Once again, Dick Sing makes his mark with his high quality, beautiful pens and pencils. Sharing his skill and expertise at the wood lathe, he teaches you how to make something more than a mere instrument for writing-this is art, a keepsake, a great gift, something to make the turner proud. In his first book on pen turning, Sing provided basic instructions and lots of helpful tips. This book also provides the basics, adding new kinds of pens and variations on some of the old favorites. Tips are given for ways to work with challenging materials or grain alignments to create spectacular results. Dick details methods which make beautiful pens time after time. More than 260 photographs and detailed instructions advise the turner on more than a dozen variations, plus there are sections on the special equipment he has modified to make pen turning easier and improve the quality. A gallery of pens provides inspiration for variety and creativity.

This comprehensive volume is an essential and invaluable reference source for every glass enthusiast. It contains over 3,000 alphabetized definitions of glassware, colors, processes, materials, forms, decorative styles, pattern motifs, noted artisans, companies, and designers, from antiquity to the present. The glass world is overdue for a resource that is up-to-date and unique in its field. This clear, concise, and easily readable guide includes both highly technical jargon and common terminology. The thorough use of cross-referencing between related subjects provides an extensive overview of specific glass-related topics.

Accomplished carver and teacher Cleve Taylor takes to the hills, carving mountain men of years gone by. With clear, concise instructions-illustrated with over 225 color photographs, Cleve guides wood carvers through every step and tool needed to make these popular figures from the past. Once the basswood figure is carved, instructions are also provided to paint and antique the completed figure. Patterns are included with the instructions to carve both the mountain man and his long rifle. The mountain man presented here is a challenge for the carver with a course or two under the belt and a delight for the more advanced wood carver.

Here is a fascinating study of commercial glass production along the Ohio River Valley in the 1950s and 1960s. Companies such as Blenko, Pilgrim, Rainbow, Viking, Kanawaha, Bischiff, Morgantown, and others made free- and mold-blown production glass in modern, sometimes bizarre shapes and wildly vibrant colors. Over 100 new images have been added to this revised and expanded second edition, for a total of over 530 color photographs of the beautiful glass, its labels, catalog pages, company histories. An updated price guide provides valuable insight into today's marketplace.

The female face and the female figure have been drawn, sculpted, carved and painted by artists and craftsmen from around the world for centuries. In this book and DVD, author and teacher Ian Norbury offers his expertise and experience to help carvers take on the challenge of presenting the female face and figure in wood. Inside, readers will find tips for creating patterns, in depth anatomical drawings for better understanding of the body's muscles, step-by-step projects with detailed photos and instructions and a photo gallery of finished projects to illuminate and inspire.

In 1813 Charles James Mason gave the public just what they needed, patenting his "ironstone china." This durable yet beautiful dinnerwarewas stronger and less expensive than the china that then dominated the market. And its white, unadorned base soon became popular as a canvas for decorations such as Flow Blue, Mulberry, and Copper Lustre, especially the Tea Leaf motif. This pictorial and collectors' guide provides an alphabetic listing of all known shapes and their makers, illustrated with more than 700 color photographs to help easily identify pieces and show the ironstone in detail never seen before. Collectors will find this cross-referencing tool invaluable. Included is also a miscellaneous chapter, which brings to new light the unusual and hard to find pieces and a section devoted entirely to children's sets. Color photographs of makers' marks are identified and dated to aid those wishing to date their pieces.

This comprehensive study combines a fantastic historical account with exciting, newly-discovered examples. Art pottery and tiles from the Weller, Roseville, J.B. Owens, and related companies were made variously from 1872 to 1967 in Zanesville, Ohio. The authors studied many private collections to find fresh designs and shapes in this highly popular collecting field. This reference provides in one volume a full account of the companies, shapes, glaze lines, and values on today's market.

The Ashmolean Museum houses one of the most extensive collections of wood engravings in the world. The collection effectively began with the gift in 1964, by Arthur Mitchell, of over 3,000 prints, including a large group of wood engravings. During the 1980s and 1990s, it expanded remarkably with acquisitions of large groups of prints, often as gifts from the artists, resulted in a succession of monographic exhibitions on some of the most important wood engravers. They included John Farleigh (1986), John Buckland Wright (1990), Clare Leighton (1992), Monica Poole (1993) and Anne Desmet (1998). A key point in this period of expansion was the acquisition of a comprehensive body of work by Gertrude Hermes and Blair Hughes-Stanton in 1995 from the artists' family, which resulted in a memorable exhibition organised by Katharine Eustace. More recently, the Ashmolean has formed a close partnership with the SWE, and has been keeping the collection up to date by acquiring work by members, both at the Society's annual exhibition and privately.

From Anchor Hocking's Manhattan pattern to Carder and Teague designs for Steuben, all of the major American companies who made Art Deco glass during the Depression Era-Cambridge, Consolidated, Duncan, Fostoria, Heisey, Libbey, Morgantown, Tiffin, and many others-are presented in this long-awaited book. With more than 350 color photos of both popular and rare examples, informative captions with values, plus patent drawings, company information, a bibliography, and a detailed index, this book will delight anyone interested in this highly collectible American glassware or in the Art Deco style.

This UK author's designs are stylish & quirky & move beyond the traditional shapes in shops today. In this unique and comprehensive book, Chris West covers all aspects of turning these useful condiment holders and demonstrates how practical kitchen utensils can be transformed into beautiful, stylish and tactile additions to your home. 30 projects are rated in order of difficulty, from beginner, through to intermediate and advanced, the latter not solely based on the skills of the turner, but also on access to the materials or machinery required for the project. A basic level of turning is assumed, together with the availability of a chuck with compression jaws. Chris finds inspiration in many diverse objects, whether glass, metal or ceramics and creates unique and quirky designs, which move beyond the traditional shapes in retail shops today.

The essential guide to the smoke firing method with highlights from international artists' work. Smoke firing is an ancient technique, used both to fire raw clay into durable ceramic and also to decorate it with smoke designs. Its technological simplicity not only lends itself to endless interpretations but encourages artistic creativity through improvisation and experimentation. Smoke Firing is a thorough survey of the varied work and approaches of contemporary artists today, showing recent innovative developments. By investigating the ideas of selected ceramicists Jane Perryman reveals the meanings and inspiration behind their work. Clear and colourful images demonstrate the various processes used, showing sequences of artists in action. The book covers smoke firing using bonfires, various containers, earth pits, saggars, and kilns, with a chapter on how smoke firing can be used as an educational tool in groups and workshops. Dynamic illustrations feature the work of the 29 artists represented, from 17 different countries, making it a truly international focus on smoke firing.

Conceived of by artist Amy Goldin, "flowstones" are crafted by moulding a sheet of polymer clay around a smooth river rock. With a beauty all of their own, they impart a sense of calm to the holder, grounded by the weight and soothed by the smooth surface. In Flowstones, Goldin shares photographs of the stones she has created and includes step-by-step illustrated instructions so we can all enjoy creating these delightful objects.

Featuring the fine collection of 17th century to 19th century Spanish and Mexican maiolica at the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe, this book explores and celebrates Spanish traditional ceramics of Old and New Spain. Renowned ceramic expert Florence C. Lister and archaeologist Robert H. Lister studies one hundred and forty-four examples of historical maiolica in what is the first study of its kind tracing the decorative styles, influences and innovations in a ceramic tradition that is almost a millennium old.

This inspiring book provides a wealth of fascinating projects for woodturners. It will extend their skills and give them a chance to try more unusual, challenging pieces. The book reflects the author's fascination with complex geometrical shapes, puzzles and mathematical curiosities. It gives woodturners the chance to try their hand at making twisted polygons, gravity-defying clocks and much more. A wealth of close-up photographs guide the reader through each project and a gallery section provides further inspiration, showing how a range of artists have decorated the author's work. David Springett's interest in woodturning began when he was a woodwork teacher - by reading each of the few books available, experimenting and persevering, he improved his skills. Since leaving teaching nearly 20 years ago, he has earned his living doing what he enjoys most. David and his wife Christine live in Rugby, Warwickshire.

Concrete is in. And no wonder: it's inexpensive, durable, and makes unique, stunning pieces with which to decorate your home. With just a bag of ready-mixed concrete, water and a few utensils and moulds you can find around the house, you can create beautiful, minimalist items in no time at all; from clocks, vases, lampshades and bowls through to jewellery, wine coolers and desk organisers. Each project is equipped with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and tips, and all can be made with very little know-how - making it a perfect craft for beginner concrete artisans, as well as the more experienced mason. A perfect mix of power, presence and practicality, bring concrete into your home today and discover a new-found love for this often overlooked but remarkable building material.

The foremost experts on cut glass of the 1876 to 1916 period, Bill and Louise Boggess, have brought together vital information for collectors to identify, select, and evaluate cut glass. All collectors will have to own this important new reference book. In Collecting American Brilliant Cut Glass, patterns are identified, signatures are shown, and major American companies are described. Thousands of cut glass pieces are shown in 1065 photographs. Even the unusual colored glass examples are illustrated. Each piece is graded for its rarity.

Whittling is more than just a way of busying idle hands - it is a pastime for those who love the texture of wood and a way of life for those who feel a special connection between people and trees. This beautiful and practical guide to the art of whittling offers the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life and a means of getting back to basics and creating unique items from scratch. Inside you will learn about the ancient art of whittling as one of the earliest forms of artistic expression; the different types of wood to use in your work; the simple tools you need to get started; and the various cutting techniques. The Art of Whittling also preaches the idea of Danish hygge - translating to coziness and being with friends and family in a warm atmosphere. Here, author Niklas Karlsson gives us an insight into why the Danes are considered the happiest people in the world - and how you can bring some hygge into your own lives. More than just a manual, this book offers a contemplative view on a skill that is more popular than ever.

Delightful Decorations and Gifts to Make with Your Scroll Saw Create holiday masterpieces for the home, family and friends with the tried-and-true scroll saw projects and patterns from the archives of Scroll Saw Woodworking & Crafts. This collection of holiday favorites features fretwork, compound-cuts, intarsia, and inlay projects for ornaments, wreaths, Santas, portraits, candleholders and more. Big Book of Christmas Ornaments and Decorations also features a stunning gallery of work. Readers will gain information and inspiration from some of scrolling's leading experts including Judy Gale Roberts, Kathy Wise, Sue Mey, Paul Meisel, John Nelson, Theresa Ekdom, Tom Sevy, Volker Arnold, and more. There is a project inside Big Book of Christmas Ornaments and Decorations for everyone, from beginners to advanced craftsmen. With step-by-step instructions and color photos, readers are guaranteed a very merry scrolling experience. Some of the projects inside: " Vintage Fretwork Sleigh Scene " Poinsettia Wreath " Inlay Snowman Ornaments " 12-Piece Intarsia Nativity Set " Christmas Card Tree

Comparatively easily mastered and needing few expensive tools or materials, stickmaking is an increasingly popular craft. This book examines tools and techniques; different types of sticks; materials both traditional and new; the microwave in hornwork; fancy sticks and miniature sticks; and jointing and finishing. Highly illustrated with colour photographs and line drawings "Stickmaking "is a fully comprehensive guide to this fascinating craft.

Starting in the Victorian years of the 19th century, hearty oyster consumption made special, beautifully crafted "oyster plates" a necessity in fashionable homes and restaurants. This book is perfect for collectors, complete with a rarity guide and color photographs of almost 500 pieces of original dishware and unusual serving utensils. The text is filled with the history of oysters plate manufacturers from Limoges and Meissen to Wedgewood.

The story of porcelain making and decorating in Limoges, France, is a tale of artists and potters; kings and an emperor; a revolution; and the emergence of a great industry. Limoges comes to life in over 1,100 photographs of porcelain and porcelain marks made over the past 100 plus years, concentrating on pieces dating from the 1860s to the present day. Along with a discussion of the manufacturing and decorating of both fine porcelain pieces and boxes, there is a full section dedicated to Limoges companies and their manufacturing and decorating marks. Captions include price guides. A fine index turns a lovely illustrated book into a valuable reference tool. All the photos of porcelain and boxes are in color.

Best known as one of the most widely used industrial ceramic techniques, slipcasting has become increasingly attractive to individual artists and craftspersons. Slip, a water and clay solution, is poured into porous molds. As the mold absorbs water from the slip, a layer of clay forms a cast. The excess slip is removed from the mold and the cast is stiffened, removed, dried, and fired in a kiln. Since the molds can be based on anything from delicate sculpture to found objects, slipcasting frees artists from the constraints of other ceramic techniques while allowing them to create multiples of their works. Sasha Wardell's Slipcasting is a straightforward, practical guide for those interested in the boundless possibilities of the technique. The book contains more than one hundred color illustrations, diagrams, and slip formulas. An inspiring "Individual Approaches" chapter discusses the slipcast work of a variety of contemporary ceramicists from around the world.

Sticks are essentially practical aides but are also works of art that often become integral to the owner. They have to be strong and reliable, but are beautiful too. This essential book covers all these qualities - it explains the traditional principles and methods of stickmaking, but also celebrates the designs and ideas behind these creations. Written by an award-winning stickmaker, it provides a full account of this age-old craft. Topics covered include materials, equipment and tools required to make a variety of sticks from timber, antler and horn; stick types and shapes; preparing timber to make handles and shanks; straightening shanks; making joints and exhibiting and competing. This new book will be an inspiration for all stickmakers, both new and old.