5 comments about Stamping Effects in Polymer Clay With Sandra McCall.

1. I enjoy looking through this book by Sandra McCall. The photos are well done and the instruction is clear. There are many techniques and projects included in the book. I like the wire working and tile mosaic look of some of the items. This book is beautifully done.



2. book is a great help in learning work stamping into any polymer clay project. Great fun.



3. This book is a keeper! Sandra McCall has packed this book with wonderful projects. She has a keen eye for color and a style that is very inspiring. I found new techniques which I've never seen any place else, before, or even since reading this book. She tells of an easy way to quickly add sheen to beads without having to dip them into anything or even buffing. Quite a nifty time saver!
   
   This was the first polymer clay book I bought, I had just gotten my info off the web sites, I'm so glad I bought it. I still pick it up often and get inspired to make more of the projects or try them in a new way.
   
   The techniques and designs in the book are much more valuable than the cover price. My thanks to Sandra!!



4. This is an outstanding how-to of meshing stamping and polymer clay. I dabble in polymer clay bead making, but most if not all of the techniques in this book will apply or are adaptable to making beads. I find McCall's instructions to be thorough, photos explanatory and the projects to be creative and innovative. Bravo!



5. This book combines two of my favoriate crafts and so must be a winner. It's good to see stamping used for something other than birthday cards and scrapbooks.

5 comments about Welcome to the Jungle (Beyond Projects: The CF Sculpture Series, Book 2).

1. I had seen this book in a store while out of town and on a strict budget. When I got home I checked my local haunts and it was no where to be found. Bummer. A friend suggested Amazon. Sure enough, there it was, I bought this one and one other, I plan to purchase the rest as soon as possible. Amazon was the perfect price including shipping and it arrived a day sooner than estimated. I live in a very small town in Northern CA. I have to travel 75 miles to the nearest craft store for supplies. From now on, I will check out Amazon before making the long haul and spend my money on goodies instead of fuel!



2. Cf is both funny and instructional in her books and Jungle is no exception. She has done it again.



3. I purchased Christi Friesen's polymer clay books on Dragons and Under the Sea. I was very impressed with both. This particular book... not so much. I expected a bunch of jungle animals to be able to make but the majority of the book was plants, leaves, etc. I doubt I'll do any of the projects out of this book because they are just not my thing. It is still packed full of Christi's wonderful pictures and instructions.



4. CF provides clear instructions for even the beginning sculptor. She also has a great sense of humor which shines through in her books.



5. I have the whole series and they are all great. The Author gives you the basic info to make the project, embellishment ideas and your on your way.
   I love these books

5 comments about Polymer Clay Creative Traditions: Techniques and Projects Inspired by the Fine and Decorative Arts.

1. This book is a great addition to any library. Plenty of projects and examples of professionals work that you could actually do. You can really get a lot of ideas to to create your own art work. I really like the book.



2. Just started this technique. Very well illustrated and the photos will get you enthusiastic about the craft. Hope I get as good as these photos.



3. I should have paid more attention to the other 3-star review. I am behind the times and am pretty new to claying. (Right now I am interested in only jewelry.) While this is a beautiful book, perhaps it is more suited to those with more experience (or wider interests in clay.) The book cover features only jewelry and while the cover pieces do appear in the book, full directions for these pieces were not always included. In addition, many of the other pieces in the book are not jewelry (they are boxes, purses, wall art, free-standing sculpture) and those appealed to me less. Also, while the book does include some techniques and projects, overall it is more of a gallery-type book which I didn't necessarily expect given the book's title. The techniques and tips included are sometimes very basic, even for a newbie like me (making Skinner blends, different brands of clay require different firing temps, watch out for air bubbles)and at other times, the instructions for the specific faux techniques were very sparse (at least to me) or entirely absent. I would not have purchased this book had I seen what was in it first. However, I did get a few inspirations from it so all is not lost!



4. but i think i wanted more instructions on the techniques. In at least one case, the instructions provided created alot of extra work and expense, at least for me, which is why i gave the book only 4 stars. But overall a good idea for a book and nice effort, which will provide many with new techniques and ideas.



5. This book has so many ideas and projects that if I never purchased another book, I would be busy the rest of my life! It is good for every level. it has good basic instructions as well as inspiring pictures.I love it!

5 comments about 400 Polymer Clay Designs: A Collection of Dynamic & Colorful Contemporary Work (500 Series).

1. A friend of mine who has been working in polymer clay for over thirty years, loaned me this book. Oh my goodness, what a collection of amazing talent. Such beautiful full color photography, and the subject matter is so varied: sculpture, jewelry, purses, boxes, vessels, wall hangings, and on and on.
   
   I had to have my own copy, not just because of the "eye candy" through out, but because it is diffilcult to explain to people that have no knowledge of this art form, . . . just what is Polymer Clay? I am a new artist in this amazing medium, and when I talk to clients about this clay, I now have the perfect "show and tell" book to dazzle them with.
   
   And yes, it is the perfect "coffee table" book. You'll see!



2. Lark scores another A+ for their 400 and 500 series of craft books. I am incredibly picky about craft books I purchase and I couldn't be without this one. There isn't an instruction to be found...this isn't about polymer clay as a hobby and it isn't a book of projects or techniques, but it is an eye-popping, amazing collection of polymer clay art. Just five minutes leafing through the pages gives me enough inspiration to last weeks. In these pages you will see every conceivable technique and some that are so new and innovative, you'll be meeting them for the first time. Congratulations to Lark on another in this fabulous series.



3. all the photo in the book represent THE perfect piece of art WITH POLYMER CLAY
   the editing is great and i love every page in this book



4. Although many wonderful polymer clay artists do not have pieces in this book (e.g. John Anderson's animals), the pieces/artists within the pages of this beautifully laid out book are truly insprirational. After doing a review on a recent book on polymer clay (PC) beads, I felt that I had to look through my other PC books and re-examined this treasure. No, it is not for beginners, and no there are no guidelines on how the artist made their piece(s), just a brief note on the title of the work, items used and maybe a few words by the artist on the piece. The photography of each piece is stunning. The creative process of PC artists today is utterly amazing and this book provides ideas on where one can go with their own work, if PC is the medium of choice. I also appreciate the pieces using other products in the piece (e.g. beads, metal, paper mache, feathers, wood, herbs, sand, etc.). PC canework by some of the artists is also incredible and trying to imagine how they came up with the pattern(s) is often mind-boggling. This makes an excellent coffee table book and for the PC artist, inspiration to strive towards excellency in this medium.



5. All of Larks 400 and 500 series books are not instructional: they are inspirational. This book showcases some of the best polymer work being done. I have pored over and over it for the past year and I never tire of looking at it!

5 comments about Polymer - The Chameleon Clay: ArtRanch Techniques for Re-creating the Look of Ivory, Jade, Turquoise, and Other Natural Materials.

1. Victoria Hughes is clearly well experienced at polymer techniques and a master teacher. Her book is organized well, good pictures, excellent instructions, beautifully written. My favorite part, however, is the beginning chapters in which she discusses the creative process and how to approach your experience with the the clay as a true artist, regardless of your experience level. Her book is my favorite on this subject.



2. This book shows a whale of a lot of timeless information about how to work with polymer clay. Topics include: clay itself; fundamentals, procedures, techniques for working with clay; the nature of color; color mixing; tools and molds; materials commonly (and not commonly) used with clay; aspects of design; more. Ms Hughes gives clay recipes and gives projects. Directions tell the `how' and include the `why' for details so that I can catch the principle and remember it.
   
   Having spent hours and hours and hours reading on line at the major polymer clay sites, there are a couple of names that stand out. One is Judith Skinner for the now ubiquitous skinner blend. The other is Victoria Hughes for these "imitative" techniques that produce wonders of translucence and style.
   
   I originally got this book when it was first published. I lent it to a friend who didn't return it. I got another one; ditto. Several copies later, I gave my copy-of-the-moment to my grandson. I forgot that I'd given it to him, and so looked all over the house for it... repeatedly. At last, I've gotten another copy. This is a classic that I refer back to time and time again. To say this book is `good', would be like saying that Obama is a `pleasant' man.



3. I can't understand why this book has such rave reviews. This is the reason I purchased it but was very disappointed and sent it back. I think it is a waste of money and maybe my view is based upon the fact that there are so many good polymer clay books that followed this one. If I hadn't sampled these newer books maybe I would be like the other consumers here, giving it five stars. In all honesty, save your money for something better.



4. Polymer: The Chameleon Clay was the first polymer clay book I bought. It's not really geared toward beginners, but I've never been afraid to jump in with both feet. I'm glad I did! Victoria Hughes is a pioneer in making polymer clay look like just about anything. While I've since seen alternate techniques that make creating faux bone or stones simpler, I've never seen an technique that does it more realistically than hers. I regret I've never had a chance to take one of her classes.
   
   In addition to the wonderful techniques for mimicking other materials, this book is inspirational. It showcases wonderful art or Hughes and a number of other talented artists. Exciting techniques, a wide variety of projects and beautiful photography combine to make this book remain one of my favorite books on polymer clay--and I now have quite a library of them!



5. I have gotten frustrated by books that only show a person how to make product "X". This book teaches the reader several techniques and how to apply them. From the beginning of the book the reader is encouraged to consider the creative process and experiment with their own techniques and designs. While you are learning specific techniques, Tori Hughes also points out that changes in color and style will also work well. Through this she is teaching the reader, not just showing them how to do a project. That alone makes this book a valuable asset to a book shelf. I highly recommend this book.

5 comments about Make Your Own Playdough, Paint, and Other Craft Materials: Easy Recipes to Use with Young Children.

1. to my daughter with the four kids. Can't say she'll ever have time to look into it but she surely buys enough of the real stuff that she should. Can't say that I've looked into it myself.



2. I think this book is wonderful! If you have any of the "how to make and do things" type of books some of these recipes might be included but to see them all laid out in order with recipes for different things is very nice! Plus most of the recipes all share common ingredients so you don't need to buy a lot of hard to find stuff for each project.
   
   The way this book is laid out,with one recipe per page and large print,is very easy for children to read.My daughter really enjoyed being able to read the list and help mix up the ingredients.We especially liked the gloop and glop recipes for making slime.
   
   If you work at a school or daycare or if your kids go through paint and playdough like it is going out of style,I highly reccomend this book to cut supply cost because whipping up large batches of supplies will save you lots of money and if you get the kids involved is an awesome learning experience!



3. This book has been a great help to me as a stay at home mom of a toddler!! Great ideas to keep her busy when the weather is too hot to get outside(or as winter approaches too cold!). I love the ideas and my daughter has loved the varied activities in her "art" time!



4. I have to assume that this book is very good. I bought it for someone else and had it sent directly to them. They specifically asked for it by name and author.



5. Every parent, teacher, childcare provider, and scout leader should have this budget friendly book. The variety of recipes, science experiments, and resourceful materials presented are valuable for expanding a child's education. Using just about everything a person already has in his/her kitchen, creative materials can be formed with little cost. It includes over 100 recipes, and presents ideas for every season of the year.
   
   I recommend buying this book, not just to have fun with your children, but for the knowledge they will gain, homemade gift ideas, holiday decorations, and the many other educational teaching elements it provides. You will find simple, but affordable gift ideas for children to make, discovery table suggestions, and many experiments. Each chapter of the book lists what children can learn and accomplish. Whether your child needs help learning measurements, hand-eye coordination, or learning science, you'll find this book to offer it all. The recipes and activities offer instructive and physical advantages for children, and teach them, as well as parents, about ways to recycle.
   
   The Author has worked with young children for over ten years, and the quality of her experience in this book is evident. She understands that family resources are difficult to manage and still afford the extras, while providing an educational and fun activity for kids.
   
   
   Kristina N. is a thrifty stay-at-home mother of six children, and home schools her preschooler. She does freelance writing in her spare time.

5 comments about Creative Techniques for Polymer Clay Jewelry.

1. I'm new to using polymer clay and am on the look out for new ideas and techniques that I can follow exactly or add my own twist. This book has great projects with good "how-to" instructions. Definitely one of the better books I've purchased. And it's interesting to see what different jewellery artists' create with polymer clay due its awesome versatility.



2. I have had so much fun using the techniques in this book, and I haven't even gotten 1/3 of the way through. I wasn't sure I would like it as well as Donna Kato's book on surface techniques, but I have actually found it easier to work with. Perhaps it is a question of aesthetics - I really like the author's color schemes and design sense. Would definitely buy this book again!!!



3. Some interesting concepts. Seemed a bit too project orientated for me personally but learned a few things and interesting to see her process.



4. If you wonder how polymer artists create all those incredible, minute details and delicate shading read this book. Ms. Bananto's designs may or may not be to your taste, but (hey, we're all different) the secret of HOW she achieves them is relevant for anyone who wants to develop such skills. Basics and general information are well written too. Good work, lady.



5. Basics were covered well and her basic canework instructions (18 canes) were perfectly photograhed and explained. Considering I'm the visual, put things together by the diagram alone kind of person, I'm picky about photo demonstrations in clay books. There never seems to be enough. I think I could make up every cane solely instructed by photos in this book.
   
   The projects include typical sliced beads, rolled beads, image transfers, a really cool fidget pendant and much more. She also includes the jewelry making steps as well as the clay making.
   
   I especially enjoyed the color palette section (inspirational fabric samples) and the color palettes supplied at each project. That's a tip I will use regularly.

2 comments about Imagine Your World in Clay.

1. Maureen Carlson is one of my favorite polymer clay artists. This book is great.



2. This book's steps make it impossible to fail. Even if you have trouble with detail and faces, you can do it. Kids will appreciate the step-by-step approach and won't feel overwhelmed.-Such cute results(and a great confidence builder)!-A great way to move kids from average-intermediate ability with clay.

5 comments about Celebrations With Polymer Clay: 25 Seasonal Projects.

1. This was a used book I purchased and I have to say I was very, very pleased with the condition.
   The author of this book puts everything in very simple terms & makes it easy for a newby to follow along.
   I really love it & was glad to add it to my collection of polymer clay books that is ever expanding thanks to Amazon!!!



2. I first seen this book at a crafting store and with their price came home and found it on Amazon.com at a lower cost..thats the first most important thing...I really love the way they incorperate the mica's in the projects to give them a very rich expensive non crafted look..I was very impressed with the projects in this book and reviewing it before I bought it was the selling point for me..Mrs.C.



3. I collect books on Polymer Clay Artistry and Beading, and this is one of the best of any genre. An absolute classic, suitable for beginners and more experienced clay artists. If you ever thought of Polymer Clay as a relative to Play-Doh, you won't after reading this lucious book.



4. It is a beautiful book to look at and to admire. But if you are a beginner I suggest going with "New ways with Polymer clay" and or "The polymer clay techniques book". The Techniques book is very helpful!! I loved this book but for now all I can do is look and dream.



5. I love this book and I know you will too if you are into clay or just thinking about trying it. The projects are all wonderful, with easy to follow instructions. Everything to keep a beginner or an advanced clayer busy. Sarajane Helm out did herself this time. Can wait to see what's up her other sleeve.

4 comments about Polymer Clay: Exploring New Techniques and New Materials (Includes Precious Metal Clay).

1. I liked this book for the inspiring techniques. Unfortunately some of the images 'showed off' what you could do without offering true recipes. The Mokumo game looks great.. the step by step is impossible to follow because there are no images and instructions say use ripple blade on one side of a layered block - there are six sides - please! which one? I still don't know. I'm wasting numerous blocks of clay trying to work out exactly what was meant by the very poor instructions. In all, this book is a little disappointing but still a worthwhile addition to your library. I only wrote this review to counter all the 5/5 reviews because they make it look like a miracle book, it isn't but it's good.



2. This book includes projects never before published.
   Each project artist submitted their text, project and work samples resulting in a good sampling of diversity for the materials. Georgia Sargeant culled from these submissions the most interesting and with her fine writers' skills polished up the manuscript to present clearly understandable directions and information for many new techniques.
   The photographic close ups are extremely helpful in supporting the instructions for each step, making following along a simple and fun process.
   I often use this book when I teach polymer clay and Precious Metal Clay programs. My students have found it to be a great resource for the techniques in both media.
   I think this is definitely a new classic when it comes to polymer clay and Precious Metal Clay and I'm very honored to have been a part of this project.



3. Its broad spectrum is what makes this polymer clay book exciting. As the title suggests, the projects included in the book explore a wide range of techniques and materials. The first section delves into the construction of some very handsome projects using polymer clay. Georgia Sargeant has selected an excellent variety of items that will appeal to most everyone. The instructions are clear and the photographs stunning. I especially like the fact that she has included variations for each of the techniques.
   The second section of the book explores the basics of using silver clay as well as some more detailed projects. Celie Fago is renowned for her work with silver and this book gives her a chance to show what one can create using the clay form of this metal. The fact that silver and polymer clay can be combined to make some unusual and striking projects gives this book an extra dimension.
   The Gallery section is truly a feast for the eye, not only for polymer clay aficionados, but for anyone who appreciates beautiful and creative art work.
   Well organized and edited, with the help I'm sure of Liva McRee, this is one of those must have books for just about anyone.



4. Its broad spectrum is what makes this polymer clay book exciting. As the title suggests, the projects included in the book explore a wide range of techniques and materials. The first section delves into the construction of some very handsome projects using polymer clay. Georgia Sargeant has selected an excellent variety of items that will appeal to most everyone. The instructions are clear and the photographs stunning. I especially like the fact that she has included variations for each of the techniques.
   The second section of the book explores the basics of using silver clay as well as some more detailed projects. Celie Fago is renowned for her work with silver and this book gives her a chance to show what one can create using the clay form of this metal. The fact that silver and polymer clay can be combined to make some unusual and striking projects gives this book an extra dimension.
   The Gallery section is truly a feast for the eye, not only for polymer clay aficionados, but for anyone who appreciates beautiful and creative art work.
   Well organized and edited, with the help I'm sure of Liva McRee, this is one of those must have books for just about anyone.