Crazy Mosaic (CL)

There is a really nice range of projects in this book, from simple in design and technique to complex and unique. A couple of the candleholders look like something I could buy in Bi-Mart for a few dollars, however, they'd be great practice items for the beginner. Few of the items use the typical square-shaped tiles, rather there are a lot of broken tiles and ceramics used, along with glass marbles, metallic beads, rocks, and ceramic pieces such as roses and birds, which give the projects a more unstructured look.The introductory pages in the beginning of the book are very nicely laid out and informative. They clearly show what kinds of materials and tools are used, and how to work with them. The pages on mixing and coloring grout I think are especially helpful. Project instructions are also clear and easy to read and include finishing instructions as needed (such as for hanging). There are several galleries of projects (without instructions) that can serve as a resource for ideas after mastering the basic skills.The objects covered include the usual picture frames, vases, and tabletops, but they are all unique enough from other mosaic books to make this book worth keeping in your library for an idea resource. New ideas for me include covering two different ceiling light covers and concrete garden decorations. The concrete turtle covered with tiles and glass gems is a cute example. There's a gorgeous vase with a floral and geometric design, using a stained glass which shimmers with many colors, and a broken-tile covered chair that would certainly be the center of attention. This book has enough variety and quantity of projects in addition to what I've mentioned, that it should be a welcome addition to a mosaicist's library.

This book has inspired and helped me like no other - and I have (nearly) every book on the subject! The gallery is exceptional (I'm jealous)! The instructions are clearly written and the projects are great for the beginner as well as the experienced mosaicist. I would very highly recommend this book for just about anyone who is interested in "broken china" mosaics! Thank you Tracy - I wish I lived in Dallas!!

This book is aimed for the general reader interested in the history of mosaics, but, more specially, for the artist, home crafter or educator who actually wants TO MAKE MOSAICS THEMSELVES. The illustrations are beautiful in their own right, the 'how to do it' drawings on how to cut tile, select subjects, dedcorate flat and curved surfaces (such as teapots !) are inviting, provokative and irresistable. A must read for all those interested in this oldest, most permanent and basically simple, decorative art.

Tracy Graivier has smashed the conventions of mosaic and given us a new, exciting vision. Her explanations are direct and easy to follow. For anyone venturing into Mosaic, this book is a must read.

I am so excited that I found this book. As an avid hobbyist, I have now found an art form that is fun and easy to do, alone or with my kids. The author has revived an ancient art form in a modern way. The pictures of artwork are gorgoeus and more importantly, the instructions and accompanying illustrations were clear and easy to follow. My house is now rapidly filling up with my own mosaic creations. This book is a definite on my holiday gift list this year.