Pretty Little Things: Collage Jewelry, Trinkets, Keepsakes
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Ready, Set, Solder!
  • A book overflowing with love for art and life.
  • Scrapbooking under glass
  • GET READY FOR FUN FUN FUN!!!!
  • A lovely book but I returned it
Pretty Little Things: Collage Jewelry, Trinkets, Keepsakes
Sally Jean Alexander
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mixed MediaMixed Media | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Papercrafts | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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  4. Metal Craft Discovery Workshop: Create Unique Jewelry, Art Dolls, Collage Art, Keepsakes and More! Metal Craft Discovery Workshop: Create Unique Jewelry, Art Dolls, Collage Art, Keepsakes and More!
  5. Kaleidoscope: Ideas And Projects to Spark Your Creativity Kaleidoscope: Ideas And Projects to Spark Your Creativity

ASIN: 1581808429

Book Description

Whimsical and Elegant Projects from Well-Known Collage Artist Sally Jean Alexander

*Shares 27 projects with 30 variations for additional inspiration
*Uses vintage ephemera to create charms, vials, miniature shrines, and reliquary boxes
*Features author Sally Jean Alexander's signature style

With Pretty Little Things, readers will find collage projects that exhibit a playful air and a sense of magic. The twenty-seven projects and thirty variations feature vintage ephemera soldered within glass, for finished works that tell a romantic or whimsical story. All exhibit Sally Jean Alexander's signature style--a style that brings new life to antique papers, vintage photographs, found projects, scavenged text, and more.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Ready, Set, Solder!.......2007-10-02

I originally checked this book out of the library, but was so entranced I had to order a copy for my own library. The book is filled with lots of small projects, like many others - but what's so enchanting (and different) about it is that you end up with USABLE ingredients for other projects when you're done!

Learn to solder - start small, with different types of charms. Progressively more involved pieces teach more advanced techniques. When you've completed just 2 or 3 'mini projects' you've got a set of workable charms for future work - an excellent use of the bits you've made, and SO wonderful when compared to many other books I've seen where you make weird oddments that have no other use when completed other than to have demonstrated a technique. This book builds your technique AND your supplies - a definite winner. I heartily recommend it to artists who are starting to explore other media!

5 out of 5 stars A book overflowing with love for art and life........2007-10-02

I have read all of the reviews here for Sally Jean's "Pretty Little Things." One can see those reviews of the people who perceive the world as half empty.
For me, Sally's book is a glass overflowing with creativity, eye candy and the love for the art that she creates. It's a wonderful insight to see how this amazing artist processes all the inspiration that surrounds her.
Sally gives us a tour of her inner soul...that playful, joyous spirit we all see in her classes. She has translated onto the written page all of her enthusiasm for her art and life.
"Pretty Little Things" is a joy to read. I loved the way that Sally's personality shines through...something that can be lost in a "how to" book. Buy this book, then take one of Sally's classes and you'll see what I mean!

5 out of 5 stars Scrapbooking under glass.......2007-08-27

This book is so much fun. I am a stained glass and scrapbooking hobbyist and have found this book to be a combination of both things and a great source for glass collage. I have had lots of fun with it and have encouraged others to try their hand at this mixed media.

5 out of 5 stars GET READY FOR FUN FUN FUN!!!!.......2007-08-26

FIND YOUR GUMPTION AND HAVE YOUR WITTS ABOUT YOU!
this book is not just great to look at, the projects are fun to do.
i would say this BOOK is for anyone who likes to gain inspiration from fun projects, the PROJECTS are for those self starters willing to be patient with themselves and their project. for instance a lot of these projects reqiure soldering. if you have never done soldering go get you an iron an start slow- mind you- i said slow-hence the patience part i mentioned. dont be afraid to get help-look in your phone book and see if there is anyone doing stained glass in your area- call and ask for a quickie lesson. plumbers use solder too. once you get the hang of it you'll pee your pants with glee because this one skill opens up sooo many possibilities for your all your crafts. sally gives a lot of recommendations for supplies and i learned her recommendatons are based on her extensive experience. be prepared to spend some dough on really good equipment I.e. temperature control soldering iron, gel flux, taurus ring saw(the big red one in her book),silvergleem solder. get the things she recommends. i tried being cheap and my results show it. then i tried her recommendations and my results reflected much better. i checked out the links for product in the back and i found i could buy ALL the supplies i needed on ebay for a lot less than the links. the ring saw is a blast and a halfand i found it on ebay too! cuts glass like butter and you CANNOT cut yourself. the "lifes a beach" pendant on page 83 was my first project. i had some sand from a special beach trip we took and i found a wad of test tubes at the flee market-cut those up,taped,soldered-not too bad! tried again-much better! as i said this book is a great looker and doer!

3 out of 5 stars A lovely book but I returned it.......2007-08-09

This book is lovely to look at, but if you do not have any jewellery making skills or tools the projects are not for you. I ended up returning this book because the projects involved more than I had thought, and required jewellery making tools that I do not own. It wasn't quite what I hoped for, but was still a lovely book to look at.
Collage Unleashed
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Plenty of Pep and Sparkle, but . . . .
  • WOW!
  • On the road
  • collage unleashed
  • Best Collage Book I've Read!
Collage Unleashed
Traci Bautista
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mixed MediaMixed Media | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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Textile ArtsTextile Arts | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1581808453

Book Description

The funky, colorful projects in Collage Unleashed encourage readers to turn off their inner critics and tap into a childlike sense of wonder and imagination. With projects that range from art books and fabric journals to mixed-media paintings, this book:

-Showcases three of the most popular trends in papercrafting--collage, altered fabric and journaling

-Features a wide range of techniques for crafters at every level, including crayon transfers, funky embroidery, freestyle hand lettering and creative book binding

-Combines paper, fabric, beads, dyes, paints and more in unexpected ways

Everyone from collage artists and book-making enthusiasts to papercrafters will want to put this title at the top of their personal wish lists.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Plenty of Pep and Sparkle, but . . . . .......2007-09-27

Traci Bautista is clearly a tremendously imaginative and energetic artist. I expect her book will help to fire up many inhibited or hesitant young readers -- or will at least give them plenty of new ideas with regard to tools and techniques. As other reviewers have noted, the sheer number of ideas the author introduces is prodigious. The photographs of her own work reveal a plethora of fanciful, upbeat productions which may well have wide appeal.

On the other hand, I can not think this book will be a good "fit" for everyone who works with collage. In fact, I expected to like the book much more than I did. It is hard to put my finger on just what disappointed me -- possibly the whole unleash-yourself tone. Do I really want to incorporate lots of randomly dyed paper towels in my collages? Will my art truly benefit from the addition of crayons melted in my oven?

I suspect the book may appeal more to younger (post-
Boomer) people who value fast, fun creative experiences -- and who like the idea of accumulating whole stockpiles of colorful materials (such as the aforementioned dyed paper towels) to incorporate in future scads of collages. I guess I am more the stodgy, plodding type of artist -- the type who is currently studying a completed nixed-media collage (no crayons or paper towels) over a period of several days, trying to decide whether to add one more acrylic glaze. Frankly, I am also the type who tends to cringe ever so slightly when confronting instructions for, say, doodling "girlie glam faces"--"My journals are filled with doodles of these girls; they're fun, feminine, and pretty," writes Ms. Bautista on page 49.

In fairness, those who are into sewing and needlework may appreciate some of the projects requiring a sewing machine or a penchant for tying macrame knots. The directions for experimenting with book binding are also interesting and quite accessible even to the interested beginner. Ms. Bautists is clearly skilled in this area, and she offers up some interesting possibilities for combining stitchery with other modalities.

Moreover, in the interests of full disclosure, I did decide to experiment with a judicious pinch or two of glitter after perusing this book. I liked the result. It definitely pepped up my latest collage.

I would suggest paging through the book before purchasing it and seeing whether Traci Bautista's own creations, choice of materials, etc., appeal to you at least as much as your own. If so, go for it! I am still, for the most part, inordinately content with my traditionalist-media. I will probably stay back here on the leash for a while longer.

5 out of 5 stars WOW!.......2007-08-22

This is one of my favorites in my vast art book collection. The collage techniques that Traci Bautista presents are fun, easy to follow, and encourage you to be creative. (I am not into "projects," but even the ones she included are open ended.) In addition, her graphics and use of color are awesome! Her style is a combination of American graffiti, calligraphic illumination, and a little of Picasso. You will not regret getting this book!

5 out of 5 stars On the road.......2007-08-13

Bought this book to take on a road trip. SO HAPPY to be back home so I can create with Traci as my inspiration!

Some of the techiniques in book-binding seem a little complicated, but it won't stop me! I am eager to try lots & lots of new things.

5 out of 5 stars collage unleashed.......2007-08-10

I love this book, is extremely creative and give you many ideas for many themes and design applications. I highly recommend this book to anybody involved in design

5 out of 5 stars Best Collage Book I've Read!.......2007-08-06

*****
This collage book is chock-full of ideas, examples, and text that helps you to give yourself permission to play, to experiment, and to come up with creative and unusual ideas of your own. There is a plethora of techniques covered, including fun things to do with text (which I especially liked), more than enough to keep me busy for a long, long time. It is staggering what can be done with collage, and "Collage Unleashed" does exactly what it promises---unleashes your imagination and gives you tools to explore with collage!

Highly recommended!
*****
Collage Lost And Found: Creating Unique Projects With Vintage Ephemera
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Lots of supplies needed!
  • Collages
  • Collage Lost and Found
  • Beautiful and inspiring
  • Collage Lost and Found: Creating Unique Projects with Vintage Ephemera
Collage Lost And Found: Creating Unique Projects With Vintage Ephemera
Giuseppina Cirincione
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mixed MediaMixed Media | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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  4. Metal Craft Discovery Workshop: Create Unique Jewelry, Art Dolls, Collage Art, Keepsakes and More! Metal Craft Discovery Workshop: Create Unique Jewelry, Art Dolls, Collage Art, Keepsakes and More!
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ASIN: 1581807872

Book Description

Now there's a hip way for crafters to bring family history into their daily lives. Collage Lost and Found combines basic collage techniques and found objects to create edgy and unusual crafts with not only style, but a story to tell, as well. Highlights include:

-20 step-by-step projects with easy, fashionable designs for greeting cards, magnets, necklaces, journals, and more

-Sassy, and alluring artwork that reflects the author's old-world Sicilian upbringing and her fascination with a bygone era

-Inspirational photo galleries packed with ideas, as well as information on basic collage, collecting ephemera, and jewelry techniques

Readers won't be able to resist these clever ideas for turning long-forgotten treasures into items they can wear, display, or send!

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Lots of supplies needed!.......2007-06-09

I bought this book because I am interested in collage. My interest lies mostly in ATCs (artist trading cards), and I was hoping to find some techniques here that I could scale down and use.

There are lots of nice examples and instructions, but I found myself getting overwhelmed in some sections. Plus, I would probably have to buy a lot of supplies for some of the projects (especially the ones that involve soldering). I've read through much of the book, and I'm trying to remember what I liked and didn't like about it. What I've realized is that the projects must not be all that memorable (at least not to me) because few examples come to mind!

I suppose, for inspiration, it's an okay book to have. And if you're looking at doing three-dimensional collages or other altered artwork, it's just fine. It just wasn't quite what I was looking for.

4 out of 5 stars Collages.......2007-05-17

This is a very informative book dealing with making different projects out of found items. The book gives great direction and lists supplies and tools that will be needed.

I received it within a week of ordering it.

4 out of 5 stars Collage Lost and Found.......2007-02-21

Vintage -passion for new technique and unique, can't wait to create several projects from Collage Lost and found

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful and inspiring.......2007-02-19

This book is lovely. The photos are clear and the instructions are as well. It is a great resource for making something different. There are many ideas and finished products to jump-start your imagination. Nicely laid out and balanced with instructions and photos.

4 out of 5 stars Collage Lost and Found: Creating Unique Projects with Vintage Ephemera.......2007-01-11

Beautiful ideas and well written. Great inspiration.
Collage Discovery Workshop: Make Your Own Collage Creations Using Vintage Photos, Found Objects and Ephemera
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • What A Fantastic Book
  • Thanks!
  • Lots of ideas in this one
  • Incredibly Informative Guide
  • Very useful and inspiring!
Collage Discovery Workshop: Make Your Own Collage Creations Using Vintage Photos, Found Objects and Ephemera
Claudine Hellmuth
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1581803435

Book Description

Inside readers will find more than a dozen innovative techniques and step by step demonstrations of 12 different collage projects specifically designed to help them achieve the modern, eclectic collage effect that's so popular today.

Collage Discovery Workshop shows readers how to rust or antique any object for collage and includes four recipes for creating amazing collage backgrounds from peeling paper to textured paint and so much more. In addition, five different image transfer techniques--for layering vintage photos and other art--along with creative excercises, journaling prompts and tips on altering books are included. Projects consist of the following:

*Collaged tin refrigerator magnets
*Heritage collage to honor a friend or relative
*Miniature candy tin assemblages
*Shadowboxes
*Beeswax collages

For stampers, paper and altered books artists--crafters of any skill level--Collage Discovery Workshop opens up whole new worlds of creativity.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars What A Fantastic Book.......2007-09-06

I just so love this book. It gets straight to the point, It is incredibly detailed plus for beginners like myself who are new to collage it makes perfect sense.

3 out of 5 stars Thanks!.......2007-08-11

Book was in great conditon, but I purchased the book for a project and by the time it came... we were done with the project.

5 out of 5 stars Lots of ideas in this one.......2007-08-10

Without a question Claudine gives great advice and instruction in this book. Lots of ideas for scrapbooking, collage and just crafty folks. I would definitely recommend her other book "Beyond the Unexpected" as well. She also has DVDs that are awesome for those of us who learn by watching. She's a hoot!

5 out of 5 stars Incredibly Informative Guide.......2007-07-12

Claudine's information is so inspiring, I wanted to stop reading and try each technique immediately. The instructions are easy to follow, the techniques are real creative and the personality she blends in with her writing style made me feel like I was one of her best friends having a coffee break right there in her studio!

5 out of 5 stars Very useful and inspiring!.......2007-06-04

This book is a great source for techniques. Instructions were clearly explained, with photos showing how to do everything. I would definitely buy another book by this author.
Altered Books Workshop: 18 Creative Techniques for Self-Expression
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great resource, Excellent source for beginners
  • Interesting, good instructions
  • iI cannot put down that book!!!
  • Good beginner hands-on book
  • Nice
Altered Books Workshop: 18 Creative Techniques for Self-Expression
Bev Brazelton
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1581805357

Book Description

Transform old books into one-of-a-kind pieces of art with Altered Books Workshop! In this book, readers receive detailed instructions for the newest craft craze--altered books--which combines bookmaking, collage, journaling, rubber stamping, papercrafting, stitching, embellishing and much more.

Readers will discover how to construct each page of the book, using paint, decoupage, ribbon fibers, photos, charms, rubber stamps or anything that captures their imagination. Bev Brazelton walks them step-by-step through the process, teaching readers a wide range of mixed media and papercrafting techniques. In addition, gallery pages showcase sample books with variations of each technique to infuse readers' brains with creative ideas of their own.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great resource, Excellent source for beginners.......2007-08-23

This book is filled with inspirational ideas and all the techniques needed to complete projects. Excellent for someone new to the craft.

5 out of 5 stars Interesting, good instructions.......2007-05-13

I bought this book, and several others, to use for a project in my highschool art classes. This is the one the kids looked at most. It had good instructions and ideas.

5 out of 5 stars iI cannot put down that book!!!.......2007-03-25

I have bought this book as an introduction to altered books and since then I cannot put it down. It is true that people who are experienced in the art of altering books may find it a little limited. But Bev Brazelton is such a talented artist! It is a yummy book for the eyes!
The book itself is devided is different parts showing different techniques from the most elementary ones to the more elaborated ones.
I truly recommand this book.
It is so inspiring!

4 out of 5 stars Good beginner hands-on book.......2007-02-19

I've done almost no altered-book work, and I've done a bit more collage. I took this book out of the library as part of some research into paper art techniques.

This book's organization is straightforward. Brazelton starts by explaining the basic materials and supplies used, in an organized and detailed fashion, and then teaches one specific technique at a time. This method seems good for people who know very little about the art and like to learn by working hands-on with a specific set of instructions. The author is very encouraging.

A couple of minor criticisms: My enjoyment of the book was marred a bit because I just don't like the author's artistic style very much. I also found it irritating that Brazelton used the same basic approach over and over (multiple layers of color washes) on each segment. I wish the author had added at least a few photos of other artist's works so I could see some other ways to approach altered books.

5 out of 5 stars Nice.......2007-02-16

This book is an awesome purchase for someone interested in learning about altered books. Detailed, good examples, techniques. Good choice.
Alphabetica: An A-Z Creativity Guide for Collage and Book Artists (Quarry Book)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Fun and Inspirational
  • Best guide for collage
  • Definitely has some inspiration but...
  • Portable Inspiration
  • So many ideas!
Alphabetica: An A-Z Creativity Guide for Collage and Book Artists (Quarry Book)
Lynne Perrella
Manufacturer: Quarry Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1592531768

Book Description

Mixed media techniques have come to forefront again, with artists in every field combining materials and effects to create journals, altered art, collage pieces, memory art and more. With all the creative experiementation developing at such a fast pace, it is pertinent to know how various techniques and combinations work and whether they are right for your latest project. Alphabetica illuminates new techniques through detailed visuals and rich, explanatory text. From cover to cover, readers absorb the specialties of each contributing artist, such as Judi Riesch's use of vintage photographs, and Lesley Riley's sophisticated fabric transfers, and are able to get an "over the shoulder" glance at how these artists work.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Fun and Inspirational.......2007-08-09

This book is loaded with fun and funky ideas for any artist. Some reviewers mentioned that they believe the ideas contained here to be geared more toward altered book artists, but I disagree. Any artist can adapt the principles found in this book to inspire their own work. This book is a go-to resource for me on a regular basis. Love it!

5 out of 5 stars Best guide for collage.......2007-07-30

This book is well laid-out and easy to follow. The illustrations are exciting and explanatory. This allows me to use a little or a lot of collage in my artwork.

4 out of 5 stars Definitely has some inspiration but..........2007-05-18

I collect a lot of books as an artist because I like to have multiple avenues of inspiration around me when I'm creating. This book definitely has many ideas but my one problem with it is that it's not that well organized. It covers each letter in the alphabet, like the title suggests, but jumps around, is not sequential, and the connections to each letter are not predictable so you really have to look through the whole book to find each idea. Letters for key words are repeated throughout the book...though the ideas are all original. For example: B is for buckle; B is for blocks; B is for brainstorming...etc.

For a quick reference however, it's great. Nice imagery and exemplars, with some inspirational ideas. If you are a book artist looking for more ways to alter and express your ideas, this is a great resource. If you are an artist looking to enhance your journals...this is a great book. If you are a teacher, this is also a great resource.

The back end of the book has 27 pages of workshops with detailed ideas. Here are some examples: Faux & Ancient Surfaces; Transparencies; Attachments; Building a Surface with Patterning; Metal Tape and Altered Images; Creating with Recycled Papers; Working Intuitively.

Each workshop page has an inspirational related quote, what to try, how to get started, tips, creating, a list of influences/exemplary artists, and studio essentials- a list of materials needed to complete this workshop.

5 out of 5 stars Portable Inspiration.......2007-03-24

I love the ability to take this book with me wherever I want to go to fuel my inspirational fires whenever needed. This slim book is about the size of a magazine, so it'll go into a backpack or any other kind of "carrying bag" with ease. Even though there are few pages compared to some art books, this book is FULL. Not one centimeter of this book was left untouched by the talents of the artists collaborating on this project. I'm hungry for more and will certainly be making future purchase from any one of the artists listed in this book.

5 out of 5 stars So many ideas!.......2007-03-08

A very interesting book. I have only tried one idea from it so far, but I was impressed with the results.
Collage Discovery Workshop: Beyond The Unexpected
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Fantastic
  • Beyond Great!
  • how-to that you'll want to
  • Wonderful Information
  • Claudine does it again!
Collage Discovery Workshop: Beyond The Unexpected
Claudine Hellmuth
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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  5. Collage Unleashed Collage Unleashed

ASIN: 1581806787

Book Description

A follow-up to the best-selling Collage Discovery Workshop, this book taps into a whole new level of creativity. It's packed with original ideas and artwork, including:

-16 new collage techniques and 12 new step-by-step projects - Exciting ways for readers to personalize their work with color, photos, lettering and hand drawn elements -A wide variety of fun surfaces like canvas, fabric, altered books, paper, and more -An inspiring gallery of work by the author and other top collage artists

Whether they're fans of the first book or brand new to collage, readers will flip for the appealing artwork and easy-to-follow instruction found here.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Fantastic.......2007-10-02

I'm new to collage and this book is clear with good steps by steps. A lot of ideas , easy and nice. Just I love it.

5 out of 5 stars Beyond Great!.......2007-09-11

I love this book! Claudine's projects and techniques are easy to follow and her conversational style makes this book a joy to read. The techniques can be adapted to any type of art you like!

5 out of 5 stars how-to that you'll want to.......2007-08-18

Plenty of CLEAR how-to on techniques you will want to try. These projects easily work for artists of different levels, even kids. I can make creative, clever art or cards, and my kids can join in. I really like the sense of humor throughout.

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful Information.......2007-08-10

This book gave clear instructions and ideas. I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in scrapbooking, collage, or just crafts in general. Great information. Claudine also has wonderful instructional DVDs if you are a learn by watching person.

4 out of 5 stars Claudine does it again!.......2007-08-09

She shares her secrets of collage and how she creates her sweet collages in her own personal style. Lots of great pictures and instructions, also if you have any questions about a technique, Claudine has a yahoo group, and pops in quite often to answer questions.
Pockets, Pull-outs, and Hiding Places: Interactive Elements for Altered Books, Memory Art, and Collage
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent resource for altered book artists
  • It's OK, but not enough diagrams
  • Loved this book!!
  • Secrets
  • Innovative Ideas
Pockets, Pull-outs, and Hiding Places: Interactive Elements for Altered Books, Memory Art, and Collage
Jenn Mason
Manufacturer: Quarry Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Papercrafts | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ScrapbookingScrapbooking | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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  3. Altered Board Book Basics & Beyond: For Creative Scrapbooks, Altered Books & Artful Journals Altered Board Book Basics & Beyond: For Creative Scrapbooks, Altered Books & Artful Journals
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ASIN: 1592531504

Book Description

More and more scrapbookers and paper artists are seeking clever ways to make their albums and paper projects more interesting and three-dimensional. One of the most exciting ways of accomplishing this is by adding interactive elements, such as doors that open and reveal hidden layers, and envelopes and pockets that hold secret text, personal letters, or special photos.

Pockets, Pull Outs and Hiding Places: A Guide to Interactive Scrapbooking, Memory Art and Paper Art teaches the paper engineering techniques for making three dimensional and interactive “paper tools” such as vellum pockets, hinged doors that reveal mini booklets underneath. These tools are applicable to scrapbookers, memory, and paper artists at any level of experience. The tools are also adjustable enough to be used in any style of work.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent resource for altered book artists.......2007-09-18

I truly enjoy this book as a resource for making altered books. It contains lot of ideas to give your altered books interesting elements and ways to tuck in little extras. I have to disagree with the reviewer who says it is just about scrapbooking. I don't scrapbook at all and find this an invaluable help for my paper arts hobby. However, scrapbookers will enjoy the ideas, as well.

2 out of 5 stars It's OK, but not enough diagrams.......2007-08-02

I got this book because, like many others, wanted to get some good ideas on incorporating these elements into my collage and photo art. The focus is very scrapbook-y, but that wouldn't matter to me if there were at least some good diagrams/step-by-step instructions on how to complete the projects.

I have several other bookbinding books that show complicated binding approaches with diagrams that make it so easy to complete. This book needs some diagrams! In this book, there were many ideas I had seen before, but I still thought the examples are a nice collection of approaches, however, the instructions are poorly written.

On a positive side, the templates are nice.

Since I have several other books that show similar examples, I will probably end up giving this book to a friend who scrapbooks. I do think this is a good book for scrapbookers--the examples and ideas will appeal to them. I'm somewhere between scrapbooking and collage/mixed media artist, so there are other books that appeal to me more.

5 out of 5 stars Loved this book!!.......2007-03-10

I had always wondered how these things were done. This book if informative and the instuctions are very good. I recommend this one very highly.

5 out of 5 stars Secrets.......2007-01-13

Great and easy to use with full sized templates. The instructions are clear with excellent photos. Definitely worth the money.

5 out of 5 stars Innovative Ideas.......2006-08-20

I found the various different ways of creating sketchbook/journals exhibited in this book very helpful in offering my students creative options to bookmaking.
In This House: A Collection of Altered Art Imagery and Collage Techniques
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • So inspiring!
  • Exquisite and Unique book for all artists to learn from
  • Love it!
  • An Innovative Spectacle of Delight!
  • I Love In This House
In This House: A Collection of Altered Art Imagery and Collage Techniques
Angela Cartwright , and Sarah Fishburn
Manufacturer: Quarry Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mixed MediaMixed Media | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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  1. Secrets of Rusty Things: Transforming Found Objects into Art Secrets of Rusty Things: Transforming Found Objects into Art
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ASIN: 1592533612

Book Description

A beautiful collection of collage art and techniques exploring the theme of home

In This House showcases a collaborative art project that explores innovative altered art and collage techniques by top mixed media artists. Using the theme of "home," each artist designed five altered art rooms to complete an individual 9"x12" 'house' that closes like a book or can stand accordion style. Each house is a part of a larger whole; a neighborhood of twelve unique and fascinating art-full houses, varying in execution, theme, and style, yet united as part of the larger neighborhood. Each "house" is a unique interpretation on the theme, reflecting the artist's style and incorporating the mixed media techniques for which each artist is most well known. The thirteen artists have created an inspiring collage technique workbook for readers. The back of the book includes a blank "house" template and a clip-art gallery of home-themed imagery that readers can alter and use in their own collage work.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars So inspiring!.......2007-09-25

I am so happy to have In This House in MY house. The different styles of each artist are highlighted individually yet manage to complement each other. I love that the photos of the art are HUGE and you can see every detail of each artful house.

5 out of 5 stars Exquisite and Unique book for all artists to learn from.......2007-08-20

I am a jewelry designer, attempting to branch out, for fun, into mixed media. I was immediately attracted to this book because of the appealing cover, and, additionally, because I am familiar with the authors. Angela Cartwright and Sara Fishburn are already well known in the art world. They imbue beauty and energy into their projects.

I particularly liked the fact that I received a template in this book so that I might design my own house, just like the ones the reader can wander all over, here and there and everywhere, in the world created within this book.

"A Collection of Altered Art Imagery and Collage Techniques" is the subtitle for In This House. However it is much more. If you liked fairy tales as a child for example, you will fall in love with the manner in which the authors have laid out this book.

To begin with, in order to unite the artists who participated by creating individual houses, each house with its separate style and name, there is a map, entitled "Shortcut through the Neighborhood", so you can see where you will be off to.

I sometimes wonder: what is a house?

To me, a house is representative of a person's soul, identity, dreams and hopes. To gather together in a community such as the one these authors present, the work of a number of artists, all designing the art/dream houses they choose for themselves, is an illumination. It is more than just what altered art can be. It is a mirror held up concerning what humanity is, for us to see. It is what we are and can be.

The houses, which are named by each artist, ("A Family House", "The Wonderland House", etc.) unfold from the same template so the reader can see how they are set up and how the designs are arranged upon each one. There are artist's tips and explanations. There are lists of raw materials, such as fluid acrylics, jumbo rick rack, and rusted found objects.

There are many quotes in this book, some of which moved me intensely. Here is one: "home is heaven for beginners" --Channing Pollock.

The illustrations, which are by Alice Scott-Morris, bring everything together in a delightful way. It isn't cutesy, nor is it pretentious. It's a really nice job. A gift from a bunch of super artists.

You have to look long and hard at In This House, even study it, in a sense, for it to impart you all the potential there is has within it. That potential might help draw out the beauty you have within you. It is worth owning In This House, as it is a terrific book with a truly unique and lovely concept behind it.

5 out of 5 stars Love it!.......2007-08-10

I knew if it was written by Angela Cartwright and Sarah Fishburn it would be a good book. and this book goes way beyond those expectations! It's wonderful! Eye candy! Packed full of inspiration! You will read every square inch of the text and the visuals will greatly inspire you!

5 out of 5 stars An Innovative Spectacle of Delight!.......2007-07-21

At last, a ground breakng book in the world of mixed media! "In This House" takes you on a "home tour" unlike any you have ever experienced. The book is your tour guide into (to name a few) a stark, gothic mansion; a nostalgic family home; a French art studio; a crystal like, snow conservatory; a mosaic miasma of photographic delight. After the home tours of 13 innovative artists, you are allowed to peek into their heads and delight in some of the secrets that define their inimitable styles. Alluring photography, enticing artwork, and captivating writing are simply icing on the cake. Angela Cartwright and Sarah Fishburn are to be commended for introducing us to some new talent, as well as envisioning a book that blends art and technique without screaming "how to" instructions at its readers. Purchase your "ticket" to this home tour, and you're sure to fall in love with every house in the neighborhood.

5 out of 5 stars I Love In This House.......2007-07-21

I have thumbed and rethumbed through the pages of In This House. There are only positives as far as the eye can see. The illustrations throughout by Alice Scott Morris are magical, classical, and fanciful. They perfectly reflect the mood of the many houses of this "neighborhood" created by different artists in a variety of ways. As soon as I got a peek into the pages, I had to run to my studio and begin making a house. I loved the textured ones and started putting texture around my collaged, vintage photographs, added colored pencil and paint. It just took off. Then I was back to the book, soaking in more of the wonder. This is an altered artist's dream book. I long to have my friends help me to build a neighborhood, to sew the houses together into a journal of memories.
I can't say enough about how visually enticing this book is. It is totally addictive, in a very good way. I love Angela's and Sarah's neighborhood!
Layers: Inspired Collage for Paper Projects With Meaning
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • I love it!
  • A Treasure Trove
  • Awesome
  • Title is misleading
  • Wonderful
Layers: Inspired Collage for Paper Projects With Meaning
Shari Carroll
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mixed MediaMixed Media | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ScrapbookingScrapbooking | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1581807848

Book Description

Cutting-edge skills for sophisticated paper art designs!

*A primer on the hottest techniques that will appeal to scrapbookers, cardmakers, rubberstampers, and all papercrafters *Allows crafts to create amazing effects using collage, torn papers, embellishments, and cherished photos and quotes *Hundreds of tips and tricks reveal how to get remarkable results every time Today's paper art magazines showcase intricate layered pieces yet give little instruction on how to do it. Finally, Layers teaches papercrafters the skills they need to make these stylish projects. Expert designer Shari Carroll provides simple step-by-step directions for the latest paper techniques, including distressing, sewing, transfers, and much more. Readers receive a variety of ideas ranging from a wall hanging scrapbook page and an art journal to a collage book and CD book cover. Included are stunning examples of Carroll's own collage work, each of which feature unique and personal messages. She first shares details on what inspired each piece, then offers readers suggestions for customizing their own pieces.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I love it!.......2006-08-28

Shari's book is simply amazing! She uses so many different elements to create wonderful pieces of art! I love how she has put so much of herself into this book. It's like I know her!

Many of the items in her book, I have in my craft room. ANd I just love how she uses found objects in her project to create that collagy look to them. Makes me want to go out now to find items to use on my own projects! Although, I bet I can find the found objects in our garage right now!

Thank you for creating such a wonderful book!

5 out of 5 stars A Treasure Trove.......2006-08-28

Shari Carroll's book is a unique approach to collaging her life experiences. Rather than putting them all on pages in a scrapbook, she has chosen many creative objects to present them. There are so many, but some of them are chipboard made into a chalkboard, old electrical outlets to make accordian picture frames, matchstick boxes to make a collapsing case(template included), wire screen to make a booklet, a darling door hanging made out of chipboard circles, and brown paper bags to make a booklet. Of course, all of these are collaged with bought and found items.
As a crafter, I have the majority of the materials needed: papers, glues, brads, eyelets, stickers, all the tools except the Japanese screw punch(but I do have an awl), buttons, etc. Most people should have access to the found objects needed, such as brown paper bags, matchstick boxes, old electrical outlets, wire, old books, washers, old door knobs, etc. I do not have a wine case, but I do have some old wooden cannisters which would work for that project. With some creativity, many of these projects could be adapted to meet the artist's needs. I would have to buy the chalkboard spray but seldom do I start any new project without having to buy something.
As far as collaging with meaning, everything in this book that is collaged has deep meaning for the author. I love how she shares this meaning with the reader. Furthermore, many of the objects made can also be given as gifts to family and friends to honor them for being a part of her life. Kudos to Shari Carroll for a book well done.



5 out of 5 stars Awesome.......2006-08-26

I think this is a fantastic book for the beginning to above average crafter/artist. Of course if you are professional or very seasoned artist you probably already know the things in this book, so why would you be buying it? You'd be writing your own. For those of us budding artists that like or need inspiration and new ideas, this is the book to get!

1 out of 5 stars Title is misleading.......2006-08-19

From the title of this book, I thought there would be some intersting collage work represented. The word layers to me brings to mind gluing papers and painting glazes which create layers. On the contrary, the title is misleading. The book is definitely for scrapbookers, a book I never would have bought if I had seen it first. Every project requires many expensive materials, no found objects at all like you'd expect in a book that has Collage with Meaning in the title.

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful.......2006-08-17

This book is so amazing. You'll want to sit down and pour over every photograph and savor every little detail and LAYER of meaning. The author's love of life also shines through in the descriptions, making it a joy to read.

Best of all, the materials used to create the projects in the book are readily available.

Books:

  1. Putting People in Your Paintings
  2. Secrets to Drawing Realistic Faces
  3. Sultan Ibrahim Mirza's Haft Awrang: A Princely Manuscript from Sixteenth-Century Iran
  4. Take This Bread: A Radical Conversion
  5. The Big Book of Breasts
  6. The Chinese Brush Painting Bible: Over 200 Motifs With Step-by-Step Illustrated Instructions
  7. The Doubtful Guest
  8. The Draw 50 Way: How to Draw Cats, Puppies, Horses, Buildings, Birds, Aliens, Boats, Trains and Everything Else Under the Sun (Draw 50)
  9. The Enchanted Forest Chronicles: Dealing with Dragons / Searching for Dragons / Calling on Dragons / Talking to Dragons
  10. The Encyclopedia of Grasses for Livable Landscapes

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