With this book in one hand and a brush in the other, you can learn how to transform everyday furniture into something special, all for the price of a pot of paint. Annie Sloan is a paint legend and one of the world's most popular experts in the field of decorative painting. In Colour Recipes for Painted Furniture and more, Annie presents 40 new projects and ideas, showing you the easy way to update tired furniture and transform your home. Working with her own range of chalk paints, Annie shows how to mix colours and how to achieve certain looks. Whether your taste is for colourful boho chic or restrained Swedish hues, cosy and comforting rustic shades, a modern and contemporary approach or an elegant French look, here you will find a project to suit you. Start off by mastering the simple art of colourwashing, and work your way up to transfer printing, gilding, stencilling and glazing. There are even instructions for dyeing fabric using paint. As well as painting furniture, the projects range from a staircase painted in a rainbow of colours to stencilled walls, transforming floors with a coat of paint to dyeing linen curtains and even painting a vintage chandelier. Throughout the book, Annie offers expert tips, techniques, shortcuts and guidance, showing you the easy way to create a stylish home.

Georgian Dublin is synonymous with a period of unprecedented expansion in the market for luxury goods. At a time when new commodities, novel technologies and fashionable imports seduced elite society, silver enjoyed an established association with gentility and prestige. Earlier studies have focused predominantly on the issue of style. This book considers the demand for silver goods in Georgian Ireland from the perspectives of makers, retailers and consumers. It discusses the practical and symbolic uses of silverware, interpreted through contemporary guild accounts, inventories, trade ephemera and culinary manuscripts. For the first time the activities of Dublin's goldsmiths and their customers are considered in the context of the British Isles, acknowledging Dublin's 'second city' status in relation to London. How did the availability of new products like English porcelain and Sheffield Plate affect the demand for silver in Dublin, and how did silver imports from London affect the Dublin trade? To what extent do the practices of Dublin goldsmiths mirror their North American counterparts seeking to infer associations with the fashionable metropolis of London? Drawing on an extensive range of documentary and object evidence this wide-ranging analysis considers the context in which silver goods were made, used, valued and displayed in Georgian Ireland.

This is a new, revised edition of an essential book on pyrography. It offers updated with current work practices and an extended gallery of inspirational work from the very best pyrography artisans. It features 12 design projects that are presented in clear step-by-step process. This new revised edition of Stephen Poole's detailed guide to pyrography will be updated with some current work practices and an extended gallery of inspirational work from the very best pyrography artisans. Stephen's book comprehensively covers the subject from the history of the craft, materials and equipment required through to all the skills to create 'burnt wood art decoration'. Starting with basic tracing, Poole explores all the techniques to recreate lifelike textures and shading to conjure up inspiring images of nature, still-life and atmospheric scenes. The author gives indispensible instruction specifically on pyrography for woodturned objects and how to protect and finish the work. Projects include: rolling pin, wooden spoon, earrings, brooch, frame, key ring, jotter board, breadboard, cheese platter

Just as macrame homeware has been given a contemporary, stylish makeover in recent years, here, Isabella Strambio does the same with jewellery. Ideal for beginners, this book contains 20 contemporary jewellery and accessory projects, including necklaces, earrings, bracelets and headbands. Isabella is committed to working with sustainable materials, to ensure that these items can make you feel good, as well as look good. She gives advice on sizing and resizing the pieces to suit, and attaching jewellery findings, fastenings, beads and so on. As well as providing 20 wonderful designs, the book also covers the knots that are needed, making it ideal for beginners or people who are keen to give the craft a try and create some truly unique, truly sustainable jewellery pieces.

The saw is one of the most basic tools and tends to be taken very much for granted. Many hours and much effort can be saved, and more accurate work produced, if the user has the knowledge of how his saw works and how to keep it in good condition. In this book Ian Bradley provides detailed guidance on the use and maintenance of all types of saw, both hand and mechanical, from the humble junior hacksaw to circular and bandsaws, in the comprehensive and succinct manner that has made him such a respected writer on workshop matters.

The nineteenth century - the Era of the Interior - witnessed the steady displacement of art from the ceilings, walls, and floors of aristocratic and religious interiors to the everyday spaces of bourgeois households, subject to their own enhanced ornamentation. Following the 1863 Salon des refuses, the French State began to channel mediocre painters into the decorative arts. England, too, launched an extensive reform of the decorative arts, resulting in more and more artists engaged in the production and design of complete interiors. America soon followed. Present art historical scholarship - still indebted to a modernist discourse that sees cultural progress to be synonymous with the removal of ornament from both utilitarian objects and architectural spaces - has not yet acknowledged the importance of the decorative arts in the myriad interior spaces of the 1800s. Nor has mainstream art history reckoned with the importance of the interior in nineteenth-century life and thought. Aimed at an interdisciplinary audience, including art and design historians, historians of the modern interior, interior designers, visual culture theorists, and scholars of nineteenth-century material culture, this collection of essays studies the modern interior in new ways. The volume addresses the double nature of the modern interior as both space and image, blurring the boundaries between arts and crafts, decoration and high art, two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, trompe-l'oeil effects and spatial practices. In so doing, it redefines the modern interior and its objects as essential components of modern art.

Furniture Studio explores the origins, methods, results, and influence of the unique and highly successful furniture design and fabrication studios offered by the University of Washington Department of Architecture. The furniture program, initiated by Andris Vanags, is an immersion into the role of materials, design, and making in architectural education. Students directly engage the physical properties of materials, and the knowledge gained through this engagement enriches the design and fabrication process. The experiences of its graduates reveal that the studio fosters creative thinking that truly integrates design and making. Ochsner presents historical background to shop-based courses, including furniture studio; traces the careers of four representative graduates of the program; and suggests implications from this program for architectural education and individual achievement beyond the University of Washington. Eleven students and the projects they created in the winter 2009 studio are profiled, and the book contains a fully illustrated catalogue of exemplary student projects from 1989 to the present. Illustrations and descriptions throughout the book showcase the heirloom-quality projects created by the students, many of which won awards in competitions.

The cowboy was an integral part of the old west. Much of life in those times revolved around him. Not only did he act as a cow nurse, herding, driving, and branding, but he also stacked hay, and built corrals and barns. He should be remembered too for his dedicated defense of the brand he rode for, even in the face of death. The Saturday night shindigs wouldn't have been the same without him either. Most cowboys couldn't dance a lick, but as long as that little gal was in his arms, who cared what the feet were doing! These cowboys were tough men. They were independent but when needed they were there. A rare breed! To carve these qualities into a face is indeed a challenge. Bob Lundy takes the carver through three projects, The Cowboy, The Indian, and The Mountain Man. With informative instructions (laced with a good deal of humor) and clear photographs he goes from the raw wood to a finished, realistic portrayal of these characters of the old west. A gallery of 16 other figures is included to give the reader other ideas. This book is written for both the beginner, who is looking for complete how-to information from start to finish, and for the veteran, who is interested only in a tip here and there to improve their work. Lundy approaches his work with an eye for the personality of the characters. He will instill that sensitivity to the reader, giving the carver a feeling of closeness and intimacy with the people who emerge from the wood.

This volume brings together a cross-disciplinary group of anthropologists, researchers of craft, and designer-makers to enumerate and explore the diversity and complexity of problem-solving tactics and strategies employed by craftspeople, together with the key social, cultural, and environmental factors that give rise to particular ways of problem solving. Presenting rich, textured ethnographic studies of craftspeople at work around the world, Craftwork as Problem Solving examines the intelligent practices involved in solving a variety of problems and the ways in which these are perceived and evaluated both by makers and creators themselves, and by the societies in which they work. With attention to local factors such as training regimes and formal education, access to tools, socialisation and cultural understanding, budgetary constraints and market demands, changing technologies and materials, and political and economic regimes, this book sheds fresh light on the multifarious forms of intelligence involved in design and making, inventing and manufacturing, and cultivating and producing. As such, it will appeal to scholars of anthropology, sociology, and cultural geography, as well as to craftspeople with interests in creativity, skilful practice, perception and ethnography.

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.

Chess pieces and their boards are a thing of beauty that serious players often like to display around their home. The 15 one of a kind designs in this book are sure to become conversation pieces. The use of exotic woods and interesting designs will inspire woodworkers, chess players and scroll saw enthusiasts alike. Chess pieces and their boards are a thing of beauty that serious players often like to display around their home. The 15 one of a kind designs in this book are sure to become conversation pieces, like the Berlin, with its vertical board that mounts to the wall. Other patterns in the book are inspired by the beautiful cities of Paris, San Francisco and Venice. From classical to modern these chess sets will be cherished for years to come for their heirloom quality and high level of craftsmanship. The author's use of exotic woods and interesting designs are sure to inspire woodworkers, chess players and scroll saw enthusiasts alike.

Light and decorative yet strong and robust, wire art is the perfect way to add handmade charm to any room. Finally, you'll be able to learn the craft of wire art using inexpensive floral wire to create 21 eye-catching projects, all with easy-to-follow diagrams and clear instructions. Once you know the basic techniques, you'll be able to make personalized wire art sculptures to decorate your home or office, or gift to someone you love! From free-standing flamingos to delicate flowers for vases, start a new, inexpensive hobby that's tailored to you!

Here is an exciting foray into the world of the artist-blacksmith. Dona Z. Meilach discovers the growing numbers of men and women who revel in lighting up a forge and shaping hot, malleable iron into beautiful, useful objects. Blacksmiths today make both monumental and modest architectural accompaniments, from public art to an infinite number of items we encounter every day. With this book, you will gain an appreciation of the medium and its creators, and realize that blacksmiths do much more than shoe horses. Over 480 color photographs highlight objects for indoor and outdoor use, including fences, railings, gates, doors, sculpture, furniture, lighting fixtures, candleholders, and more. Some are truly modern in style while others are inspired by historical references, such as Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Craftsman, and Victorian styles. Today's blacksmiths, designers, artists, and homeowners will find unparalleded inspiration for creating unique yet practical surroundings.

'Loving Lebus' encapsulates the changing styles of furniture over time. With comprehensive notes placing Lebus furniture in context the author has selected the best of the firm's advertisements, catalogue images, photographs and Lebus furniture pieces today. Antique and vintage - Lebus furniture is enjoying a resurgence. We are once again, 'Loving Lebus'. Paul has nurtured a passion for all things Lebus. His first book 'Harris Lebus: A Romance with the Furniture Trade' went behind the scenes to look into how Lebus furniture was made. Now the Lebus story is complete - 'Loving Lebus: Looking into Harris Lebus Furniture' is another labour of love.

Dick Sing has directed his creative wood turning skills to the design of six attractive projects with variations. Three variations of bottle stoppers and decorative jar lids can transform the practical into the beautiful. The weed vase and the small mirror can make charming gifts; the spinning top and baby rattle will delight any young child. Instructions for each project along with step-by-step photographs make these fun projects easy to learn and fun to do. Variations provide a challenge for the more experienced turners,and a gallery with numerous examples encourages the adventurous to experiment.

Now available in paperback, this book devotes itself exclusively to rings, considering them thematically rather than chronologically. The author, a world expert, has rich historical and literary knowledge. As she considers rings in all their forms she makes us delight in them as works of art, and makes their context come alive through paintings, drawings and vivid quotations.

With over 500 color photographs, this thorough text introduces the reader to the wide variety of decoys currently available, decoys made earlier in the century by "old time" artists as well as examples of contemporary design. The construction and special attributes of fishing decoys are discussed in detail, information vital to recognising the most collectible decoys. Detailed histories of early twentieth century and contemporary decoy makers of Minnesota and their decoys has been compiled through personal interviews with the makers or their families. Information is also provided on spear makers and the varying designs of their spears, jigging sticks, and decoy boxes. This is a truly valuable reference work.

Making wooden boxes is one of the best ways to develop overall proficiency in woodworking. Boxes are relatively quick to build, require only a small amount of material, and can be made in the smallest of woodshops. And, of course, they make wonderful gifts

In this all-new collection of boxes from one of America s premier box makers, Doug Stowe shows how to design and build eight distinctive boxes, ranging from a Greene & Greene-style jewelry box to a letter box with sloping lid reminiscent of a Jefferson lap desk. Each box illustrates a key design principle such as harmony, rhythm, texture, or contrast and includes one or two design variations.

The focus of the book will be on giving the reader creative license to make boxes that are more personal in design. But all design issues aside, this will be a book of beautiful boxes that woodworkers of all levels will be eager to build."

Why did the Vikings sail to England? Were they indiscriminate raiders, motivated solely by bloodlust and plunder? One narrative, the stereotypical one, might have it so. But locked away in the buried history of the British Isles are other, far richer and more nuanced, stories; and these hidden tales paint a picture very different from the ferocious pillagers of popular repute. In this book, Eleanor Parker unlocks secrets that point to more complex motivations within the marauding army that in the late-9th century voyaged to the shores of eastern England in its sleek, dragon-prowed longships. Exploring legends from forgotten medieval texts, and across the varied Anglo-Saxon regions, she depicts Vikings who came not just to raid but also to settle personal feuds, intervene in English politics and find a place to call home. Native tales reveal the links to famous Vikings like Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons, Cnut, and Havelok the Dane. Each myth shows how the legacy of the newcomers can still be traced in landscape, place-names and local history. Meticulously researched and elegantly argued, Dragon Lords uncovers the remarkable degree to which England is Viking to its core.

The elegant yet practical chrome and brass houseware specialties created by Chase Brass & Copper Company during the 1930s are synonymous with Art Deco. Reprinted here for the first time are the company's 1934 and 1935 catalogs, issued at the height of Deco's popularity. Objects by such industrial design pioneers as Lurelle Guild, Walter Von Nessen, Russel Wright and Harry Laylon are pictured, with full descriptions, inventory information, and current price guide. Introductory comments are by Leslie Pina and Donald-Brian Johnson, co-authors of Higgins: Adventures in Glass and the forthcoming book on Chase Chrome. Their remarks focus on Chase's contribution to Art Deco style, Chase history, and the unique features of each catalog. A must have for Deco collectors, as well as all admirers of 20th century decorative arts.

Individualistic and unusual jewelry designs do not need to be expensive. Renate Bosshart demonstrates over 100 designs, made with simple techniques. The results are amazing, unique pieces that will complete any woman's wardrobe with startling effects. The design palette ranges from simple to extravagant, from carefree to richly precious. The book is illustrated with elegant photographs in twelve chapters. Easy to follow, step by step instructions are included, which, combined with the reader's own creativity, lead to delightful and beautiful handcrafted jewelry.

In 1940, the Baker Furniture Company of Holland and Grand Rapids, Michigan published a catalog of their hand-finished 18th century reproduction furniture. It was filled with examples and information about their craft. This edition has illustrations of over 600 reproductions, with information about dimensions, materials, and the provenance of the design. With a current price guide this is a great tool for the collector, dealer, or designer.