July 08
They say that it is never too early to start getting ready for Christmas, and even if it is it will arrive sooner than you think! Better be ready and lay in a book like this, filled with cards and ways of decorating the tree and table. This is not a new book, but a compendium of three earlier ones so if you already possess these you won't need this. But if you don't...
I really like this book a whole lot. Anybody who can make a votive candle shade out of an old radiator cover salvaged from a skip gets my vote for being a green crafter, and there are also ways of using cheap glasses bought in a charity shop as well as all sorts of bit and pieces we crafters tend to hoard. The cardmaking section has ideas for most of the materials that have been around for some time, such as glass and silk paints, peeloffs, small boxes, metal foil and beads. The ideas are easily adaptable for other media and there are no gallery pieces, for all the templates are included. Similar things can be said about the two decorations sections where paper and card in its various forms gets put through its paces, and all sorts of unlikely items are pressed into service to make some stunning decorations such as fancy paper bags and galvanised buckets, small offcuts of anything gold and lots of wire. There are lots of ways of displaying candles, and of hanging small gifts on the tree to make them look more interesting and festive. If you are beginner, nothing is too hard to make (some ideas are suitable for children) and if you are not, there is still plenty of inspiring food for thought and new ways of using familiar items. This goes no further than my keeper shelf. Highly recommended.
* Myshelf.com *
Sept 09
Papercrafts for Christmas is broken down into three sections - Making Christmas Cards, Making Christmas Tree Decorations and Making Christmas Table Decorations. Each section starts with a run down of the basic materials required and ends with the templates that are used in that section. The projects are varied, including gift bags and boxes, Christmas crackers and napkin rings. The projects are broken down into step by step details, with each step illustrated. The images are clear and show each stage of the project and any special techniques. At the end of each project there are pictures of variations which is a great source of inspiration. In addition to the templates at the end of each section, templates are also included within the project pages where appropriate. This is an excellent papercraft book and the range of techniques means that there are plenty of exciting opportunities to create interesting results. The authors explain the techniques and projects in detail and have an engaging writing style. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for ideas for papercraft projects and ideas for the holiday season.
* About.com *
Dec 08
On a cold wintry evening what could be better than curling up with your paper stash and crafting up a Christmassy storm? Judy Balchin and Polly Pinder join forces to bring you dozens of brilliant ideas for unique cards and individual decorations for your table and tree. This fun book will help you deck your home with everything from smart embossed foil stars to cosy stitched stockings, all explained with easy to follow instructions, handy templates and clear photos. Add it to your wish lists for Santa today!
* Papercraft Inspirations *
