Bondoc, Anna. Simply Paper Cutting. Fox Chapel. 2012. 144p. illus. index. ISBN 9781574214185. pap. $19.99. CRAFTS
Los Angeles-based artist Bondoc (Letters of Intent) developed her approach to paper cutting as a way to work with paper without the chemicals and fuss of printmaking. Using stencils, craft knives, and simple adhesives, she creates paper art featuring cutouts and colorful layers. This guide walks would-be paper crafters through the various steps of creating a variety of projects, including place cards, ornaments, and stationery items. The designs require precise, controlled work, but the results are often striking—and they bear a strong resemblance to Bondoc’s first love, printmaking. VERDICT Paper crafters, including scrapbookers, will find ideas and inspiration from Bondoc’s artwork.
Solomon, Lisa. Knot Thread Stitch. Quarry. 2012. 144p. illus. ISBN 9781592537723. pap. $24.99. Fiber Crafts
Mixed-media artist Solomon uses embroidery to embellish her artwork with texture and depth. This collection of simple projects demonstrates how embroidered embellishment can add interest to everyday goods. After a clear, thorough introduction to the tools and supplies used in hand embroidery, the fun begins: Solomon presents a collection of home decor and accessory projects with a distinctively indie-craft aesthetic. A number of artists join her to present their takes on the projects, bringing their unique styles to the collection. VERDICT Interest in embroidery continues to grow, and the variety of projects in Solomon’s collection, as well as its trendy aesthetic, make this an appealing purchase.
Heaser, Sue. Metal Clay for Jewelry Makers. Interweave. 2012. 191p. illus. index. ISBN 9781596687134. $29.95. CRAFTS
Metal clay is a versatile medium available in a number of finishes, including gold, silver, copper, and bronze. In this comprehensive guide to metal clay jewelry, Heaser (Magical Metal Clay Jewelry) thoroughly describes the tools and techniques used to create a variety of jewelry pieces. She takes a basics-and-beyond approach, covering all the essentials, then provides additional information for more advanced artists. Heaser includes a wide variety of projects, and with the possibilities available for base metal and embellishment, there’s something to suit most tastes. VERDICT With its extensive illustrations and step-by-step directions, this is the next best thing to taking a class with an experienced jewelry maker.
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The following titles are reviewed in the January 1 print issue. Visit Book Verdict for the full reviews.
ART INSTRUCTION
American Jewish Historical Soc., New York
James, George. Watercolor Painting: Expert Answers to the Questions Every Artist Asks. Barron’s. 2012. 224p. illus. index. ISBN 9781438000220. pap. $16.99. ART INSTRUCTION
Roig, Gabriel Martin. How To Paint Abstracts. Barron’s. Pocket Art Guides. 2012. 96p. illus. ISBN 9780764164552. $9.99. ART INSTRUCTION
Vohora, Atul. Painting the Human Figure: Ideas and Perception. Crowood. 2012. 144p. illus. index. ISBN 9781847973573 pap. $29.95. ART INSTRUCTION
CRAFTS
Champaign P.L., IL
Maynes, Tamara. 82 Modern Style Ideas To Create at Home. Murdoch, dist. by Trafalgar Square. 2012. 192p. illus. ISBN 9781742666785. pap. $29.95. CRAFTS
do it yourself
Taylor P.L., TX
Woodwork Joints: How To Make and Where To Use Them. Skyhorse Pub. Feb. 2013. 128p. ed. by William Fairham. illus. index. ISBN 9781620872154. pap. $12.95. DIY
fiber crafts
Champaign P.L., IL
Crasbercu, Corinne. Everything Patchwork: 40 Classic Quilts, Bags, and Accessories. Murdoch, dist. by Trafalgar Square. ( Made in France.) 2012. 144p. illus. ISBN 9781741969702. pap. $24.95. Fiber Crafts
Meldrum, Carol. 30 Min-Knits. Barron’s. 2012. 128p. illus. index. ISBN 9781438001296. pap. $16.99. Fiber Crafts
Omdahl, Kristin. The Finer Edge: Crocheted Trims, Motifs, & Borders. Interweave. 2012. 143p. illus. index. ISBN 9781596685543. pap. $22.95. Fiber Crafts
Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Hat Book. Sixth & Spring. 2012. 176p. illus. index. ISBN 9781936096503. $24.95. Fiber crafts
interior design
Fashion Inst. of Design & Merchandising, Los Angeles
Miller, Danielle. New Paris Style. Thames and Hudson. 2012. 224p. illus. ISBN 9780500516300. $40. INTERIOR DESIGN
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