Crafts and Decorative arts

There is much discussion among artisans when it comes to improving the cutting behavior of tools quickly and permanently, but the debate is settled here, where expert engineers and master craftsmen prove the benefits of sharpening blades and tools using methods based on time-tested Japanese water stone grinding techniques. Learn through detailed instructions how to get perfect edges on your chisel

More than 300 colorful photos and behind-the-scenes details reveal the fascinating story of Japan's cotton and indigo, and their enormous contribution to fiber arts worldwide. Learn how Japan and its top fabric designers, quilters, scientists, and artists combinetradition and high tech to weave the thread, fabrics, and stunningdesigns that are so coveted in today's fiber art world. Take a tour of

This long-awaited guide serves as a tool to explain the general principles of natural dyeing, and to help dyers to become more accomplished at their craft through an increased understanding of the process. Photos of more than 450 samples demonstrate the results of actual dye tests, and detailed information covers every aspect of natural dyeing including theory, fibers, mordants, dyes, printing, or

An accessible and easy-to-use guide to the principles and elements of jewelry design, this resource helps jewelry makers of all skill levels take their designs from good to great. Instructor and expert Loretta Lam offers guidance on working with a wide array of materials, along with exercises to help you explore new design concepts before applying them to your work directly. Dozens of stunning exa

The history, legacy, and boundless creativity of weavers over the centuries is the base in this helpful guide for new weavers, seasoned tapestry artists, and enthusiasts. Tapestry weaving is an art form that has been around since antiquity, and these insights from renowned artist Jean Pierre Larochette offer 30 traditional techniques built upon weavers' centuries of work. A fourth-generation Frenc

A one-of-a-kind garland lets you drape your world with beautiful, colorful Art for Joy's Sake! With the included quality watercolor paint and wooden brush, enjoy painting the cards, then string them on the enclosed ribbon to create unlimited greetings and decoration for any special day. Printed on deluxe-quality watercolor stock for lovely results, the ready-to-paint cards feature the letters of t

Following on from her textile hit Slow Stitch, author Claire Wellesley-Smith considers the importance of connection and ideas around wellbeing when using textiles for individuals and communities, including practical ideas around ‘thinking-through-making’, using ‘resonant’ materials and extending the life of pieces using traditional and non-traditional methods. Contemporary textile artists using

The second in a series of seasonal watercoloring books based on artist Kristy Rice'scutting gardens, this book celebrates summer's languid blossoms such as anemone, hollyhocks, coneflowers, and fuchsia. Her easy-to-learn,joy-driven approach includes simple tutorials on how to use watercolorand where to find affordable materials. A stationery-industrytastemaker, Kristy believes that making art, reg

The third in a series of seasonal watercoloring books based on artist Kristy Rice's cutting gardens, this book celebrates autumn's vibrant blossoms such as asters, zinnias, torch lilies, and chrysanthemums. Her easy-to-learn, joy-driven approach includes simple tutorials on how to use watercolor and where to find affordable materials. A stationery-industry tastemaker, Kristy believes that making a

The fourth in a series of seasonal watercoloring books based on artist Kristy Rice's cutting gardens, this book celebrates winter's blossoms such as amaryllis, hollyberry, hellebores, and snowdrops. Her easy-to-learn, joy-driven approach includes simple tutorials on how to use watercolor and where to find affordable materials. A stationery-industry tastemaker, Kristy believes that making art, rega

Create sustainable clothing that fits you perfectly and makes you feel wonderful when wearing it.Even if you've never done it before, making your own clothing can be easy and fun—and sustainable, if you use recycled fabrics! Using only five paper patterns, you’ll find clear how-tos on techniques and instructions for 50 garments to make. There are plenty of projects perfect for beginners, with easy

You'll appreciate your favorite Nordic patterns in a new way.Nordic knitting designs have long enchanted the world. What makes their allure and beauty so timeless? The answer is fascinating, and author Annemor Sundbø, known as "Norway's Sweater Detective," welcomes you on a wild ride to discover it. She's the foremost expert on the subject of these designs' history and evolution and reveals how th

An abundance of step-by-step fiber art projects to bring Scandinavian style to life in your home.

This adventure meets the needs of two passionate audiences: fiber artists and Nordic craft enthusiasts. By exploring the cultures and traditions behind the charm of these crafts, fans can enjoy extra-meaningful making.