Papermaking & Bookbinding

Impressive - this book is very clear in what it covers from its title alone. The discussion on making basic hand-made paper in a variety of methods and producing variations in the surface texture/color/materials used is excellent. Wonderful step-by-step photos (not shown in the "Search Inside this Book" link) compliment the directions and show the end product. TIPS provided throughout the book provide sound information that is VERY useful when proceeding with your own work. When it comes to the second section of the book - Bookbinding Techniques and Projects - again very well done. The tools needed are clear and well represented to get you started and for those that may be a bit more advanced. Each project provides a list of tools needed so you can be well prepared as you tackle one or more of the projects. The guidelines in this section are again well-written complemented by photos of the process...and the photos are extremely useful when it comes to the more complex processes when making books - especially the various binding methods. The papers produced do not go to the more elaborate as seen in other books on papermaking, but when you are making a book/journal/travel log/photo album wild papers are not necessary unless you want a striking cover IMHO. A few pictures of paper art by various artists finish the book in a nice way and help increase the creative process for my own papermaking designs that I use for my own art/business. If you want a more advanced and very detailed book on how to bind books - go elsewhere but for what I have mentioned above and what is described in the Table of Contents, the author has covered the subject extremely well for all to be able to learn and make well-crafted books/journals/etc using their own hand-made paper.

The two things I like most about this book is its thoroughness in the techniques it shows and its easy to understand and follow instructions. Not only does it give step-by-step written instructions, but it also shows you pictures at each step, unlike some craft books that only give you a picture of the final project. The book also contains a variety of projects, and they are decorated in different styles. Most other craft book only offer one style, such as very -artsy- (i.e. colorful) or very -country-. There is nothing wrong with these styles, but it is nice to have a variety of inspiring choices, such as this book provides. I reccommend it to both the beginner and more experienced crafter.

Altho' I am somewhat of a beginning artist, I want to use my form to make books and embellished items. After comparing this book to others, I found this WELL worth the investment -- even at full price. I can hardly wait to get started! It covers very basic techniques to more advanced, "artsier" stuff, and makes it simple enuf to follow along and figure it out. Complete with great photos and simple instructions...if you're interested in making books or paper, this is a great resource...

I have 5 books on making photo albums and books. I love this book. The book describes how to make paper and then get's into how to make books. It is by far a useful resource to own. A+++ in my book.