, or adjusting a book spine to accommodate additional materials to be added in the future.
   
   Image making techniques covered include painting, drawing, encaustic, collage, toning, paste painting, gelatin mono prints, image transfer, and decals; both alone and in conjunction with digital printing.
   
   Book making techniques begin with filling a blank book, then altering an existing book. Subsequent sections on scrolls and folded structures, adhesive bound books and sewn structures begin simply and progress to more complex projects. Titling, book closures and containers are also covered.
   
   Most techniques can be accomplished with a minimum of supplies and equipment. This lean approach makes BOOK+ART a great resource for someone who must teach a workshop at a site that is not a studio, to students who own few tools.
   
   Throughout the book, Krause graciously acknowledges her own instructors, and a list of their websites is provided. In a brief summary and conclusion she encourages readers to continue their progress by experimenting, adding to their skill set, and studying the work of other artists. In the spirit of collegiality, she shares her own book arts goals.
   
   BOOK+ART is a great starting place for an artist who wants to learn about book structures, for a bookbinder who wants to know more about image making, and for anyone who wants to jumpstart their process to successfully put the two together in a meaningful way.



5. Like lots of artists who want to either alter an extant book or create one from the ground up, I've thumbed through, bought, or checked out many how-to books on the subjects. But I'm usually disappointed by the works illustrated. As is true of Dorothy Krause's new book, all come with guidelines and accompanying illustrations, but, unlike hers, and ironically, few of the resulting products actually move me, the finished works juggling text and imagery in an arbitrary manner.
   
   Most texts on the subject--including this one--tout the nearly limitless possibilities available to someone wanting to either alter or create a book from the ground up, but more often than not the flexibility of the medium is taken as license rather than privilege and weaker artists than Krause "let rip" accordingly, designing, layering, and collaging without regarding the principles of good design, textual integration, and imagery. Thematically they play it fast and loose, employing a plethora of stereotypical images and arriving at hackneyed associations.
   
   Krause's book and work, on the other hand, actually show how powerful the book arts can be. Her generosity with her knowledge and experience--a sure sign of a good teacher--is matched by the tantalizing final products lavishly showcased. My only lament, though I realize the impracticality involved: that not each page of each work is shown.
   
   I especially love Krause's painterly-ness; her rich palette reminds the reader that dark can be beautiful. The variety of binding and novel altering options offered come with great photographs, clear explanations, and helpful asides.
   
   I recommend this book to anyone whe wishes to have not just a glancing but a hands-on relationship with the book arts. But I also recommend it to anyone who just loves opening a book and being dazzled by it.

5 comments about Bookcraft: Techniques for Binding, Folding, and Decorating to Create Books and More.

1. The book is great, with detailed explanations on each kind of binding, from the classical techniques to very inovative ones. It is also good because it uses tools and techniques that can be made at home, without expensive or pro materials.



2. This how-to book starts with an introduction to materials and tools used in book arts. It also points out some basic bookmaking rules on paper grain, cutting and gluing.
   
   The first chapter is heavily focused on binding methods. Thirteen book structures were shown with highly detailed and clear step-by-step instructions from start to finish. Its primary focus is on various on how the signatures/pages and covers can be bound using the simple gluing and/or stitching. It seemed to me that this chapter's basic goal is to create a repertoire of basic bookmaking skills for the novice, and it is my opinion that it did succeed in meeting this goal.
   
   The second chapter covers most basic principles and processes for creating the pages and covers. Various methods were shown in a demonstration type photo-illustrations such as cutting, "surface sculpting" (debossing and embossing), and folding.
   
   Its third and last chapter is a gallery type section that shows how the techniques covered in the previous chapters were used. With the book as an art form in mind, eighteen books created by the author and other bookmakers were presented by using the book structure/pages as a `canvas' or `media' creatively and imaginatively to tell stories or communicate via visual and/or textual means. I found the last three books at the end of the chapter to be very intriguing and fascinating because of the way the "boundaries" were being pushed to the point where they almost ceased to be viewed as "books".
   
   Overall, this book serves as a nice introduction to the world of book arts. The photographs are beautiful, and the instructions are pretty clear. I would most likely use its first chapter to refresh my memory on various book structure designs. No matter how many books on book arts I have bought over the past years, I always find something new to learn. In this book, I have learned a few new things from this book such as hybrid structures and "debossing". But for some of the techniques presented in this book (one example - pop-up), I would look in other books for more detailed information.



3. This is a wonderful book. I received it from the vendor in a very timely manner and in the condition described. I will order from this vendor if it has a book I want. The book is very informative, has great illustrations, and in very comprehensive.



4. In this book, author Heather Weston breaks down the art of bookbinding into a simple, straightforward process.
   
   Covering 13 different forms of bookbinding as well as half a dozen kinds of decorative page and cover details, this is one of the most thorough bookbinding resources on the market. With step-by-by step instructions and pictures to match, it also contains examples of books made by professional book binders that used the techniques outlined in the book.
   
   In addition to detailed instructions, Weston also provides a thorough list of necessary bookbinding materials. For readers who don't want to invest the money in professional grade bookbinding materials up front, Weston offers ideas for less expensive options that will still achieve the desired result.
   
   This book is the perfect starting place for those who would like to pursue bookbinding professionally, or as a hobby. Weston makes beautiful bound books an achievable goal for crafters of any level.



5. Yes, this is a great book to start out, lots of wonderful ideas to get the gray matter going....and to inspire. Fun projects to start out with and to build your confidence. I use it over and over, this one is definitely for your library.

5 comments about 500 Handmade Books: Inspiring Interpretations of a Timeless Form (500 Series).

1. The pictures in this book are gorgeous, and I love how they list the materials and binding type (when applicable) for all the books.



2. I've bought this book because I thought there would be the "how to do it".
   I found it interesting, but only photos do not help me.
   Sorry, but I was looking for some instructions.



3. This book is so cool. I bind my own books, and I learn something new every time I open it.



4. This book is full of books that are exquisite! I just love looking through it for inspiration!



5. This is a very handsome 420 page volume of gorgeous handmade book ideas. It also looks great on the coffee table as a conversation piece.

5 comments about The Pocket Paper Engineer, Volume I: Basic Forms: How to Make Pop-Ups Step-by-Step.

1. I purchased this book for my 10 year old son who has a penchant for making things out of folded paper and tape. Although his usual Saturday routine would be to turn on cartoons for a couple hours, instead he opened up this book which we had just received and proceeded to plow through the first 7 or 8 projects. Each lesson clearly explains one pop-up concept with an accompanying tear-out sheet to do it yourself. He worked steadily and was extremely proud of his progress and only asked for assistance when the projects began needing an Exacto blade. With very little help he was able to tackle those projects as well. Later he was able to reproduce the pop-ups on his own without referring to the directions.
   
   The book isn't just for kids and the art is retro-hip and pleasing to look at. I did a couple as well and then "popped out" a hand-made father's day card for my dad. I am planning to get the next book in the series.



2. I liked this book so much when I bought it myself that I ordered it for a friend. Kids can use it to make simple pop-ups for cards or their own books. It has simple instructions and plenty of ideas and examples.



3. I was astounded with the simplicity of the book in teaching three dimensional popups and the multiple hands-on examples that it provided. I loved it!



4. Pop-up books and cards delight children and adults with their unique and clever designs, but how are these intricate pictures created? If you've ever wanted to make one yourself, The Pocket Paper Engineer will show you how.
   
   This set of two volumes focuses on basic pop-up forms, platforms and props in a fully hands-on manner. Designed to be taken apart and used in construction, the pages are sturdy and include pockets to place your finished products. Clear directions and illustrations show you exactly how to put these pop-up designs together, and then explain how to use these newly acquired skills for creations of your own.
   
   The Pocket Paper Engineer is well-designed, and the step-by-step instructions are easy for anyone to follow. I highly recommend these unique how-to books on crafting pop-ups.
   
   Reviewer: Alice Berger, Bergers Book Reviews



5. A great book with samples to try out the different pop ups. Great for novices to get started.

5 comments about How to Make Books: Fold, Cut & Stitch Your Way to a One-of-a-Kind Book.

1. This book gives a lot of alternatives to making books. It is as visually pleasing and also lots of fun. It is also a great reference book. The best book I have bought on book making. You should also buy her other book Magic Books and Paper Toys. A must for every paper and book artists.



2. If you're into bookmaking or any other kind of "handmade construction", you must have this book. Great illustrations paired with clear step-by-step instructions - with ideas easily adaptable for even the youngest bookmakers. My 6 year old daughter and I went page by page through the whole book. We were fascinated by each example (great photos), and she was inspired to make her own fabric book like the one found here. A simple enough design for her first sewing machine project - with great results. And it's a really cool book just to hold.



3. I've always wanted to make books, for myself, for other people, for my grandson. I saw this book at a bookstore in Vancouver, B.C. in March but I didn't buy it. Instead I wrote down the title and author, and I'm so glad I did! So when I finally ordered it, I was thrilled. It details so many different ways to make books, and talks about the origins of those binding processes. The instructions are thorough and are reinforced by drawings of the step by step procedures to follow. I've looked at a lot of books about making books, and this is by far the best one I've ever seen.



4. I purchased this book based on the positive reviews on Amazon. After receiving the book, I was disappointed after reviewing the book.
   
   It is interesting but not as detailed as I had hoped. And the hand drawings showing how to stitch was confusing. I wouldn't recommend this to a newbie just learning. Instead I recommend Bookcraft: Techniques for Binding, Folding, and Decorating to Create Books and More. It was much more thorough and complete. I found this book at the library and it was hands down better.



5. I have been a lifelong reader and collector of books, but never even thought of making my own (at least not since grade school) until I caught sight of this book in the store. I fell in love. If you are the overacheiving type who feels the need to produce archival-quality work every time, or conversely if you are intimdidated by the thought of even trying your hand at a new craft, this is your book--and all the more so if you already are intoxicated by the smell and feel of books. Esther takes all the anxiety away and lets you have fun, while at the same time showing you some really cool stuff to make. Since her book I've slowly been growing my bookmaking library (and handmade book library too)... some other guides have more astonishing examples, but they are rather intimidating. Esther's other book, Magic Books and Paper Toys, is delightful and accessible in the same way (the illustrations in the latter are easier to follow too--sometimes the illustrations in How to Make Books are more artful than helpful). Can't wait to see more of Esther's work!

5 comments about The Penland Book of Handmade Books: Master Classes in Bookmaking Techniques.

1. The book came quickly and was in excellent shape. We love it and are enjoying it immensely. Thank you!



2. I already have a small library on how to make handmade books (Alisa Golden's etc), and these are great when you are looking for detailed instructions on how to assemble a particular style of book. But they are not exactly bedtime reading. Penland's book is a book you can curl up and read. Each chapter focuses on one book artist, and then they break down a typical project for them with step-by-step instructions and photos. Many of these instructions were condensed; they appear to be included so that you can get a sense of how each artist constructs a book in their own style, not necessarily so that you can make the same book.
   
   I particularly enjoyed the galleries at the end of each chapter, where the artist featured their favorite book artists or books that inspired them. The artists featured don't make typical handmade books - they are incredibly creative. I found it interesting how many books were constructed with some carpentry skills, not just paper and glue. Highly recommended. (This is a large book; treat yourself to the hardcover version if you can.)



3. This is indeed a master class. Great tool for experts and beginners alike.
   http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1600593003/ref=cm_cr_rev_prod_title



4. This is a book that one can sit down with over and over again for inspiration.
   I love this book.
   
   Ingrid



5. This book is a wonder of the book maker's art. It is not a basic how-to, but beautifully rendered collection of photographs which depict the ingenuity of the artisan/artists who both prize and create the rare and the extraordinary. Worth having if you are a bibliophile and share the artist's soul.

1 comments about Eco Books: Inventive Projects from the Recycling Bin.

1. A very clever presentation of new uses for old things and new life for items that would normally be thrown away. Fun!

No comments about Playing with Books: The Art of Upcycling, Deconstructing, and Reimagining the Book.

5 comments about Painted Paper: Techniques & Projects for Handmade Books & Cards.

1. I love this book, and can hardly wait to get started spinning off projects of my own based on some of the techniques Golden demonstrates. Some people here have complained about its lack of step-by-step book-binding or book-building instructions, but that's not what this book promises. If you can already do some basic bookbinding, but need help, suggestions, detailed technique instructions, or just plain inspiration about how to take your books a step (or several) further through the use of paint and paper, then this book should absolutely be on your shelf. The projects aren't limited to book art, either: she shows elegant, way-beyond-routine techniques that could easily be used to make wall art, mail art, and, yes, the cards promised in the title.
   
   This is not a book that will show you exactly how to make a project exactly like one of Golden's. It is a book that will fire up your own creativity.
   
   This is not a book full of detailed book-making tutorials. It is a book that recognizes that there are a score or more of book-making books already out there, and that offers you simple techniques to take your books to new levels of beauty and meaning.
   
   This is a wonderful book for walking you through the use of a wide variety of materials, surfaces, paints, inks, etc., and for getting you started using them to create what YOU want to create. This book should have a permanent place in every book or paper artist's home library.



2. I was truly hoping for more than a chapter on book construction. The book is excellent for anyone who has limited experience in painting techniques. I, however, purchased the book in hopes that it would detail how to construct the books the author has so beautifully photographed. I'm left examining the photos and feeling a bit shortchanged.



3. Excellent book full of great sample photos and easy, illustrated directions. Covers a wide variety of book styles and painting techniques. Great inspirational source for motivating one into action, creating one's own artwork.Painted Paper: Techniques & Projects for Handmade Books & Cards



4. Really enjoyed this book. Lots of ways to paint paper and they are all beautiful.



5. The unique ideas for creating handmade papers as well as a full section of thoroughly explained book structures have been a true inspiration. The writing style is fun and easy to read, while the photos and illustrations make the concepts easy to grasp. All crafters should have this one in their library for the next time they need a little inspiration. There is much within!