5 comments about Jewelry: Fundamentals of Metalsmithing (Jewelry Crafts).

1. Excellent book. I am just starting to make jewelry. I am taking a class. Reading the information in this book helped me in my class to understand why you do what and the techniques to do things better. I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn how to work with metal.



2. This book is great to review the basics of various techniques without too much fluff. Nicely organized, laid out and illustrated, and written well. I am learning metalsmithing, and it was very helpful in reviewing and complementing the techniques I've learned, and gave me some new ideas too.



3. I truly wish I would have purchased "The Complete Metalsmith" by T. McCreight FIRST and possibly this book second as an inspiration/idea/picture book of metal art possibilities. Now don't get me wrong, there is a lot of useful information throughout the book, in between the incredible metal art, and he does cover some of the safety issues in one of the appendices that pleases me. Another sticking point for me is that the details are sketchy in many of the metal application processes in this book. Yes, this book was published years before "The Complete Metalsmith"...so now consider that book over this one for a more thorough review, incredible details, abundant information, great charts and tables with even more easily readable data, and so much more if you want to really get a grasp of metalwork even for beginners. I refer to "The Complete Metalsmith" frequently as it is organized in a fashion that appeals to me along with the spiral binding that keeps the page open when I need to glance at it during my work.......However, do not expect WOW images of metal art in this book. "Jewelry-Fundamentals of Metalsmithing" brings to light artists' work in beautiful photographed images. Many stimulate my brain in ways so I can create my own designs. Therefore, don't rule this book out...or at least get this book for the inspiration. You won't be disappointed.



4. Interesting subject and very well presented.
   Will be used by me as my reference guide for new area of endeavor I am beginning.



5. I would like to begin by also suggesting The Complete Metalsmith by the same author. There have been several comments regarding the lack of step-by-step projects. Many other books have them, and it's nice for a visual reference I suppose, but it also leads to a lack of creativity on the part of many readers as they will just go through the entire book reproducing the projects laid out for them as opposed to using them as a jumping off point. In my opinion, the author intentionally left out the step-by-step projects to allow and encourage free thinking by the reader. Assuming this book is going to be used by artists, or people marketing themselves as artisans would dictate that they have their own creativity and artistic vision- which is not following a set of instructions to complete a particular project for production. Generally, people reading this book have their own ideas they would like to see come to fruition and would like to know the technique(s) to get to that point. So, again in my opinion, the lack of projects is great as it keeps 100's of the same piece from showing up at local craftshows and online as an "xyz original" when it is really a reproduction of a magazine or book piece. Now, please do not misunderstand my words and think that recreating an article piece is somehow derogatory. My point is many people then try to pass it off as their own original work, which is a slap in the face to any artist- again my opinion. I think this is a wonderful book and it serves its purpose. Mr. McCrieght's teaching experience shines through in his style and it is very clear.

5 comments about Miniature Food Masterclass: Materials and Techniques for Model-Makers.

1. Angie Scarr is an inspirational artesian who is passionate about modeling culinary art with polymer clay techniques in miniature. Her book is definatley a must have for any serious miniaturist who wants to add that special touch.



2. I can't wait to get stuck in and make some of these tiny treats. It all looks so easy to make - I am impressed by the simple but detailed instructions.



3. I own Angie Scarr's first book too, and prefer the first one to the 2nd one. The 2nd one feels a little rushed, and feels like as much data was crammed in there as possible, so the step by step tutorials aren't as thorough. Overall, though if you already have experience with canning it's a great resource and inspiration. It might just be a little tough for beginners to follow along.



4. This book has the most original, fabulously illustrated photos and how to's. Love it!
   You will too!
   Kellie



5. I was really impressed with the photographs and step-by-step instructions in this book. I've never worked with polymer clay before and felt that this book was very clearly written and easy to understand. Highly recommend it!!

5 comments about How to Make Clay Characters.

1. My daughter loves polymer clay and my wife saw this book so she told my daughter about it. My daughter got so excited she couldn't wait to order it. When we got the book, it was in excellent shape. Maureen Carlson is a awesome sculptor and my daughter said she does not know how Maureen created those realistic faces even though there are steps for it!



2. Maureen is such an amazing artist. If you are wanting to make figures in clay, then her books are a great place to start. I have several of her books now, and I love them all. Each one teaches you something more. Also this book came in great condition for a used book. Really good seller.



3. How to make clay characters by Maureen Carlson is not available to buy in Australia. I had it on loan from my local library but only for limited periods and it was never long enough. I am happy to say that although it may have been printed initially a long time ago I am delighted to have obtained it as it has such excellent instructions and lots of handy hints for the polymer clay first timer onwards.To anyone reading this revue who wants another hobby to try (even in Australia) buy this book and you will be hooked.
   
   The mere fact that it is still in print is a sign of how good it is for any age. Easy to follow and great fun all you need is polymer clay your imagination and this book.



4. I have four of Maureen Carlson's books. They are all fantastic.
   This one is my favorite. Very clear instruction. Gets you started and wanting to sculpt all the time. I love it!



5. Indeed a marvellous book you should have as one of your clay-book collections. Maureen has good eyes and different angles when seeing new things, and new thoughts to convert them into brilliant figurines. I love her ideas of how making the snakes and the dragons, and her tricks to get new color mixtures are awesome.
   
   I almost bought her books entirely, and have no regrets so far. Thanks to Amazon for superb service, even though I must bear waiting for a month and so for my orders.
   
   My advice, you always can give your book collections to your kids when you no longer need them.

5 comments about Magnificent Miniatures: Inspiration and Technique for Grand Houses on a Small Scale.

1. this book is magnificient, as mentioned in the title.
   Two knoledgeable artists are sharig their secrets.
   I got many inspirations....



2. When this book arrived, I didn't actually pick it up and take a look until a couple of days later...and then I stayed up all night reading over it and looking at the gorgeous pictures! I couldn't put it down!! The author's really do take the art of miniatures to a higher level! Their work is so finely detailed, I have a hard time believing these are even done in miniature. If it weren't for the 'fruit and tea cups', one would think the photos are actually interiors of the real homes...er, palaces...they were duplicating! In fact, in my opinion, it's actually the fruit and tea cups...and let us not forget about the egg...that look as if they are the reproduced pieces dropped into the rooms on a much larger scale. Truly, these houses are exquisite, and the artists who made them are the most talented I have ever seen. The painstaking attention they have put into every room is quite apparant. And I love the fact that they give you some 'how-to' information for those of us who wouldn't know where to begin, otherwise. As a newbie miniaturist, and wanting to make my first house as true-to-life as possible, I received many wonderful tips and ideas to achieve my goals. In fact, the parquet floor pattern and instructions they included for their model of Versaille is exactly what I am going to do in my own dollhouse! I have already ordered the wood and can't wait for it to arrive!! Thank you for sharing your inspiring work, Kevin Mulvany & Susie Rogers! While I can't expect to ever achieve your level of mastery...it certainly makes me want to try!



3. As a long-time collector and miniature craftsman, my collection of books on miniaturiana is extensive, so I think twice or three times before adding another volume. Thank goodness I was tempted by Mulvany's reputation, and purchased this! I saved it to read on a flight to South Florida, and in flight happened upon a reference in the book's wonderful bibliography to the effect that several of these incredible rooms were currently on loan to the Naples (Florida) Museum of Art. Went the next day, and the exhibit was breathtaking. But the photography in this book is so clear, so well-staged, that one can actually see more details in the photos than from the actual exhibit. The quality of the paperstock and the photography make it worth twice its cost. An added bonus is that within each chapter, Mulvany presents a do-able high-quality project.



4. This will be a valuable reference book when desigining and creating my miniature rooms. Beautiful color pictures.



5. This book is magical!! What the two authors have achieved in this field is astounding and so inspirational that you'll want to get involved in collecting your own miniatures. Although nothing quite so grand as those depicted in "Magnificent Miniatures". Breathtaking commissions that you will find difficult to accept as being only 1/12th in scale. You will believe you are looking at the actual Grand Houses. A superb book in every way. Treat yourself!!

5 comments about Making Miniature Food and Market Stalls.

1. Although I like the detail this book shows, it is not my favorite. I t not only looks old fashioned, but is geared more towards foods from the UK. We don't generally have tarts, black pudding and pork pies. I guess I should have looked more into it. Just not current and relevant enough for me.



2. This is great for the polymer clay novice who likes to make miniatures. The simple methods and 'tools' found in the average home make it easy to duplicate Angie's finished products. There are only a few tools that need to be purchased from a craft store ,but even those can be improvised in a pinch for someone (like me) who doesn't have a big hobby budget. I particularly like the cakes and pastries but enjoyed making the fresh veggies and fruits ,too.
   For budget minded folks, you get very good instructions and lots of fun projects for a reasonable price. Great way to spend a rainy day and add to your dollhouse or miniatures collection.



3. This book is fun and well done. It shows tons of photos and a good step by step procedure to make all kinds of miniature food. This book is fun for kids and adults. The products are very real looking and can be used along with other crafts or for "Barbie Food" I was very pleased with this book and would highly recommend it to others.



4. I've been able to read newspapers since I was three, and this is one of my all-time favorite books, right beside childhood books like "The Mouse and the Motorcycle," "A bargain for Francis," and as a grown-up, Robert Bloch's "Psycho," (yes, where the movie came from--brilliant writing!!!)...Just flipping through this book is a complete rush.
   
   However, be fully ready to be buying a GREAT deal of polymer clay at $1.00 for the sucky, cheap kind (the colors aren't quite right, black is more grey, red is pink, so on) to $2.50 for the good stuff--PER PACKAGE. Skip it if you can't see the color through the plastic.
   
   If you can find this through the library, you'll see what I mean; there's lots of colors involved for most things. Also, buy 2x as much translucent, you'll be using it for nearly everything. It gives the food a very lifelike sort of look. Less "clay-like," if you will.
   
   Also, if you have a sensitive nose or asthma, please be aware this stuff stinks a bit while baking--I like a lot of air doing this and you can't place the unbaked clay on anything you eventually plan to eat on--use the backs of your cutting boards/baking sheets, and so on. I bake it at 250 degrees and I'm careful NOT to burn it--it's VERY toxic if you do; it says on some of the packages. It goes w/o saying that you want tight, surgical gloves to play with this stuff if you can find them--whatever you can't eat by proxy, you probably don't want on your skin; and eventually into your bloodstream. Gloves also help keep the clay clean; hard to do otherwise.
   
   For very small things, you can spray them with railroad hobby "Scenic Glue." It makes stuff shiny like varnish, AND it stays sticky, so tiny stuff won't roll onto the floor, never to be seen again. Also had good luck with spray varnish for tomatoes, which of course, dries glass-like and non-sticky.
   
   A very exciting book!! You'll love it. Seriously looking forward to her next book coming soon!



5. I am an experienced miniaturist of many years, and I checked this book out at the public library first to see if I wanted to get it. I thought it was fantastic, so I bought it from Amazon. These foods are largely universal although the Englishness of a couple of them is interesting, like the pork pie. I appreciated the instructions on how to do polymer clay seafood (where else can you find directions on how to make a fish skeleton with a fishhead attached??), and I also liked the instructions on how to make mini dishware to go with the foods.

5 comments about Little Bead Boxes: 12 Miniature Containers Built with Beads.

1. This is a wonderful book. The instructions aren't too had to follow for a beginner to intermediate beginner. I purchased this book to make Christmas presents and I'm sure I won't be disappointed!



2. As usual I read a lot of review before I brought this book. I really love it. It is so easy to follow the pictures are clear. However if you are a new to bead work, read through the instructions before you start. It will help to reduce the frustration.



3. From the first project I was addicted. Wonderful patterns that become easier to recreate with practice. Steps given (if new to beading boxes or beading.)are a little confusing at first, but results for effort are super rewarding. Just love all the designs and all Julia's books.



4. The instructions appear to be well written and the pictures are very clear. Have not had a chance to do any of the projects as yet.



5. Your patience will definitely pay off with these little projects. It was really helpful to read over this book carefully before you bead your first box. I'm on my third beaded box. They are just beautiful and are a very satisfying project to make. People are absolutely amazed when they see them.

No comments about Inchies: Create Miniature Works of Art Using Textiles and Mixed Media Techniques.

5 comments about Lionel Accessories at Work on Toy Train Layouts (Classic Toy Trains Books).

1. This is a nice and very useful guide to Lionel postwar addicted.
   Nice illustrations and very comprehensive texts.
   A must for the Lionel fans.



2. This book is handy for fixing and maintaining Lionel accessories. It has pictures showing the most popular accessories. My favorite is the Milk Car!



3. I was looking forward to this book with great expectations, and in general I wasn't disapointed. Some acessories were given deeper treatment than others, but the explanations given were clear and concise. I hope that there will be a volume 2 that will cover even more PW and modern acessories. Thanks, Ken



4. This is a great book if your looking for information on old Lionel accessories. It has very good photos and illustrations of each of the accessories and instructions on repair and maintenance of common problems. The author has done an excellent job with these accessories. If your looking for the more modern Lionel products this is not the book.



5. This is a great book if you are interested in Lionel train operating accessories. It describes most of the popular accessories and how to repair and service them. Great color pictures and even a price guide for each accessory. I have read this book from cover to cover and still refer to it quite often.
   
   The only thing missing is advice on whether or not to upgrade an accessory to TMCC control for better performance.

5 comments about Making Furniture & Dollhouses for American Girl and Other 18-Inch Dolls.

1. The accessories in the book were very nice - but the instructions are mostly word based and the pictures are not step by step. The "house" portion of the book is lacking - sure it gives some good information on houses, but leaves you to design it yourself. The only thing in the book on "dollhouses" is the small one room one story house that you see on the cover. I will get some good use from this book, and I might even be able to sell some of the items online after making them, but overall I was disappointed with this book. --TODDL



2. the book has lots o f nice plans, most have patterns that are to scale, a couple of the bigger patterns have to be enlarged which cannot be easily done at home i took it to staples and it cost me about $8.00,it would br nice if for these plans it had a fold out full size pattern for these pieces.
   
   I also found out tha Lowes caries a lot of the smaller size boards in several species which saves a lot of time cutting 3/4" boards down.
   
   All and all this book is well worth the money,I am in the process of building my daughter the bunk bed for her dolls for Christmas.



3. Haven't built anything yet but the book looks very good. I like the drawings.
   I am barely a novice...I bought Woodworking for Dummies also.



4. My husband and I can't wait to start building furniture for the 18" dolls. He really enjoyes working with wood.



5. This book had several good furniture designs for beds, chests, bookcases, etc. However the assembly instructions were very hard to follow. It could really use an assembly drawing to illustrate how each piece of furniture goes together. You should also be aware that you will need a pretty good assortment of tools to cut and assemble the parts. It would be nice if there were a list of recommended tools. This was not a problem for me, but it could be if you are not a woodworker. Also, check the measurements as I found several incorrect measurements in the book.

5 comments about The Doll's Dressmaker: The Complete Pattern Book.

1. Orderd doll book and service was great. Easy to order and recieved in a timley manner. very happy with this transaction.



2. I'm so glad to have my own copy of this book. When I was a little girl, around 7 years old, I checked this book out from the library, and from it made a pair of doll shoes out of scraps of fabric and cardboard and glue. My mom still has those shoes to this very day. It's true that this book doesn't include step by step instructions on making specific dresses. It's made more to inspire your imagination and creativity and to give certain skills to help you accomplish that. It also tells how you can alter the patterns to fit the type of dolls that you are trying to fit, such as altering the neck line and the arm holes, etc. I love the pictures. You could spend hours looking at them. This book is a great one to have in your collection.



3. I love this book. I found the book to be well organized, easy to understand and easy to adjust the pattern to any doll I wanted to sew for. Today, with the home printers it is so easy to decrease and increase the size of the patterns. Basic sewing and fitting skills are a must to use this book and it is not a sew by number book like the big 4 pattern companies. The book also explains how to make adorable little dresses to fit any doll without a pattern. My doll outfits using this book are wonderful.



4. The book was recommended to me by doll enthusiasts. It is wonderful, there are patterns for reproduction and modern dolls. You can add your touch if you wish. I highly recommend it.



5. I use to draw the instructional sewing diagrams for 3 well know pattern companies. I know how to sew very well and I have to say that this book is very hard to follow. It is frustrating trying to find the actual pattern that goes with the beautiful dress in the photo. It's confusing and step by step instructions just don't exist. It seems to be written by someone who knows how to sew well but has no idea how to teach.
   It is basically a pretty picture book.
   I don't have the time or patience to go on a scavenger hunt through the book to find the separate patterns to piece together an actual outfit. Do yourself a big favor and pass this book by!