An inspirational workbook for complete beginners to discover and master the art of the brush. Kirsten Burke's Secrets of Brush Calligraphy is a uniquely creative and interactive book for anyone wishing to learn how to create stylish and decorative hand-lettered works of art using brush calligraphy. This book brings together the methods and practices taught in Kirsten's workshops, through easy-to-follow, enjoyable projects that will build your brush calligraphy confidence. Includes: - Tips, tricks and techniques for writing with a brush pen or paintbrush. - Calligraphy projects to build your skills. - Removable art cards, hand-lettered by Kirsten Burke to pull out, complete and treasure. Kirsten Burke is a world-renowned calligraphic artist and teacher. Kirsten is the 'Master Calligrapher' for luxury brands including Jo Malone, Tom Ford and Creme de la Mer and clients like the BBC, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Rolls Royce. Her best-selling greetings cards, wedding stationery and calligraphy kits can be found in high street shops, online and overseas, and her sell-out calligraphy workshops for adults and children are run from her beautiful industrial studios in West Sussex.

Make professional-looking metal jewellery and accessories without investing in silversmithing tools, equipment and training, with this essential guide to working with precious metal clay. Metal clay is a magical material: real metal in clay form that can be modelled and then fired to turn it into pure metal. It has taken the crafting world by storm in the past 20 years and its versatility and accessibility means it is used by professional jewellery makers and hobbyists alike. Metal clay is available in many different types - silver, copper, bronze and even steel. It can be sculpted, modelled, moulded, rolled into sheets, cut into shapes, woven, braided and carved to produce an endless array of forms and effects. Equipment needed is minimal and you will probably have most of the simple tools in your home already. This book concentrates on silver clay which is the easiest kind to use because it can be fired without a kiln. After drying the clay, it is fired using either a small blow torch, a gas hob, or camping gas and in five minutes or less the clay becomes pure 999 silver that can be hallmarked. This book will show you how to master all the basic techniques of working with metal clay while later chapters cover more advanced techniques. Twenty gorgeous projects are shown in detail with clear step-by-step photographs. There are pendants, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, charms, brooches, beads, cufflinks and rings and many of the projects give alternative ideas for developing your skills. Embellishment techniques are shown in detail from setting stones and gilding to enamelling with resin, adding inlay, engraving, and oxidising for luscious colours. Whatever your skill level and whatever your craft style you will find this a rich and inspiring guide with tried-and-tested techniques explained in detail, as well as the cutting edge of metal clay creativity and materials. A few projects that need kiln firing are given at the end of the book to show what can be achieved if you decide to go further with this fabulous material. Author Sue Heaser is a prolific crafter who has written over 18 books on the subjects of jewellery making, polymer clay, metal clay and miniatures. Her expert guidance will give even the beginner the confidence and the inspiration to start a love affair with metal clay and all its creative possibilities.

This is a detailed study of the illustrations to Amir Khusrau's Khamsah, in which twenty discourses are followed by a brief parable, and four romances. Amir Khusrau (1253-1325) lived the greater part of adventurous life in Delhi; he composed in Persian, and also in Hindi. From the point of view of manuscript illustration, his most important work is his Khamsah (Quintet'). Khusrau's position as a link between cultures of Persia and India means that the early illustrated copies of the Khamsah have a particular interest. The first extant exemplar is from the Persian area in the late 14th century, but a case can be made that work was probably illustrated earlier in India.

This title features 24 step-by-step projects of varying difficulty, appealing to a range of abilities. It includes all the practical knowledge needed to get started. It includes inspirational photographs shot in the scenic Lake District. Brighten up your wardrobe, mark the changing seasons and make your own fabulous jewellery using nature as your guide. In this imaginative new book, stunning photography provides the inspiration for 24 unique and stylish pieces of jewellery that capture the beauty of nature throughout the year. Most projects are easy enough for complete beginners but intermediate and advanced jewellery-makers will also be inspired by these strikingly original designs and gorgeous photography.

Louis Comfort Tiffany was highly skilled in jewellery design, ceramics, enamels, and metalwork but he is best known for his beautiful stained-glass designs. Using opalescent glass in a variety of colours and textures, he created a stunning range of jewel-like Art Nouveau works that influenced much of American modern art. This sumptuous new book features page after page of astounding work, showing Tiffany's skill as a colourist and a craftsman, with works that still inspire artists and audiences today.

In Modern Calligraphy, internationally acclaimed designer Molly Suber Thorpe teaches you how to create your own contemporary pointed pen calligraphy, breaking down the process into simple steps with the help of over 250 colour photographs and illustrations for easy guidance. With step-by-step instructions and simple tips, Modern Calligraphy includes: - 20 inspirational projects for weddings, entertainment and personal stationery - Guidance on use of pen and ink, watercolour and gouache - How to digitise your calligraphy - Special instructions for left-handed calligraphers With stunning ideas, careful guided practice and Molly's helpful tips, Modern Calligraphy can help anyone create their own gorgeous calligraphy pieces.

"...here's eye candy on every page of the book." - Natural Diamonds This sumptuous book showcases the work of women jewellers in the 20th century. Beginning with Arts & Crafts jewellers in Britain, Europe and North America, the author then examines the key figures and movements of the pre-war period including Coco Chanel's legendary 'Bijoux de Diamants' exhibition of 1932, the designs of Suzanne Belperron and the roles of Jeanne Toussaint at Cartier and Renee Puissant at Van Cleef & Arpels. From the 1950s to the present day, a wide range of international designers are examined in detail with many examples of their work clearly illustrated. The author focuses on themes associated with jewellery, including colour, light, proportion, nature and legends. Among the many names included are Vivianna Torun Bulow-Hube (designer for Georg Jensen), Margaret De Patta, Wendy Ramshaw, Angela Cummings, Paloma Picasso, Marina B, Lydia Courteille and Michelle Ong. Jewellery firms include: Boivin, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Jensen, Tiffany & Co. Designers featured: Alma Pihl, Coco Chanel, Suzanne Belperron, Juliette Moutard, Olga Tritt, Elisabeth Treskow, Margaret de Patta, Jeanne Toussaint, Line Vautrin, Margret Craver, Vivianna Torun Bulow-Hube, Nanna Ditzel, Marianne Ostier, Barbara Anton, Gerda Floeckinger, Astrid Fog, Cornelia Roethel, Catherine Noll, Angela Cummings, Elsa Peretti, Wendy Ramshaw, Marina B, Marie-Caroline de Brosses, Marilyn Cooperman, Paloma Picasso, Victoire de Castellane, Alexandra Mor, Ornella Iannuzzi, Neha Dani, Paula Crevoshay, Nathalie Castro, Claire Choisne, Bina Goenka, Carla Amorim, Monique Pean, Michelle Ong - Carnet, Kara Ross, Lydia Courteille, Suzanne Syz, Sylvie Corbelin, Kaoru Kay Akihara - Gimel, Katey Brunini, Luz Camino, Cindy Chao, Aida Bergsen, Anna Hu, Barbara Heinrich, Jacqueline Cullen, Cynthia Bach.

This inspirational book features over 35 master jewelry designers, organized alphabetically. Hailing from Australia, Brazil, France, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Russia, Turkey, the UK and USA, they represent a wide variety of approaches, from Aida Bergsen's flora and fauna-inspired designs, including emerald- studded frogs and diamond- encrusted salamanders; through Anabela Chan's exquisitely detailed laser-cut brooches of white gold and platinum with iridescent diamonds and natural grey pearls; to Elie Top's yellow gold spheres that are a feat of mathematical precision and ingenuity. Red-carpet customers and fans include Beyonce, Gwyneth Paltrow, Salma Hayek, Madonna and Michelle Obama. Each designer is introduced with a biography that highlights their working practices and key sources of inspiration. Illustrations include sketches as well as images of glorious finished designs, all of which are unique and many of which are bespoke. Complete with an introduction, a useful glossary and notes of designers' websites (some work by appointment only), this is the perfect, curated resource for both aficionados and professionals who wish to view the craftsmanship of some of the most visionary practitioners working in the field of fine jewelry today

In the dynamic first quarter of the 20th century, Louis Comfort Tiffany and his Tiffany Studios in New York City produced 24 distinctly different bronze desk-set patterns with nearly 1,000 different items sold separately, so that successful business leaders could decide which and how many they could arrange on their desks. The typical set might include inkwell, pen tray, paper rack, rocker blotter, and decorative ends for the desk blotter. Some patterns have a dozen or fewer items, but a few patterns have about 80 items available. Over 600 color photographs show most of the desk set items, with carefully researched text, including their Tiffany item numbers, markings, sizes, related pieces, and rarity, and an indispensible Master List of all the original Tiffany Studios items, including lamps, planters, match holders, etc., in numerical order. It will help to identify pieces never seen before and mismatched and put-together items. This is the most comprehensice collecting guide to the subject..

Join the latest craze - creating fantastic fashion accessories using paracord rope! This exciting book contains step by step instructions with accompanying photographs for creating over 30 different projects. The basic techniques on how to create a braiding board are explained in detail as well as adjusting length for items such as bracelets. There are designs that will appeal to boys and girls, as well as your favourite pet! Projects include: Cobra bracelet, Spiral keyring, Shark jawbonedog collar, Dragonlfy clips, Globe knot necklace.

An impressive array of furniture, most never seen in print before, comprise this new study of American cabinetmakers and their furniture from the Victorian through the Modern eras. More than 500 photographs illustrate design elements that make this furniture distinctive and attractive to a wide audience today. From Rennaissance Revival to Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modern forms, the furniture shown here has had an impact on the history of interior design worldwide.

The Day of the Dead is a festival of culture and youth, a feast of the senses and celebration of life in death. Originating in Mexico and the Latin American countries it began as a way of remembering departed relatives, as a means of embracing rather than fearing death. The beautiful rituals, the sugar skulls, the costumes and the festivities have grown into a massive counter culture across the western world. Art, movies, cartoons and literature have been consumed by the brilliant power of the Day of the Dead, tendered here in this lively new book, following Tattoo Art and Street Art, the latest title in Flame Tree's hugely successful Inspiration and Technique series.

The ultimate collector's resource, including hundreds of pieces by both well- and lesser-known designers from around the world. From armchairs and chaises longues to cabinets and nightstands, the period between the late 1930s and early 1970s was one of the most productive, inventive and exciting eras for objects and furniture in the home. Post-war optimism combined with new manufacturing methods and material techniques to create an explosion of new design and objects of desire. The appetite for mid-century modern remains as strong as ever, both for classic designs - many still in production since they were launched - and for rare, hard-to- find or out-of-production pieces from lesser-known designers. While numerous books surveying mid-century modern style have appeared over the years, no publication has been specifically conceived for the increasing collector's market in mid-century modern design, focusing on each piece of furniture as an object of formal invention, manufacturing intelligence and material innovation. This definitive book profiles hundreds of pieces in a substantial format perfect for reference in design libraries, studios and the homes of private collectors - or as an object of design in its own right. Each item of furniture is presented in detail, illustrated in colour and profiled via in-depth descriptive texts by Dominic Bradbury. The book's substantial reference section includes essays on materials (eg, plywood) and designer profiles. Work by a host of influential talents is profiled throughout, alongside lesser-known pieces by Piet Hein, Bruno Mathsson, Lina Bo Bardi and Alexander Girard.

This bumper edition of Aidan Meehan's practical guides to the art and design of the Celts brings together three of his bestselling titles, A Beginner's Manual, Knotwork and Illuminated Letters. This practical, step-by-step manual provides an invaluable, comprehensive source of instruction and inspiration for artists, designers and craftspeople of all kinds.

Ancient Worlds, Modern Beads brings the themes of ancient Rome, Greece and Egypt completely up to date for the modern beadweaver, combining the styles of genuine artefacts and the essence of ancient art with tiny seed beads. Ten designs from each region showcase the colours, patterns, and styles easily recognised in the precious artefacts displayed in the world's museums. Each project is directly inspired by these classical cultures-from mythology and daily life, to the materials used by ancient artisans. As one of the most popular mediums of the arts and crafts movement, beadweaving has a broad appeal with crafters and designers. Mortira Natasha vanPelt provides both new and experienced beaders with a gorgeous palette of techniques for stunning jewellery. Each chapter includes: Introduction to the themes and styles of the region-along with examples of modern interpretations of the style Ten projects ranging in skill level from easy to advanced, with step-by-step instructions

Resin craft is an exciting way to make jewellery and other accessories. Learn how to create everything from earrings to key rings with this definitive guide to resin craft. This collection of techniques will get you started on your resin journey even if you've never tried it before and, if you do have some experience, there are 17 inspirational projects to make. Resin craft offers so many possibilities to create original jewellery and accessories that will amaze your family and friends, and it is easy to do at home with just a small number of tools and materials. This collection is packed full of step-by-step instructions for techniques such as mixing and pouring resin, creating your own moulds, and how to use pigments and inks. Author Mia Winston-Hart also explains how to use botanicals with resin, and she has advice for how to source and prepare your own botanicals for really bespoke pieces, with instructions for drying your own flowers and plants. There is comprehensive information about all the safety issues surrounding resin craft and the author explores the various different types of resin available including plant and vegetable-based resins, and how to choose and use them safely. There are also instructions on how to create your own moulds alongside the different resin techniques, as well as 17 eye-catching resin projects. All of the projects are accompanied by step-by-step photography so you can see exactly what to do at each stage. Choose your favourite from this collection which includes floral earrings; heat proof coasters, a beach scene tray, a galaxy themed table top, a shell comb, a flower and gold leaf keyring, glittery hair clips and a floral phone case. Some of the many techniques covered include: sanding, deep pouring, making your own moulds, how to avoid bubbles in your work, de-moulding, mixing and pouring, working with different layers, and drying and preserving botanicals. There are comprehensive step-by-step instructions for the projects including how to add jewellery findings, as well as working with different moulds and materials. There is even a trouble shooting section so you can iron out any problems once you start putting your newfound skills into practise.

Celebrate the splendor of wood with these wood-crafting projects. From simple woven panels to making a functional yurt, Woodland Craft features an array of easy-to-follow projects that include crafts for the farm, garden, wood fuel, building and domestic use. Green wood - wood that has been recently cut and is therefore still moisture-rich - is the predominant material used in the projects featured in this essential guide for craftsman of all levels. With Woodland Craft: you'll learn all you need to know about tools and devices, both old and new. you'll browse through the directory of tree species and identify the best uses for each. you'll gain the insight you need to make practically anything out of this clean, crisp, beautiful element. Includes 700 illustrations and photographs

When the stresses of modern life get too much, what could be better than gathering a few simple tools, heading into the woods and literally whittling away a few hours? The gentle art of whittling is a relaxing and absorbing hobby that can be enjoyed almost anywhere from round the campfire to in a cozy armchair at home. All you need is a good pocket knife, a piece of wood and your imagination. Projects can range from the delightfully simple to impressively intricate--it's up to you. Woodland Whittling guides you through the basics explaining what equipment you need, how to hold the knife, and what timber to use. The projects are then all described in detail with clear step-by-step photographs. Projects include: letter opener, thumb stick, ring tree and egg cup.