Fairies, Gnomes & Trolls: Create a Fantasy World in Polymer Clay

I found this book while browsing the shelves in a bookstore and my only regret is that I didn't know that the author is offering an autographed copy on her website! I'll probably order one at some point because this book was exactly what I needed to move on to the next stage in my art and I'm forever in her debt. I started sculpting with polymer clay about five years ago and up to now was entirely self-taught when it came to sculpting figures. Just a month or so before finding the book, I attempted faces but knew I had a long way to go. Maureen's book is just what I needed and more. Her instruction on proportion is excellent and she shares many valuable tips on working with this medium, which can be very sneaky and tricky. From the point of an intermediate level and experienced artist, the instruction is extremely easy to understand and put into practice. Exact measurements are given whenever possible, making each project practically foolproof. I believe that the book is also very valuable to the absolute beginner but would recommend that they take their time and spend a great deal of time becoming familiar with the quirks of polymer clay before expecting to complete the projects quickly and easily. If I had only one tip to offer, it would be that when your clay "turns gumby," as I call it when it becomes stretchy and too soft, put it down and let it rest because you are not going to get anywhere with it until it does. Every project is adorable and easy to accomplish. In addition to a good variety of characters, projects for props such as tree spirits and fairy portals are also provided so that you can create an entire fantasy village! So far, I've made three of the characters and am very pleased with the results, even on the first try. My first figures turned out a bit larger but it was very easy to scale them down on the next attempt. You'll learn how to create and use armatures and molds and sculpt faces, body parts and even clothing! I love the way that each chapter is written from the point of view of one of the characters, The Storyteller, (who bears a strong resemblance to the author!) and that we're guided through each project with tips from another character, Woodpecker Pete. I own several books on polymer clay technique and this is one of the few that I intend to keep forever. It hasn't made it to the bookshelves since I brought it home and it's unlikely that it ever will. The stock that the book is printed on is also very sturdy and will hold up to many hours of flipping through and holding it open for a reference. Investing in this book increased my skill level tremendously in a very short period of time. I have already applied so much of what Maureen teaches to my own work in sculpting goddesses and dancers. I also love the way that the author nurtures creativity by encouraging us to tell stories with our art, as she does. This book is so much more than a technique manual. It's a treasure that belongs in every clay artist'

I bought this book because I work with clay with the children in my daycare alot. We make up stories and I scuplt to their direction. This book helped me learn a great deal of techniques and give the children ideas for stories! Thanks Maureen!

I have to say I love all of Maureen Carlson's books but this is by far her best yet.It is well illustrated.The projects are easy to follow with GREAT pictures to help you along in the proccess.Every project also gives you a list of supplies needed.I just love her work and am thankful that she shares her techniques and ideas.

This is the third book I've bought by Maureen, and like the others it is informative and fun. There are plenty of projects from beginners to advanced.. although I wish there had been a little more of the complicated stuff. Couples nicely with "How to Make Clay Characters" if you're an absolute beginner. This book is beautifully designed also, so even if you don't end up making something from it, it's a pleasure to thumb through the pages.

ABSOULETLY a wonderful book, Artist, Author, Publisher & Photographer did a great job in the easy step by step instructions for all level-skills for these projects in use of Polymer Clay. A MUST for your library, but rest assure it will not sit on your shelf, but used over an over again.