Sunday 29 July 2012

The Crafter’s Way 237–Craft Book Review

These books all came from the North Lakes’ Pathways Library. This selection of books will tempt even the most time challenged fibre artist to start another project.

surface workshop

Surface Treatment Workshop (745.5MCEL) by Darlene Olivia McElroy & Sandra Duran Wilson. If you like your craft books to be project based then this book is not for you. Containing 45 techniques suitable for fabric, paper and canvas you will want to clear the decks and have an artistic play date. The techniques have been broken down into 3 categories; Additive, Resist and Subtractive or Combination. The authors have tried for the most part to use readily available materials; any we can’t source here in Australia can be substituted. Each technique comes with fully illustrated instructions, tips, variations and troubleshooting guide. The gallery pages will have you rushing to use your new found techniques in your next project.

fabric books

The Art of Fabric Books (746SMI) by Jan Bodee Smiley. Once you’ve mastered the above techniques you will want to start incorporating them into something special. This book will get you started. As above this book is also divided into 3 categories; Techniques (different to above), Book Construction and Gallery. The instructions for the projects are clearly written and easy to follow. The Author encourages the Reader to use the techniques as a starting place and to add their own personal touches and style.

paper jwellery

The Art of Jewelry – Paper Jewelry (745.594LEV) by Marthe Le Van Yes, you read that right, Paper Jewelry. The projects in this book make my paper beads look sad. The projects range from simple to intricate, elegant to funky. The photo on the front cover is surprising easy to make yet its elegant geometry will have you fielding endless compliments. Nobody will believe it has been made from vellum. The Gallery pages will leave you wondering, “how did they do that?”

fibres

Fibres (677 KNA) While not strictly a craft book, I found it in the Science Section, I found it infinitely interesting. Understanding the science of the materials and products I use is important to me. Rather than restricting my practice it opens up my options as I understand what rules I can break safely. Even if you have only ever wondered in passing “why does wool felt yet cotton doesn’t?” you will enjoy this book. It is an easy read with simple diagrams. Perfect as an introduction to the science of fibres.

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