5 comments about Charmed Bracelets.

1. I loved this adorable little book, and you will too. It is written with charm (pun?) and wit and made me smile lots of times. The pictures are beautiful and will inspire you to want even more charms than you already have. Definitely buy it if you are at all interested in charm bracelets.



2. This is a nice picture book and fun to look through but when it comes to putting together charm bracelets the suggestion is to take it to a jeweler. Charm bracelet collectors, buy this book. Charm bracelet makers, look elsewhere.



3. Yes, this book about charms is, well, charming! If you like jewelry, themed or not, you'll like this book. I was smiling as i looked through it, and I make themed charm bracelets myself, so it was fun to see what other people have done over the years. So many charms, so little time!



4. If you have ever had a charm bracelet, currently collect charms, or have ever wanted to start a collection - this book is for you! The ideas, history, and photos of the bracelets are all wonderful. It inspired me to clean up my old charm bracelets and, along with my current one, put them on display. They are works of art that tell a story. This book is also a great gift. It has inspired those I've given it to as it inspired me.



5. I was browsing one day at the Gardner in Berkeley, CA and saw this book. I bought it for a friend and it was so fun that we decided to start charm bracelets of our own. The fever caught on and now there is a group of us that are trading and swapping stories. My bracelet is becoming my history and its great to watch it evolve.
   
   The book is beautifully designed and written.

5 comments about Costume Jewelry: A Practical Handbook & Value Guide.

1. This book has a wealth of good information and is well arranged. I use it a lot. My only wish is that the pictures of the jewelry had been photographed on much lighter backgrounds as the black just sucks the sparkle out of the jewelry.



2. I was very pleased with this book!! It covered many jewelry manufacturers that had not been mentioned in any other books. It's very useful to me. I sell vintage, high-quality costume jewelry. The only draw-back, and it is small, is that some of the black jewelry doesn't show as well as it would have on a lighter background. Great Job!!!
   Laura
   City Scavenger Vintage



3. Of all my jewelry reference books I own, I use this one the most. It has a wide range, good photos, practical information on the manufacture. I wish I could find one like it with current prices. It's great!



4. This book is one of the bes t for covering the different makers and I especially enjoyed the charts and guidelines for buyers.



5. This book provides a short introductory section on cleaning buying selling etc and then write ups on different jewelry companies. The introduction is good for people with little information about caring for jewelry: displaying, cleaning, storing and repairing. It is sometimes humorous, as when Rezazadeh describes the meticulous procedure he goes through to clean his jewelry and then recalls discovering that his wife cleaned her jewelry by scrubbing it with a tooth brush and then blow drying it. There is also a bit about apraising and the supply and demand at work. I doubt that this is a book for dealers, because they presumably already have good resources and knowledge.
   
   The body of the book has short entries on different jewelry companies. About a page is dedicated to each, but there are sometimes two to a page and sometimes four or five pages to a widely spread company. Each company gets a short write up and photo of some jewelry pieces. The photos are good, but obviously not full page. They are enough to oo and ah over. Each photo has a caption describing the jewelry and giving an estimate for price it would cost. Companies are grouped into European and imported depending on where they were located. There are also sections on unmarked jewelry. These are grouped by how they are made (enamel, Austrian crystal, plastic, etc.). Since there is no company these sections have more pictures to text.
   
   If you are into vintage including jewelry then this could be a fun book. Also if you design jewelry then the multitude of pictures here can be a good resource for ideas and inspiration. The pictures are the highlight of this book.

No comments about Antique Trader Collectible Paperback Price Guide (Antique Trader).

5 comments about The Star Wars Action Figure Archive.

1. This is the best Star Wars action figure guide ever published, period. I have been collecting STar Wars figures since 1977 and like this book so much that I have bought multiple copies so that I could take one apart and use with my binder in which I track my collection. Beautiful graphics and well organized. Do not buy this if you expecting a price guide though. My only wish is that Stephen Sansweet would create a second volume, continuing where he left off.



2. This book is a super resource for it has a lot of glossy pics which are highly detailed of the Star Wars, Empire Strikes Back, Returo of the Jedi and Power of the Force Action Figures as well as Star Wars Action Playsets and Spaceships. It is well worth the money and is easily divided into many sections.
   
   I use it all the time to find Vintage Star Wars items for gifts for Star Wars collectors. I strongly recommend it if you collect Star Wars or are going to in the future. I bought my book from Amazon and also, it is a great gift for any one who loves Star Wars.



3. I first purchased this book on another site in California. The book is on one island in Hawaii and I am on another island in Hawaii. So, I bought another one through Amazon. It is a wonderful source of information. I did however notice that there are some items of significant value and/or rarity that are not included. One such item is the Special Action Display that recently sold online for close to one thousand dollars. Perhaps the author of the book did not have the informamtion available at the time of publication.
   
   The first Star Wars Vintage Mailaway Display 1979
   
   The Star Wars Action Display Stand was first offered through a coupon redemption included with the first four (4) Early Bird Kit Action Figures:
   
   Luke Skywalker with Yellow Telescoping Lightsaber (very rare)
   
   Princess Leia Organa with White Vinyl Cape & Laser Pistol
   
   Chewbacca with Green Crossbow
   
   R2-D2
   
   The second time that it was offered on the back of Star Wars Action Figure Cardbacks. The offer stated:
   
   Star Wars Action Collectors Stand
   
   Display all 12 figures on this colorful galaxy stand. Sturdy plastic with action levers to move figures back and forth. Figures easily removeable for individual play. Send your name, address, zip code and proof-of-purchase seal (shown at right) from 2 Star Wars Action Figure packages alone with $2.00 to: Star Wars Action Collector Stand, P.O. Box 1313, One Industrial Drive, Maple Plain, MINN, 55348. Collectors Action Stand FREE with proof-or purchase from 12 STAR WARS Action Figures. Allow 8 - 10 weeks for delivery. Offer expires May, 1, 1979. Void where prohibited, taxed or otherwise regulated The third time it was offered boxed in toy departments and stores. The Stand came in a attractive box which showed all of the twelve (12) Action Figures that could be placed on it. The box that was shipped to individuals was just a plain white mailer.
   
   The Grey Display Stand came with a slot in the back of it for the cardboard backdrop which depicted the Death Star and a Space Battle between X-Wing Fighters & Tie Fighters. A thin adhesive strip was included for the front of the stand which instructed kids where to place their first twelve (12) figures:
   
   Stormtrooper
   
   Jawa
   
   Death Squad Commander
   
   See Threepio
   
   Darth Vader
   
   Ben Kenobi
   
   Sandpeople
   
   Luke Skywalker
   
   Chewbacca
   
   Han Solo
   
   Princess Leia
   
   Artoo Deetoo
   
   As for the promised action, each of the three (3) black levers in front turned the bases of the four (4) figures giving them at least limited movement. Each base had two (2) foot pegs to hold the Action Figures in place. I had a lot of fun putting my Stand together along with my older brother. The parts included in the box reminded us of Legos. Be sure to check out my other Reviews in regards to rare Vintage Star Wars action figures. One can still find this item either loose or still in the original box.
   
   The Special Action Display is the one rare item which is not covered in the book much to my amazement. The Star Wars Empire Strikes Back Special Action Display had the same thin black strip that one could place on the front with the exception that there were only the names of six characters on it which were:
   
   Luke Skywalker
   
   Princess Leia Organa
   
   Lando Calrissian
   
   Boosk the Bounty Hunter
   
   Stormtrooper
   
   FX-7 Medical Droid
   
   This item is very rare indeed and ranges in the $1,000.00 + range.
   
   
   I have studied the book intensively and find it useful. I am a collector of Star Wars items and find the Action Figures a wonderful way of reliving my youthful days and memories of Star Wars when they first appeared in the late 1970's. I cannot post my web address here but if you do a search on darthoz, one can find me on the internet. I do believe in sharing information. Amazon is a excellent resource to find items.
   
   darthoz november 2005



4. John Ling and Steve Sansweet have outdone themselves. Being a fan and collector of the films and memorabilia of Star Wars for over 26 years, I was impressed by the attention to detail that was paid in this book. Or, as Darth Vader would say, "Impressive...most impressive." My area of collecting lies mainly with carded figures and this book has it all. I was also wowed by the many never before seen deleted scene images from the films that are showcased throughout this book. Too bad this book isn't in print anymore, but good for me I was able to get a copy!



5. The best part is that this is a REFERENCE BOOK, not a price guide. Thus, it contains tons of TIMELESS information, but no bogus or outdated prices. I recently ordered and read seven price guides and reference books dealing with vintage Star Wars figures (and numerous other collectible figures), and this is by far the best of the bunch. It shows a picture of every vintage figure from numerous angles, it shows numerous figure variations, it shows EVERY card variations for EVERY figure, and it identifies the weapons and accessories that originally came with each figure. It also shows all vintage play sets and mail in promotions (though unfortunately it does not provide quite as much information about these). It also does a nice job covering early POTF figures, and more recent figures from the mid to late 90s. And, EVERYTHING IS IN FULL COLOR ON HIGH QUALITY PAPER! If you're looking for a price guide, this is not the book for you. But, if you are looking for an outstanding reference book dealing with vintage Star Wars action figures, you will not be disappointed with this book. In fact, I actually ordered a second copy for myself in case my first one gets damaged with use!

1 comments about The Story of Imari: The Symbols and Mysteries of Antique Japanese Porcelain.

1. Professor Goro Shimura, one of the greatest mathematicians of our day, has written a wonderful book about something well outside of mathematics: an aspect of Japanese culture that should be of great interest for anyone interested in Japanese civilization. I congratulate him for writing so eloquently outside the field of mathematics and for showing his sincere passion for an art form that is unique to historic Japan and its tradition. This book will enlighten and delight any reader with interest in Japan, in fine porcelain, and in ancient traditions.

5 comments about Kovels' Antiques & Collectibles Price List, 39th Edition, 2007 (Kovels' Antiques and Collectibles Price List).

1. This is and has been a standard in the antiques price guide field for years. While not as exciting a format as Schroeder's or Antique Trader's Guides, Kovels' is a basic value guide useful to compare prices found in other guides. Also, Kovel's lists some popular collectibles not easily found elsewhere.



2. The last two Kovels' I purchased were the 1996 and 1998 editions. The 2007 edition in no way compares to the "older" ones; information is not as easy to find, is "scattered," and not as meaningful. The older editions seemed more comprehensive and informative, in a similar-sized book.



3. Although this book had a lot of information to offer,I found it quite hard to find things under certain category's. For instance, I was trying to find a price for a plastic bank. First I checked banks,had many kinds listed,plastic,mechanical,etc but I couldn't find the one I had. I checked the index and found banks listed on about 20 different pages under different materials,eras,made by etc...way to confusing for us regular folk who just want to see if they've found a bargin or own something of great value.Unless you are an advid Antique Collector,I wouldn't recommend this book.



4. Bought this book for my wife who is into "junk." As anyone in the collecting business already knows, Kovels' is the bible. I am sure my wife will get a few years of enjoyment from this publication.



5. This book keeps antiquers up to date with the latest in hot finds. My step-father uses it as a guide to what to look for when he scouts the local auctions.

5 comments about 59 Authentic Turn-of-the-Century Fashion Patterns.

1. As the book's name suggests, it has patterns from the "turn of the century". More specifically, from 1890 to 1896.
   
   The first three pages run over how to graph out a pattern, take your measurements, and adjust the pattern to fit. Basic knowledge of sewing, and a familiarity with patterns is a must. Or at the very least, you need to be a daring new sewer that isn't intimidated by challenges. The instructions are informative but brief.
   
   Each pattern has a fashion etching in black and white to illustrate the design it's based on. The etching shows trims and accessories. There is a diagram for each style that lays out all the pattern pieces needed to create it. All the measurements are listed in inches. They are clear and easy to read.
   
   There are 31 womens patterns : included are numerous sleeve layouts like two part coat, leg-o-mutton, 2 part leg-o-mutton, different fullnesses of sleeve. Several styles of skirt, one draped like the previous bustle decade, mostly three or five gore skirts, umbrella skirt. There are different collar styles, bodices cut in both princess and darted. A cape and coat pattern, etc. There is one nightgown pattern.
   
   There are 21 misses and girls costumes. They cover the same span of years. There are dresses appropriate to very small children up to teens. There is one evening dress pattern for a girl of about 5-9. There is also one pattern for drawers and one for a chemise.
   
   There are two patterns for boys. Mainly young boys. One is a pants suit, so i assume that would be for post diaper age. The other is a kilt costume.
   
   There are three mens patterns. One nightshirt, dressing gown and coat. There is no picture of the coat.
   
   My count brings me to 57 patterns, I must have missed a couple somewhere. But hopefully this will give you a good idea of the book contents. I have made some of the dresses from this book. The patterns work out well, however to create a truly period looking garment you need more information than what this book gives you. The construction techniques and trimming methods are quite different from how most basic sewing is done today. It would help the beginner to have some hands on exposure to actual period garments. Mostly to see how they are lined, interlined, stiffened, boned, etc. In my experience, it is the linings and foundations that give the finished product it's form. The outer image of the costume is merely floating on that foundation. This book does not cover foundations sewing techniques at all. But with some hands on antique garment experience, you could easily create an authentic looking dress from this book.



2. I liked this book because it showed many different styles of dress for women and children in the victorian age. I make victorian costumes and it now refer to it for ideas on how to make all my costumes a little different from each other. Also shows coats and many childrens clothes which are also helpful. Most of the dresses have leg of mutton sleeves but each is a variation.



3. It only covers a few years of fashion, but if what you're looking for are patterns for women's and girl's fashions from 1890-1896, this may help you. But do note, it doesn't actually have any patterns later than 1896.



4. Great book. Thank you!



5. I've been looking for a book with some illustrations of how women dressed in the 1800's. This book give its reader a number of illustrations and patterns where a crafty person, or a person with some seamstress knowledge, could create an outfit by enlarging the patterns and selecting materials that might have been used during those days. Takes a little doing, but can be done. Lots of puffy sleeved dresses and some beautiful coat patterns.

5 comments about McCoy Pottery: Reference & Value Guide (McCoy Pottery: Collector's Reference & Value Guide).

1. This book has many nicely done photos and includes brief information concerning the individual pieces. A good thumbnail guide to McCoy pottery. I would however recommend that you purchase volums #1 & 2, unless you are well versed in McCoy, before you buy this one. I am a beginner when it comes to McCoy and I was looking for more history then I found in this volume.



2. The book had the information that I was wanting and much more. I recommend this to anyone who is interesting in collecting pottery or who is interested in being able to recognize valuable pottery pieces for resale.



3. A must have book for any true Mccoy collector. A lot of true Mccoy out there that is not marked Mccoy and the opposite which is not the real Mccoy.



4. While the book has beautiful photos, it is hard to use as a reference. Unless you know what the piece is exactly it is very difficult to locate in the book.



5. The authors are fitting and devoted source whose familiarity and love about McCoy Pottery shine through. Every collector of McCoy Pottery should and MUST have this book. This book is aimed at all levels of collectors. It has the wealth of information needed to help beginners make sense of things that may initially seem confusing. With its color photographs, lists prices, and careful organization this book will be of use to collectors and buyers in need of a general pricing guide. In light of the fact that there are so few books on McCoy Pottery I am grateful to the authors for their effort and dedication. Thank you!

3 comments about Lanterns That Lit Our World: Old Railroad, Marine, Fire, Carriage, Farm & Other Lanterns (Book 2).

1. Very well put together book. Well organized and written as to be informative and INTERESTING at the same time.



2. As Mr. Hobsons girlfriend I find it offencive that someone tried to use me to degrade his name. Tony researched this book for over 2 years. As a person that never knew anything about lanterns I found this book very informative. It was clearly written with pictures that made it very easy to identify lanterns in ones possession. Well done Tony.



3. i would like information as to where i can buy a wagonwheel light to hang from my new mountian home. they were popular in the 70's but now i cant seem to find anyone who carries them. please let me know.

1 comments about It's Happy Bunny Love and Revenge Voodoo Kit (It's Happy Bunny).

1. i got this for my two girls; ages 9 and 11. the 11 yr old thought it was hysterical. (it's a little stuffed bunny with pins to stick in it and a small "instruction" book). i'm not sure if my 9 yr old actually thought it would work, but also thought it was funny...(she's somewhat literal-minded)
   i think it would make a good gift for someone with a sense of humor and definitly not for anyone younger then 7 as it comes with it's own pins.