Tag: Book Review

Book Review: PUSH Jewelry

PUSH Jewelry: 30 Artists Explore the Boundaries of JewelryPUSH Jewelry: 30 Artists Explore the Boundaries of Jewelry by Marthe Le Van

This is a new book I got from Lark Crafts to review Tuesday and I have to say that I love this series. The last one I reviewed was PUSH Stitchery. I like the size, shape and feel of the books. I also like the edgy nature of the pieces they include. I probably wouldn’t make any of these pieces (not that there are patterns, because there aren’t), but I can definitely get inspired from looking at them. They are really different from things that I normally look at and looking at new stuff always fires my brain.

I have to admit that the linear part of my brain was in charge when I started looking at this book. I thought that many of the pieces were quite ridiculous, but then I started look at them in terms of creativity, shape, form and some of the other design elements and principles we have been exploring in the Design Series. I kicked the linear part of my brain to the curb and started thinking about them in terms of originality and WOW factor.

The books in the PUSH series highlight several artists and give a few pages to each artist, so the reader can see more than one work by each contributor. This part of the series includes 30 artists. Each section includes a picture of the artist and a selection of their work as well as an artist statement in Q&A format.

This book has really interesting forms. Many of the pieces are quite sculptural.

Some of the pieces I really like:

  • Li-Chu Wu, of the UK, has a piece that looks like a sea urchin.
  • Allyson Bone, of the US, shows some necklaces that look like cat eye glasses or masks.
  • Joe Wood’s pieces, also of the US, are quite sculptural and would be appropriate 50 times larger and installed at the SFMOMA.
  • Dr. Tina De Ruysser, UK, has some very interesting folded paper necklaces.
  • Mirjam Hiller, Germany. She has feathery, layered pieces. Some of my recent CPP responses have had feathers and I see myself gravitating to those shapes and layers.

These pieces really push all sorts of the boundaries and even the display photographs are provocative. Many of the pieces are large. There are a number of the pieces that do not fit my definition of delicate or pretty. The artists use interesting and unusual materials as well: acrylic, dollars and Euros, fur, rubber, and porcelain, to name a few. The processes used to create the works are equally as interesting: folding stainless steel, adding powder coats, a process like origami, if it isn’t origami along with normal jewelry techniques such as stone setting and metalsmithing.

I think that you would get a lot of inspiration from this book and wouldn’t be sorry if you took a look.

Arthur Hash curated the book.

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Book Review: Shrink! Shrank! Shrunk!

Shrink! Shrank! Shrunk!: Make Stylish Shrink Plastic JewelryShrink! Shrank! Shrunk!: Make Stylish Shrink Plastic Jewelry by Kathy Sheldon

I have to admit that I was kind of shocked when I opened the package that held this book. My immediate thought was Shrinky Dinks? Jewelry? Really?

I had some Shrinky Dinks as a kid, but not many. I think they must have been too expensive and, perhaps, messy. We made some shrink plastic Christmas ornaments a few years ago, but I don’t remember the circumstances. Apparently, Shrink plastic is back and you can wear what you make to work!

There are about 30 jewelry projects in this book and they are quite interesting. They range from earrings and necklaces to cameos! Remember those? The book starts off with a history of Shrink plastic filled introduction. My favorite part of the beginning of the book was the very funny “Shrink Plastic Basics” (pg.10). She gives the scientific name, which sounds scary, but has some potential for entertaining wordplay in it. She also reassures us about the safety aspects of the plastic.

Lark books all have comprehensive materials lists and this is no exception. This is a fun list, because you can use a lot of different art supplies to decorate your projects including and inkjet printer, colored pencils and rubber stamps! The same tools you used in your other jewelry making projects can be used here. There is also a lot of talk of sanding the plastic, which scares me a little bit.

The Basics section also covers decorating your project, using scrapbook punches and coloring the designs. Ms. Sheldon covers my anxiety of the pieces curling as well.

The projects start on page 27, so you know that the “how-to” section is quite substantial. The projects come from different artists and crafters as well as Ms. Sheldon. While most of the projects were not my style, I didn’t see any that I hated. I liked the colors and styling of the Mexican Oilcloth Necklace (pg.48-49) by Jalene Hernandez. The simple look of the Simple Circle Neclace (pg.52-53) was very appealing. I really liked the idea of the Not-Your-Grandmother’s Cameo (pg.57-59) project as well. There were a few 3D projects, which shows the flexibility of the materials.

There are templates and patterns in the back as well as short biographies of the project artists and (YAY!) and index.

This whole book – colors, page layouts, style- has a fun feel to it and that made it pleasant to read.

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Book Review: Necklaceology

Necklaceology: How to Make Chokers, Lariats, Ropes & MoreNecklaceology: How to Make Chokers, Lariats, Ropes & More by Candie Cooper

I like the name. It is interesting.

I like the cover. I can see the texture even though I can’t feel it.

I like the colors of the pages and variety of illustrations. The styling of the book is wonderful.

I like the interesting tools the author uses such as crochet hooks and clothespins.

The book is well illustrated with lots of little photographs sprinkled throughout. Even the table of contents is illustrated. Using this table of contents means that the reader gets an idea of what they will be looking at when they turn to the project page. I think this is one of the most entertaining tables of contents I have ever seen.

Like many of Lark’s books, the first section talks about materials and tools, types of beads, clasps, headpins and jump rings, as well as different types of chains. Non-metals are covered as well in the stringing materials section under ribbon & silk cording and yarn, hemp & nylon. It is nice to have options.

I really like the definitions of the lengths of chains. This is perfect to include in a book of necklaces and something that I have never seen. I have heard of opera-length, but never knew the exact length. I am now glad to know that an opera-length necklace is 28-34″ long. These are really good definitions. We all wear necklaces at some point and may have heard some of these terms, but the book spells them out for us.

Metal finishes, tools, adhesives and a brief section on abrasives and polishing compounds are also covered. Many of the techniques uses in the projects are covered in the ‘Techniques’ section. Lots of clear illustrations guide the reader through the words.

There are 40 projects in this book, which makes me think we quiltmakers are getting ripped off! 😉 I really like Roccoco Ribbon (pg.30-31), mostly because of the ribbon used, but also because of the color. Chronos (pg.32-34) also looks like a necklace I would wear. The beads in the Marie Antoinette (pg.) project really make that piece. I am not sure if those particular style of beads are prevalent, but the necklace would have to be re-imagined a bit if the beads are hard to find. I love the hot pink of those beads, though. The styles are so diverse among these projects that I think most people could find something they would enjoy making.

Many of the projects show variations, which is a great way to use the patterns/directions as jumping off points for your own creations.

Thanks to Lark Crafts for sending this book along. I appreciate your faith in my writing skills!

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Book Review: Making Fabric Jewelry

Making Fabric Jewelry: 20+ Projects to Stitch, Fold, & WearMaking Fabric Jewelry: 20+ Projects to Stitch, Fold, & Wear by Marthe Le Van

Thanks to Lark for sending me this book to review! Since the holidays are coming, and birthdays seem to pile up on me constantly, I thought this would be a good book to review.

As with many of Lark’s books, this is primarily a project book. There are about 23 projects included, which run the gamut from bracelets and earrings to wristlets, brooches and chokers. The book includes the basics, project templates, bios of the designers and (YAY!!!) an index.

In the book’s introduction, the author contends that there is a revolution in jewelry going on in the world and that “personal adornment is getting a makeover…” (pg.6). Part of this revolution has to do with recycling and reuse that is so popular now, but the cost of extracting and transporting precious metals and gems cannot be ignored either (pg.6). The introduction reminds the reader that there are techniques in the book that help veer away from the patterns and the muse speaks. I always like it when books are tools in a journey rather than just a pattern book to be accomplished.

A variety of techniques and skill levels are represented from no-sew to machine stitching, stuffing and quilting. Something for everyone!

The ‘Basics’ section gives some details on the qualities and characteristics of different kinds of fabrics including canvas, corduroy, silk, tulle and organza. There is some helpful information that might inspire quiltmakers to put some of these fabrics into quilts when they are done with their jewelry.
I liked the few paragraphs on needles. They were helpful and I learned a thing or two. Hand and machine stitching are covered. The basic hand stitches have illustrations showing the reader how to create them. As with many “basics” sections, not everything can be covered. Whole books on almost every topic in this section have been written. Still, this ‘Basics’ section has a good overview and will definitely get a person started.

You will need some metal for these projects. Clasps, earring findings, jump rings, etc are all covered: what they are, where to find them and whether you can make your own each have a place. After a few pages about tools, some fundamentals on metal, a list of supplies and two pages on beads, the projects start.

The book is well illustrated with color photos on nearly every page. the photos illustrate the text or give examples of jewelry by the artist-designers. The font is easy to read and the writing is clear.

Each project has instructions with illustrations. At the end of each project are a few photos of similar or related projects by which the reader can be inspired.

Tulle is used in an interesting way in the Floating Tulle Earrings project (pg.46-49). I like the pods in the Chrysalis Neckpiece (pg.54-57), but I imagine a mobile in brighter colors made from the pods. The flower int he Lotus Choker & Earrings project (pg.66-71) could easily be reimagined as a brooch, a hat pin, embellishments on a quilt or bag. change the color of the petals and the center and you have a completely new flower. Sun-Kissed Lemons (pg.112-117) is a lovely machine embroidered and satin stitched piece.

The materials are interesting, too. One project (Jennifer Halvorson’s Laced Up, 2005, pg.87, an example) uses shoelaces. Tweeds and plaid wool, recycled from men’s clothing is also used (pg.88-91)

I think there is an underlying sense of inspiration in this book that encourages, by implication, readers to move on quickly from the projects and only using them as a jumping off point.

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Book Review: Jelly Roll Quilt Magic

Jelly Roll Quilt MagicJelly Roll Quilt Magic by Kimberly Einmo

I bought this book after Katie, of Katie’s Quilting Corner blog and podcast, interviewed the author and enthusiastically endorsed the books. As you know, I have a love-hate relationship with Jelly Rolls, Layer Cakes, Turnovers, Honeybuns and the like. As cute as they are, I don’t have a stack of them decorating my workroom. Thus, this book is a bit of an odd duck for me to buy and review.
I really liked Katie’s interview with Kimberly Einmo. She sounds like such a nice person. She made Jelly Rolls and their cousins not seem like such a pain. The Introduction sets the tone of the book, which is friendly and fun, but not condescending. The book is written in the first person, so, perhaps, it seems like I am having a conversation with the author?
Einmo reminds us throughout the book that we can cut our own 2.5″ strips and use them for her designs as well.

She goes through the basics that you will need to make the experience successful. i was pleased to see her include “a place to sew” and “good lighting” and “a good chair.” Yes, we need fabric and rotary cutters, but as we get obsessed with quiltmaking good lighting and a good chair will help us keep at it. She refers back to a section in a previous book about quiltmaking basics, which I appreciate. I don’t need that section rehashed in every book. Thank you, Kimberly and AQS!

There is a brief history of pre-cuts, which includes a great chart detailing what each ‘baked good’ is. I didn’t know there were such a thing as Petit Fours (2.5″x2.5″ squares). The chart also includes the total yardage of the pre-cut bundle, which is handy.

The Get Set section includes tips for being successful with your pre-cut. Ms. Einmo shows how to make Flying Geese (you do need a special ruler). This is followed up by another chart on how to make and cut various common quiltmaking shapes and units. Yay! I love charts like this. There is also a discussion of grain, which is always helpful. I appreciated the tip on de-fuzzing the Jelly Rolls as that is one thing I detest about them.
Then, we are on to the ubiquitous projects required for each quilt book published these days. One of the things I like about the projects in this book is that they are not your normal quick piecing projects. They have interesting shapes and interesting overall looks. The colors she uses, which I know are variable depending on availability and year, are cheerful.

The first couple of projects use diamonds. I love diamonds and am glad to see them included as mastering diamonds really expand a quiltmaker’s horizons. A note in Summer Sparklers reminds the reader to refer to the picture frequently since color placement is important. The author does refer to colors as well as lights, mediums and darks in her cutting instructions, which is great if you don’t have the exact Jelly Roll or fabrics.

I am amazed at the quilts one can make from a Jelly Roll and think that this is a good book to work with.

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Book Review: Timeless

Timeless by Jo Morton, c2007

Timeless
Timeless

I first got interested in Jo Morton when I saw her do the Triangle Technique on Love of Quilting. As you may remember, I contacted her and asked if she had a technique sheet that gave directions for different sizes of half square triangles. She said no, that she was focusing on projects, which is what the market wants and my Triangle Technique post was born.

I bought Timeless in Minnesota after the email exchange, because I thought I would get an idea of her directions. The book was on the clearance table at Glad Creations, one of the shops I visited. This is a self published book, thus no ISBN and rather expensive ($16.00 for a 32 page pamphlet/booklet before clearance price). There are 3 projects, a section called ‘General Directions,’ a section on handpiecing, another on single thickness binding, some bio information and a pattern and book listing. There are lots of color photos as well.

The projects are quite classic. Jo does her projects in Civil War era reproduction colors and fabrics, but I think the projects would be stunning in more vibrant colors and more contemporary fabrics.

The heart method of making Flying Geese is well illustrated n in the Pickens Lane project. The directions are only for one size of Flying Geese. Deb Tucker’s Flying Geese Ruler comes with a chart of different sizes, which is one thing I was looking for from Jo Morton.

The Indigo Moment project gives specific instructions on cutting out patches for handpiecing, so the directions might be useful, if you have a car trip coming up and need a hand project. The other projects include directions saying how much to cut, but don’t say which method to use to cut. The directions are vague enough so one could rotary cut.

The Fabric Requirements have specific SKUs rather than saying 1 yard blues. This is definitely geared to people who are using her fabrics, which is difficult if you want to use different fabrics. I also think that tactic limits her market. I am not going to buy her fabric just because the directions include a SKU.

The feathers quilted on the Chestnut Hill project are very ….casual–, big and loopy, and I like their look very much.

She has general directions for making quilts including her “Clipping Trick” clearly shown and described in this book. This book is small enough to carry around without adding significant weight or bulk to your bag.

 

Book Review: Showcase 500 Beaded Jewelry

Showcase 500 Beaded Jewelry: Photographs of Beautiful Contemporary BeadworkShowcase 500 Beaded Jewelry: Photographs of Beautiful Contemporary Beadwork by Ray Hemachandra

This is another gorgeous ‘500’ title from Lark Books. More eye candy and inspiration for all kinds of creative people.

This book starts off with an introduction by author Ray Hemachandra. The introduction is interesting, because Ray mentions that beading is one of the oldest forms of creative expression and then moves on to mention changes to the art form’s professionalism in the last 20 years, among them social media, Etsy, copyright considerations and online connections. While this is not the first time I have read something about online communities and social media in a print publication I notice that the conversation is becoming more prominent.

Mr. Hemachandra gives an excellent description of the book, which I could not write more eloquently. He says “The book includes so many beaders with wonderful personal stories to share and that I’d like to share…but this isn’t that book. That’s another book to come soon, I hope. This book instead tells its stories through its photographs of jewelry….”. This book, as I said, is a feast for the eyes and will provide so much inspiration you will go to bed at night with your head spinning. You will have to make up your own stories about the artists and artworks, however.

The majority of the photos depict necklaces and bracelets. And in this department extreme beading is not an overstatement. I thought Kissy Fish was pretty extreme beading, and, perhaps, it is on a quilt, but I scattered a few beads across the surface in comparison to some of the amazing works in this book.

Neutrals such as bronze, grey, black, gold, pearl and silver dominate the colors, as jewelry tends to be made predominantly with those colors. There are a few glimmers of color on each page. Susan Blessinger’s Impending Bloom necklace looks very neutral in color in the full photo, but the detail shot shows dragonfly-esque pearlescent colors that are not visible in the full photo. Jamie Cloud Eakin’s Bling, pg.76, sparkles with prisms and crytals reflecting magenta and purples, evne on the book page. Of course, the pieces with pure beads and no metallic parts have more color.

There is a pretty, but serious necklace (You & Eye by Rachel Nelson-Smith, pg.116) with very realistic looking eyes. The necklace is more of a collar done in pure white with the eyes embedded in the surface beading. I am not a big fan of fake eyes, because they often look freaky, but the eyes in this piece look very real. I kept looking at the photo and waiting for one to blink.

One piece I noticed that was not a necklace or bracelet was a kind of long sleeved shrug (for those of you who knit), pg.118. It is called Dragon Lady and is a garment. I never thought of using beads to make a wearable accessory.

One of my favorite pieces is Jennifer Cameron’s Carnival (pg.75), because of the lovely combination of blues, greens and purples.

Look at the shapes, materials and colors and be inspired.

Thanks to Lark Books for sending this book to me to review!

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Book Review: Art Quilt Portfolio The Natural World

Art Quilt Portfolio: The Natural World: Profiles of Major Artists, Galleries of Inspiring WorksArt Quilt Portfolio: The Natural World: Profiles of Major Artists, Galleries of Inspiring Works by Martha Sielman

I have been so remiss in reviewing this eye candy book by Lark Crafts! They sent it to me at least a month ago and I waited to have enough to write a review that would do the book justice. HAH! That will never happen, so here I am writing the review, finally. Hopefully, it is a good one.

This is a lush and lavish book. The photos are wonderful and there are plenty of them. The styles of the quilts are all different as well. Anxiety Won, 2006 by Ginny Smith has a folk art feel with the birds and improvisational cutting while I can’t even tell that Martha Cole’s piece, First Turning, 2007, is a quilt because it looks so much like a photograph.

This book is full of texture, paint, quilting, non-quiltmaking fabrics such as taffeta, embroidery, stenciling, which all flows together very well for a united whole. The color is rich and many of the quiltmakers nod at classic techniques and fabrics. There are regular quiltmaking fabrics that you and I probably have in our fabric closets. Piecing and quilting are used frequently by a variety of different artists to convey their message.

I have a love-hate relationship with representational works in the quiltmaking genre. I don’t like the quilts where an image is just printed on a piece of fabric and called a quilt. I believe in piecing and the symbology of some quilt blocks. I want some mystery. If someone wants to take a photo, go take a photo. I know that sounds harsh. Now you know one of my failings. Some of the quilts in this book are like that and I just had to ignore them. In spite of my own fault, there were so many other quilts with excellent designs and amazing imagery.

Unlike the Masters Quilts series, Masters: Art Quilts: Major Works by Leading Artists and book:Masters: Art Quilts Vol. 2: Major Works by Leading Artists, both of which I adored, this book goes into a bit more about the quilt artists, their process and some of the pieces. Judith Trager writes “I had been an avid gardener until about 2004 or 2005, when I discovered that I could no longer do the physical work. So I started making garden quilts” (pg.15). This is one example of a peek into the process. The other artists explain their work in different ways, sometimes talking about inspiration or process or how they got from there to here.

All of the artists’ sections are well illustrated and show a variety of work. I don’t know how any quiltmaker could fail to find something attractive. Cassandra Williams uses pieced diamonds and equilateral triangles as backgrounds in her quilt Dance of the Deep (pg. 81). Elsbeth Nusser-Lampe’s Struggle 2010 has the feel of Marie Webster’s Poppy quilt. The shimmer of some of the background fabrics is one of the elements that the artist uses to bring the feel into 2010.  Aside from piecing, I also see the influence of other quilts in some of the pieces.

Threadpainting, which was mentioned in the Texture podcast from last week, and quilting are both very evident in this book. The photos are so good that they made feel I could reach out and many of the quilts. The reader is able to see the amazing quilting in many of the quilts. Vagabond Song by Elaine Quehl is one example.

This is an excellent book. I love the photos, the imagery and the accompanying text. Run, don’t walk to get this book. I am adding it to my collection!

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Book Review: Showcase 500 Rings

Showcase 500 Rings: New Directions in Art JewelryShowcase 500 Rings: New Directions in Art Jewelry by Marthe Le Van

This is another book I received from Lark Crafts. Thanks, Lark! This particular book is another gem from the Lark 500 series. I love this series, because it is pure eye candy – no patterns, no basics, just fabulous photos of amazing pieces.

As I have mentioned many times, I am not a jeweler, however, I always love the opportunity to review shapes and motifs in a different format. I think it can inform my quiltmaking.

As the title advertises there are photos of 500 rings. I should say ‘rings’ because some of these pieces are more sculpture than the conventional idea of a wearable ring. I believe that artists in this medium are not making wearable art; they are making sculpture just as quilt artists are not making bed quilts. As I paged through the book, I was immediately struck by different shapes and motifs on the pieces: circles, drops, leaves, shells, confections and many others.

I also noticed the variety of materials. I see felted wool (??), knitted fibers, broderie perse type fabric pieces, paper, photographs, glass, silk, a clothespin, along with the normal metals and stones.

The contents page sports a photo of a ring that looks like a series of cross sections of colored pencils (also on pg.268), which drew me in right away. It is called 11 Ring 4 and is by Maria Cristina Bellucci. There is a piece that is morphing from ring into a glove (pg.80), which I think is an interesting evolution of this medium.

One of my favorites is Links Ring by Uranit Bar-Nes (pg.220). Of course the color (a sea blue) is one of my favorites, but I also like the color’s combination with silver and blue zircons. I also like Garden Pond Ring by Aurelio Castano (pg.216), which is a purely beaded piece with a huge stone in the middle. Another duo was Tangle Rings by Bridget Catchpole (pg.212). They are my aqua (tending towards turquoise), light green and white pieces where the shapes look like something that would be on top of a cake. The circles squished next to each other in Vina Rust’s Ring #1: Stained Cell Series (pg.171) is also a very appealing design.

If you need some inspiration, regardless of your primary medium, this book will provide you with some shapes, motifs and textures that will reinvigorate your artwork.

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Book Review: Heat, Color, Set & Fire

Heat, Color, Set & Fire: Surface Effects for Metal JewelryHeat, Color, Set & Fire: Surface Effects for Metal Jewelry by Mary Hettmansperger

This is another free book for review from Lark Crafts. Thanks, Lark! It is a large 8.5″ x 11″ book with gorgeous violet-lavender endpapers. In flipping through the tome, I noticed that earth tones dominate. Every once in a while there is a spark of color, which is used effectivelyl to catch the reader’s interest. I also noticed a lot of spiral motifs in the book.

After the introduction, which mostly sells the book and doesn’t introduce the author much, the book launches right into a section on materials (pg.8-27). This section is well illustrated and I particularly liked the subheading fonts. The section is also LONG and includes photos of items such as Liver of Sulfur, gloves and earplugs, disk cutter & punches, tripod for firing and a bench grinder. Interspersed with these scary looking tools are photos of jewelry, presumably to soften the blow for a new jeweler.  😉 The Basic Techniques section is also quite long (pg.29-51). Each part of the Basic Techniques section gives step by step instructions for creating a new texture or applying a technique and then shows an example of the end result. I am pleased the author and publisher thought it was worthwhile to document and illustrate these foundation sections so thoroughly.

There are 21 projects included, each spanning about 4 pages. Lots of illustrations and drawings are included with each project. Templates are frequently included as well and variations are shown in photos to spark creativity. I like the Colored Tin Collection project, the Mixed Metal Bracelet project, especially the variations, and the Orange Enamel Choker, though I might want to put the pendant on a different chain.

This seems to be a great book for adding texture to your metal projects.

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Book Review: Japanese Beadwork with Sonoko Nozue

Japanese Beadwork with Sonoko Nozue: 25 Jewelry Designs from a Master ArtistJapanese Beadwork with Sonoko Nozue: 25 Jewelry Designs from a Master Artist by Sonoko Nozue

Before this book is even opened, there is an air of exotica – a demure look by a young Asian woman shot in black & white. She definitely has a secret and as one delves into the book the reader finds that the secret is feminine, delicate, refined, exotic and wearable pieces.

The introduction, by Nathalie Mornu, gives background on the author, Sonoko Nozue including her inspirations, enticing personality traits, teaching projects and some biographical details. The information makes me, not much of a beader, want to meet the Ms. Nozue.

The basics section is a bit daunting at first glance. The necklaces and bracelets are intricate. Those photos are deceiving and should not scare entice the reader, though, because different types of beads, needles and thread are covered right away in the beginning of the basics section. I always enjoy reading the definitions of the beads. For example, “Matsuno beads are glass beads produced exclusively by the Matsuno Company, which was established in 1935. They can sometimes be difficult to find in Japan. Outside of Japan, they’re sold under the brand name MGB. Matsuno beads have thick walls and small holes. (pg.12)” You might be thinking “BFD!”, but I think it is interesting to know that this company has been in existence since before World War II as well as what I need to look for if I want to find these beads in the US. There is a also a chart of symbols; the same idea as knitting charts. The basics section continues with a section on techniques, illustrated by a small bag project with an inset cameo. The basics section wraps up with several pages of stitches.

Chapters on projects start immediately after the basics section. The projects are well illustrated and have beautiful photographs of models wearing the jewelry. My favorite projects are Cheerful Midafternoon (pg.22), a necklace that looks like one worn by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and Dripping the Moon (pg.30), a pendant that resembles a small purse (mentioned above). Projects also have variations. Crystal Rose, a large and elegant necklace (pg.102) suggests mounting the pendant on a hair comb instead of hanging it from a rope (‘chain’).

There are so many illustrations that make up the directions in this book that quiltmakers can get inspired for machine quilting and embellishing from looking at the photos alone.

The book has a gallery in the back and an index, two of my favorites. This book is pure and simple eye candy. Take a look.

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Book Review: Diane Fitzgerald’s Favorite Beading Projects

Diane Fitzgerald's Favorite Beading Projects: Designs from Stringing to BeadweavingDiane Fitzgerald’s Favorite Beading Projects: Designs from Stringing to Beadweaving by Diane Fitzgerald

As the title says, this book is all about the projects. After a brief introduction by Diane Fitzgerald and a multi-page foreword (AKA lovefest) by Jean Campbell describing Ms. Fitzgerald’s career and many talents, the book starts right in on the projects. There is no ‘Basics’ section, but tips and techniques are woven throughout the book.

This book has a whopping 24 projects. At an MSRP of $27.95, that is about $1.04 per pattern. If you want to try a lot of different techniques, this is a good book to buy.

Throughout the book, the author shows very clearly how to put the beads together into the larger units needed to make the project. In looking at these images, I am sure a clever quiltmaker could apply beads to a quilt project in the same manner and achieve a great, if flatter look. The book is also good for the quiltmaker who wants to know more about beads. This book has wonderful pictures of different beads used.

I was hard pressed to pick a favorite project as I started to look through them. Many of the projects are necklaces in styles that I don’t wear. I liked the Midnight Snowflakes (pg.75) necklace, but it wasn’t a favorite. I also liked the Lacy Bracelet (pg.71). I was also quite partial to the May Basket project (pg.65), but can’t imagine wearing one as a broach or as a pendant. I did like their look and imagined having a “Spring Tree” (as opposed to a Christmas Tree) covered with these baskets. I was getting discouraged, but the end of the book (pg.100) shows the Braided Garland Necklace. Though it is a little bit large, I love the spring feeling of it.

Each project has a page with a variation so the reader can see what the project looks like in slightly different colors or using different beads.

The end of the book has a gallery of projects, presumably by Ms. Fitzgerald. I really like the Tulip Necklace Pouch (pg.125). It reminds me of the beaded bag Hermione uses in the Deathly Hallows.

Enjoy this inspirational book and thanks to Lark Books for sending it to me.

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Book Review: Metal Clay Fusion

Metal Clay Fusion: Diverse Clays, Detailed Techniques, Artful ProjectsMetal Clay Fusion: Diverse Clays, Detailed Techniques, Artful Projects by Gordon K. Uyehara

One of the first things I thought of when I saw this book was that the cover piece looked like some prehistoric animal, but not in a bad way. The shape looks very organic in a prehistoric sense. That was the beginning of realizing that the author, Gordon K. Uyehara uses many, many shapes and designs from nature, or which were informed by nature, in his work. This gives the hard edge of metal smoothness and positivity.

The things I like about this book are:

  • lots and lots of excellent, detailed photos
  • index
  • attention to the details of the works.

I also like these words from the author, which can be found in the introduction, “The near obsessive compulsion to create with silver clay in the face of a dwindling savings account and the feeling of spending way too many hours on something that might just lead to nothing go beyond logic.” I think we have all felt that way about some creative endeavor.

As with many of the Lark Craft books, this one is full of information about metal clays. It goes into detail about the properties of different types (bronze vs. copper, for example) and how to use them. This book also has tips inset on the pages. The detail photos show how to achieve the minute design details shown on some of the finished pieces. Included are sections called, for example, “Paintbrush Skills” and “Carving,” which help the reader with those details.

I liked the few pages on Design (pg.49-50). I don’t think anyone can get enough design training and hearing it from different voices is valuable.

This technique requires firing, so there are many pages included that discuss firing – temperatures, what to do when combining the metal with other materials. The books includes a section called “What happens during firing” and also a section on Mental Theatrics. We all go through some kind of drama when preparing to do something major to a piece. This section talks about ideas. I don’t see this type of writing in many books, so I was glad it was included and hope Lark makes it a regular feature of their quilt books as well.

The photos are predominantly of Mr. Uyehara’s work, but there are also pieces from other artists. Barbara Becker Simon’s Jester Jar is one of my favorites. It combines glass and metal. I also like the Bubbles Belt Buckle by Liz Hall (pg.38).

The projects are interesting. They range from earrings, bangles and beads to Hashi Oki (chopstick rests), condiment spoons and hairpins. I was very glad to see some new and different projects in this book.

As I have mentioned numerous time, I do not make jewelry, so this book will be donated to the Library, but, if nothing else, this books is a wealth of inspiration in shape, detail and design. There are plenty of curves to offset the hard edge of the metal. Spirals, ovals and circles permeate Uyehara’s work. There is a lot of eye candy in this book and would be an excellent book for inspiration, even if you are not a jewelry maker.

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Book Review: The Creative Habit

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for LifeThe Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp

I started this book some time ago after I received it as a gift. I didn’t get very far as it didn’t grab my attention and other books elbowed their way to the front of the line. I, finally, decided to get serious and really start reading it. One of the best things about it so far is that Twyla Tharp describes creativity as a habit. While that sounds much more boring that creativity being a flash of light from God, it is much more comforting for me. I can develop a habit; I can’t really wait around for a flash from God.

I took the first test and had a hard time with some of the questions, but found that I got into it as I went on. I also gained some insight and was able to go back and fill in other answers I had skipped.

Not being a student, I don’t sit with my books at a table and read and write notes or take tests. I like the tests and think they are useful, but the tests came up periodically, usually at times when I didn’t have a writing implement or the time to devote to the test. This was one of the reasons I got stalled.

Eventually, I just started to read the book, not do the tests and underline words and phrases that spoke to me. That was a much better plan and I got a lot out of it.

I plan to take bits I underlined out of the book and write about them here. Look for those snippets or review-lets in the future.

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Book Review: Adventures with Leaders & Enders

Adventures With Leaders & Enders: Make More Quilts In Less Time!Adventures With Leaders & Enders: Make More Quilts In Less Time! by Bonnie K. Hunter

I bought this book with an Amazon gift card, because I had heard so much about Bonnie K. Hunter, especially from Katie of Katie’s Quilting Corner. I have been using the the Leaders & Enders technique, which Hunter calls L&E in the book, for awhile. I didn’t really need a book to tell me to cut my scraps into manageable and usable sizes and sew them together.

The first 14 pages talk about the Leaders & Enders technique, including useful sizes in which to cut your scraps, sorting scraps, making some basic units (4 patch, 9 patch, half square triangles), and a small section on strip piecing. The last page (pg.15) is called “What quilters are saying about Bonnie Hunter’s Leaders & Enders method.” All the praise is glowing and there are little stories about people using the Leaders & Enders technique.

The Leaders & Enders technique is explained thoroughly on pages 8-9. If the quiltmaker reads these two pages, s/he will know what to do.

The beginning section also talks about finding time and getting organized. Finding time is a perpetual problem for most people, so Hunter’s advice is useful and realistic. The Getting Organized section (pg.12) talks a lot about containers, what she likes about certain types and what she doesn’t like about others.

Aside from the fact that publishers are demanding that quilt authors make many projects, I think Bonnie K. Hunter had to create projects for this book. If a quiltmaker cut up his/her scraps and made bunches of 4 and 9 patches accented by half square triangles, most wouldn’t know what to do with them. The projects make sense in this book.

Adventures with Leaders and Enders has 13 projects and all of the quilts are made from pieces cut using Hunter’s method. Larger pieces of fabric are used for sashing, borders, etc in most of the quilts, but the majority of the blocks are made with scraps using the Leaders & Enders technique.

At the end of the book (pg. 92-93), there is a section that includes paragraphs on “Additional thoughts on color”, “Allow yourself playtime”, “Analyze the pattern” and “How to gauge yardage.” In this section, she says “If I run out of something, I just substitute something else.” I think that is very good advice. Many vintage quilts have random pieces that don’t match, because, presumably, the quiltmaker ran out of fabric. We are fortunate to have plenty of fabric, but keep this advice in mind as a few different fabrics can add interest and movement to a quilt.

My favorite quilt in this book is the Blue Ridge Beauty, which uses a similar block to my the block used in my Stepping Stones quilt. I like the combination of 4 patches and half square triangles. Actually, I like most the quilts in the book, though I do find the total scrappiness of some of them somewhat unsuccessful. In Sisters Nine Patch, Ms. Hunter sticks to a certain color palette and I think this choice makes this quilt one of the more successful projects.

I am not much of one for randomly selecting fabrics and putting them in a quilt. I like a little more thought, so some of these projects strike me as not being well chosen in terms of color. Still, they have charm. I also think that Hunter’s color palette is a little muddier and more Civil War-ish than mine. That difference definitely affects my view.

I would have dearly loved to have a seen a gallery of quilts (made by students??) in different colors in this book. I think the reader would really benefit from such a gallery.

This is a quick read. I would get it from the Library, but the tips and tricks are good and can be used with any type of fabric.

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