Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

Book SynopsisDo you enjoy running model trains but want to improve your layout? Do you want to gain expertise over a wider range of railway modelling skills and acquire the confidence to tackle modelling tasks that you have previously shied away from? If so, this is the book for you. Brimming with advice and tips, this well-illustrated book covers a wide range of modelling skills, including designing a layout, choosing the right scale, building baseboards, selecting the right track, controlling the trains, building the landscape, making realistic grass and weeds, and adding figures. Particular attention is paid to more modern techniques such as DCC train control, laser cut and downloadable kits, and the use of hard foam in baseboard construction. Step-by-step explanations of many techniques are provided accompanied by over 400 instructional colour photographs. Information is provided about the tools and materials required and the extensive range of commercial railway modelling products that are now available.

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Book SynopsisScrewcutting is a guide to the theory and practice of threads and thread-making, whether that is threading a hole using hand tools or cutting a thread using a lathe. The book covers details of the major threadforms, such as metric, Whitworth and Unified threads, as well as the British Association (BA) and Model Engineering (ME and MME) series, the smaller metric and Unified threads, pipe threads, and specialist threads such as ACME, trapezoidal and RMS microscope threads. Techniques for making threads manually, as well as screwcutting in the lathe are also covered. As well as covering the basics of screwcutting, this book examines higher-level and advanced techniques, using case studies to demonstrate what can be achieved - fine, accurate and well-finished work.

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Book SynopsisThe latest volume covers the hugely important American carrier of the Second World War. Built in larger numbers than any fleet carrier before or since, the Essex class can claim to be the US Navy's most significant weapon in the defeat of Japan. Carrying up to 100 aircraft and capable of absorbing enormous punishment (not one was sunk), they spearheaded the Fast Carrier Task Forces for most of the Pacific War.The heavily illustrated work contains everything a modeller needs to know about this prolific class.

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Book SynopsisThe 'ShipCraft' series provides in-depth information about building and modifying model kits of famous warship types. Lavishly illustrated, each book takes the modeller through a brief history of the subject class, then moves to an extensive photographic survey of either a high-quality model or a surviving example of the ship. Hints on building the model, and on modifying and improving the basic kit, are followed by a section on paint schemes and camouflage, featuring numerous colour profiles and highly-detailed line drawings. The strengths and weaknesses of available kits of the ships are reviewed, and the book concludes with a section on research references - books, monographs, large-scale plans and relevant websites.The Yamato class battleships of the Imperial Japanese Navy were the largest warships of the Second World War and the largest battleships ever constructed, displacing 78,800 tonnes. They also carried the largest naval artillery ever fitted to a warship - 18in guns. Neither Yamato nor her sistership Musashi made much impact on the War. Musashi was sunk during the battle of Leyte Gulf while Yamato, deployed in a deliberate suicide attack on Allied forces at the battle of Okinawa, was finally sunk by US carrier-based aircraft; Not 300 of her 3,330 crew survived.

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Book SynopsisThe 'ShipCraft' series provides in-depth information about building and modifying model kits of famous warship types. Lavishly illustrated, each book takes the modeller through a brief history of the subject class, highlighting differences between sister-ships and changes in their appearance over their careers. This includes paint schemes and camouflage, featuring colour profiles and highly-detailed line drawings and scale plans. The modelling section reviews the strengths and weaknesses of available kits, lists commercial accessory sets for super-detailing of the ships, and provides hints on modifying and improving the basic kit. This is followed by an extensive photographic gallery of selected high-quality models in a variety of scales, and the book concludes with a section on research references - books, monographs, large-scale plans and relevant websites.The five battleships of the class covered by this volume were the most modern British capital ships to serve in the Second World War. They were involved in many famous actions including the sinking of both Bismarck and Scharnhorst, while Prince of Wales suffered the unfortunate distinction of being the first capital ship sunk at sea by air attack.

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Book SynopsisJavier Gomez, a highly talented figure painter of long experience and excellent reputation, shares the secrets of his success in this accessible 'how-to' guide to painting miniatures. He takes the reader step-by-step through the whole process, from choice of materials (unlike other available guides it is not linked to any specific figure manufacturer) and preparation of the miniatures to basing and even advice on photographing the finished item. Techniques such as dry-brushing, ink-washing, shading and highlighting are all explained clearly with the help of step-by-step photographs and colour charts. Specific case studies tackle a variety of useful subjects across all periods, such as mixing realistic flesh tones for different races; painting horses; guns and limbers; Medieval heraldry; Napoleonic uniforms; WW2 and modern camouflage patterns. Javier also clearly explains how these techniques and processes can be applied to all the major wargaming scales, from 40mm down to 6mm. Whatever historical period (or Sci-fi/Fantasy) and whatever scale the reader is interested in, this book is an invaluable source of practical advice and inspiration.

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Book SynopsisLearn the art of Poker from the Best Poker champion and game theorist Dario De Toffoli wants you to become a more consistent player. Put the odds in your favour using De Toffoli’s common-sense approaches and advanced concepts, including easy-to-memorize poker mathematics. Learn to recognize and take advantage of different player types, master betting and bankroll strategies, and put your best foot forward at final table play. Beginners are welcome too – De Toffoli will ensure that they don’t get lost in the thicket of call, pot and all in. Best of all, the rules, winning strategies and culture of Texas Hold’Em (no limit and fixed) are given pride of place throughout the book. De Toffoli also covers the “soft” concepts of poker, such as table etiquette, the history of the game – and there’s even a section on poker in cinema. Written with precision, simplicity and humour by a leading professional player, The Big Book of Poker is the best way to fall in love with the game – and move from a being a regular loser to a confident winner. De Toffoli also covers the "soft" concepts of poker, such as table etiquette, the history of the game - and there's even a section on poker in cinema. Written with precision, simplicity and humour by a leading professional player, The Big Book of Poker is the best way to fall in love with the game - and move from a being a regular loser to a confident winner.Trade Review'To this day poker maintains a mystique that separates it from other games. De Toffoli suggests that it may be because poker is the game that best represents real-life competitions. In this 282-page tome, he tells us everything we need to know about the game and how to play it at all levels. Beginnning with the history of poker, he covers everything from dress codes to fitness to mathematical expectation to playing a tournament. The book contains simple diagrams and charts throughout to make the material visually understandable. This seems like a millenial trend waiting to happen.'- Retailing Insight

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Book SynopsisNathan Haselbauer, President of the International High IQ Society, has painstakingly researched and designed this impressively varied collection of over 500 mind-bending puzzles to enable you to determine just how clever you are. This huge variety of maths, logic and word puzzles ranges from reasonably straightforward to fiendishly difficult. Each puzzle is clearly presented, though, and its solution is perfectly clear. In theory, each puzzle can be solved - in your head - in just a few minutes.Fully endorsed by the International High IQ Society, the fastest growing high IQ society in the world, this book represents the gold standard of IQ testing.Praise for Nathan Haselbauer:'The young New Yorker who's challenging the Old Guard of the IQ World' Observer

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive guide to over 140 knots and splices, with easy-to-follow instructions, and 380 clear illustrations. Useful for sailing, fishing, camping, hobbyists, and those needing to know knots and splices. Contains an explanation of the basic terms used relating to knots and ropes, and cordage.

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Book SynopsisPaper — both affordable and universally available — is possibly the most versatile material in the crafter's kit box. In this new book from Quadrille's Simple Makes series, Christine Leech demonstrates 30 original and creative ideas for lovely papercraft projects. Some of the projects are simply drawn and cut, such as the fish mobile or rose gift tag, whilst others are constructed and glued, for example a cute yet practical stationery birdhouse that holds paperclips inside and has Post-It note tiles on its roof. A few slightly more advanced projects involve special techniques, such as the beginners' bookbinding method used to create the hand-bound Japanese-style notebooks or the wedding guest book, but everything is easily achievable by following the clear, step-by-step instructions and guides.

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Book SynopsisFanny Zedenius gives this addictive craft a refreshing twist as she takes you through all the essentials, from everything you need to know to get started through to inspiration on how best to display your makes.The 21 projects in Macramé include impressive wall hangings, a beautiful table runner, a stunning curtain, whimsical dream catchers and pretty plant hangers.Beginning with the basics, the knot glossary in Macramé covers 30 of the most popular knots plus provides tips on how to create the 7 different patterns through various knot combinations. The book then takes the readers through dip-dyeing, fraying, where to buy materials and how to tackle larger projects, plus 21 projects to make for yourself. Each knot and project includes charts and step illustrations alongside beautiful, inspirational photography that clearly shows each design.Once you have mastered the basic macramé knots, you can begin to create the designs of your dreams... the possibilities are endless.And if you wish to take your crafting further, get Macramé 2 - the perfect follow-up to Macramé!

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Book SynopsisMastermind is the ultimate test of knowledge, memory and nerve. Over four decades hundreds have tested their mettle in the famous black chair, and dared to put their intellect under the glare of the Mastermind spotlight. Now, can you rise to the challenge? The Mastermind Quiz Book poses over 3,500 questions, from fiendishly difficult general knowledge teasers to in-depth tests of specialist subjects. With topics ranging from Classical Mythology to Medical Science, by way of Famous Russians and The Works of Johnny Cash, only the finest minds will triumph. Whether you're playing in groups or simply testing your own brainpower, this collection of questions will challenge the very core of your mental strength - but when the clock runs down and the lights come up, will you emerge as the Mastermind?

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Book SynopsisBethan Ash's rich, colourful quilts are created using improvisational collage techniques. Working instinctively, she simply layers fabric shapes onto a prepared background and fuses them down, then adds stitching later. Each quilt is cut freehand, without the use of rulers or templates. In this groundbreaking book, she reveals the secrets of how she works, from basic dyeing and fusing techniques to design- and colour-awareness exercises and mixed-media experiments. In clear, easy-to-follow text, she gives the reader invaluable information on method, materials, technique and composition, and shows that improvisational quiltmaking is not merely 'messing about with fabric', but instead can form the basis of working freely and is the optimal way of broadening the reader's artistic talent. Illustrated with the best examples of fused quilts from around the world, this book is a visual feast of colour and pattern, and allows the reader to discover how the boundaries of traditional quiltmaking can be expanded through the use of imagination, inspiration and fusion.

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Book Synopsis Fancy yourself as a bridge player? This essential little book will show you how – in just 10 minutes. Introduces the basic rules and techniques for bidding, declarer play and defence. Useful bridge-table diagrams and quirky illustrations help the information stick. Bridge can sometimes look incredibly complicated and opaque. But that really isn't the case: it is a very easy game to learn. By the time you've read this invaluable little book, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to take your partner and play your first game. In clear, easy-to-follow text, backed up with useful diagrams and illustrations, the author shows you exactly how bridge works, including bidding, defence, declaring and trumps. The book then goes on to more advanced strategies, including how to use your opponent's bidding to your advantage, and discusses the finer points of etiquette and conduct during a bridge game. Armed with the information in this book, you can go on to become a star bridge player – in double-quick time!

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Book SynopsisCelebrated quilt artist Sandra Meech's last book, Connecting Art to Stitch, explored the ways in which fine-art concepts can be taken into stitch to make outstanding pieces of quilt art. In this exciting new title, the author turns her attention to the rules of design, and how they can be harnessed – and broken – to inform your quilt-art work. You will learn how to recognise good design, and the immutable rules all designers need to know. The author's signature practical workshops and exercises help you translate these rules into your own textile work, stimulating your creativity and encouraging you to explore new textures, materials, techniques and compositions. Detailed analyses of textile artists' work provide a breakdown of how design rules can be applied. Illustrated with a wealth of inspirational images from the world's best quilt and textile artists, this beautiful book is a must-buy for everyone who wants to create better textile art.

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Book SynopsisSo you're a fairly decent chess player. You compete in tournaments, you play on the Internet. But you would love to make that leap to become a chess master. What do you need to know, how much do you have to practise, and how much of the success of the masters is simply a matter of innate talent, superior brainpower or just good luck? This useful book, aimed at all chess players who aspire to become chess masters, shows you what the masters know and you don't. Written by one of our biggest-selling and best-loved chess authors, in his trademark chatty, accessible but always informative style, this book is filled with practical exercises and test games that will reveal the secrets of how to join chess's elite ranks.

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Book SynopsisWinning Chess is a truly classic chess book, beloved of chess-mad teenagers since it was first published in 1970, updated and repackaged in algebraic format. Written in lively, conversational style by two prolific and popular chess authors, it is aimed at players who have gone past the beginner stage and want to take their game to a whole new level. Its imaginative themes and instructional method are timeless, and the whole book is shot through with fun and humour.

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Book SynopsisFollowing on from her bestselling first book 'Contemporary Quilts', award-winning contemporary quilt artist Sandra Meech explains how to harness your own creativity to add innovation and depth to your quilt and embroidery work. In 'Creative Quilts', she shows you how to take inspiration from a wealth of sources, including art, textiles and architecture, and gives special emphasis to journals and sketchbooks. The book contains full instructions for a range of exciting techniques, including surface embellishment, mixed-media techniques, and taking quilt work into three dimensions, plus practical advice on exhibiting work. Special 'Creativity Plus' and 'Design Workshop' exercises help you to develop confidence in your own creativity. Illustrated with work from the world's leading quilt and textile artists, this book is both a practical workbook and a precious source of inspiration.

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Book SynopsisBias-cut Dressmaking is the best easy-to-follow guide to bias-cut clothes. It provides step-by-step instructions and diagrams for making over 40 items of clothing that are cut on the bias. The bias-cut technique is used by designers for cutting clothing to utilize the greater stretch in the bias or diagonal direction of the fabric. This allows the fabric to accentuate body lines and curves and drape softly. Bias-cut garments were an important feature of the designs of Madeleine Vionnet in the 1920s and 1930s but are now timeless. This classic text on the subject includes making skirts, dresses, trousers, eveningwear and even lingerie. You can make a halterneck evening dress, a cowl-necked shift dress, palazzo pants, bias-cut culottes, a cowl camisole, a strapless evening dress or a slightly flared bias skirt. The text is clearly written and laid out, making the beauty and the comfort of bias-cut clothing accessible to those not overly familiar with this type of dressmaking, including fashion students and amateur dressmakers.

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Book SynopsisAn inspirational and practical book on how to interpret and collaborate on different themes in textile art. With foreword by Marie-Therese Wisniowski, who runs Art Quill Studio. This stunning collection showcases the work produced by renowned textile artists Els van Baarle and Cherilyn Martin, and explores how – even when working from the same starting point – textile art can produce a myriad interpretations of shape, form, colour and technique. Els and Cherilyn have chosen six themes for their own starting point, each full of inspiration and artistic potential: Memory (both personal experiences and historical events); Graven (cemetery) images and idols; Books as objects; Pompeii and archaeological excavations; Walls; and Everyday items. For each of the themes the authors have provided a personal interpretation of the work and a description of the techniques they used, along with step-by-step instructions. In the chapter on memory, for example, Cherilyn demonstrates how old fabrics and textiles (which themselves have a unique history all of their own) can be recycled to incorporate your own stitched drawings. Alternatively, Els explores Procion Dye techniques to create colourful and striking fabrics that bear no resemblance to Els work on the same theme. The trend for collaborative textile art is increasing in popularity. This fascinating guide provides a rich seam of inspiration from two renowned artists, exploring how to get the most from your collaborations and produce beautiful and unique work.

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Book SynopsisAn illustrated, comprehensive guide to botanical painting written by the Society of Botanical Artists. In this new book the Society of Botanical Artists provides a comprehensive guide to the different styles and methods of botanical painting, harvesting the talent of both Members and Distance Learning Diploma Course students around the world, past and present. Botanical Painting features techniques and materials for all levels and demonstrates how these skills can be used to develop your own expertise. There are chapters on drawing with graphite and metal point, coloured pencil, body and watercolour in plant portraiture and illustration as well as 'The Mixed Bunch'. The inclusion of the historic methods used for egg tempera and metal point, as well as the technique required for working on vellum, makes this a valuable source of advice on subjects not readily available elsewhere. An inspirational gallery of paintings at the end of the book provides a guided walk around an SBA exhibition. The book is beautifully illustrated throughout, with comprehensive critiques on the artworks and step-by-step demonstrations. It will be an invaluable and inspirational addition to the library of the more experienced botanical painter. Trade Review'This is a complex subject and it and its practitioners deserve to be given the serious attention they receive here.' * The Artist *

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Book SynopsisTechniques and projects for using shibori dyeing in textile art. Shibori is one of the world's richest textile traditions. Commonly associated with Japan, it is in fact a technique long used in Africa, India and South America. In this practical guide, textile artist Janice Gunner shows how to combine traditional Japanese, African and Indian shibori methods with contemporary techniques to create stunning textiles that are bursting with rich, intricate patterns and bold colour. Various techniques are covered – from tied and stitched designs to ideas for wrapping, folding, clamping, pleating and binding. Simple and safe instructions for a range of dyeing techniques are also included. Practical information is accompanied by clear instructions and diagrams, aimed at quilters, embroiderers and textile artists of all abilities. Stunning quilts and embroideries throughout demonstrate the full potential of the technique, alongside practical advice on turning your shibori textiles into beautiful quilts, hangings and textile art. Trade Review'Simple but practical, this is a great introduction to the creative potential of shibori' * Embroidery *

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Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated practical guide to creating beautiful modern lettering with brushes and brush pens. Learn brush lettering with this creative guide from calligrapher extraordinaire Rebecca Cahill Roots, aka Betty Etiquette. In this quirky and relatable guide, she guides you through how to use brushes and brush pens to make exquisite letterforms. One of the most popular hand-lettering techniques, brush lettering is a beautiful, free-spirited style that, once mastered, is easy to develop into a unique personal style. The book is divided into chapters by type of media, covering ink, watercolour, gouache and brush pens. Each section contains a set of exercises for practising the technique including an alphabet and a set of numbers to copy. To finish off, there's a selection of pretty and practical projects to make using brush lettering, including beautifully decorated celebration cards, cushions and tableware.Trade Review'Watch out emails and text messages!''Both beautiful and useful – a William Morris dream' * Mollie Makes *

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Book SynopsisAs Picasso said: 'It took me a lifetime to Paint Like a Child'. Raw Drawing is not an art class — it is a unique philosophy and a practical resource that teaches you how to draw spontaneously and creatively without any inhibition. Learn how to use signs, lines and shapes to create a new visual language. It's a non-judgmental technique to help you visualize your thoughts, express your emotions, develop your ideas and, why not, relax with a pen or pencil. Since he launched the Raw Drawing initiative in 2017, Italian artist Alessandro Bonaccorsi has given dozens of courses across Italy, helping people expand their creativity. This book brings together all of Alessandro’s core teachings, making the power and creativity of raw drawing accessible to everyone. The book is recommended for those over 14 years of age, who are open to let themselves become children again and draw with a carefree mind. Use Raw Drawing to get closer to the heart of things, and learn to appreciate the beauty of the spontaneous.Trade Review‘Once you’ve finished reading and doing the exercises, you won’t be able to stop drawing’ * Maja Milkowska-Shibata Blog *

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Book SynopsisMindful Calligraphy is a unique and groundbreaking book that fuses the art of calligraphy and mindfulness. Calligraphy has long been known to centre and balance mind and body – concentrating on pen strokes is a good way to tune in positively and live in the moment. And lettering and calligraphy is having a major renaissance as we look for an antidote for our digital age. Progressing from simple movements and shapes to words and phrases, this creative, step-by-step guide helps you to learn how to focus your mind, beat stress, and tune out unwelcome thinking. Tracing the letters helps you stay on the path, always progressing, always centred. Your creation, at the end, is a mini work of art. Organized in progressive and easy-to-follow exercises, Mindful Calligraphy is the perfect guide on this journey towards tranquility and calligraphic beauty.Trade Review‘[A] calming antidote to modern society’s relentless rush' * Paper Crafter *

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Book SynopsisA book by stalwart chess writer on an aspect of chess that is quite common, but little is written about, swindling in chess. In chess, a swindle is a ruse by which a player in a losing position tricks his opponent, and thereby achieves a win or draw instead of the expected loss. Renown chess writers Horowitz and Reinfeld observe that swindles,"though ignored in virtually all chess books","play an enormously important role in over-the-board chess, and decide the fate of countless games". Andrew Soltis, American chess journalist, says swindles are not accidental or a matter of luck. Swindling is a skill. But there has been almost nothing written about how to do it, how to make yourself lucky in chess. Swindling means setting traps that exploit an opponent's over-confidence. It means choosing the move that has the greatest chance of winning, rather than the move that has the least chance of losing. Soltis' new proposal will explain to players of all levels how to do just that with plenty of examples to explain along the way.Trade Review'Full of interesting positions, [How to Swindle in Chess] can be read for pure enjoyment, and there are enough diagrams provided that it can mostly be read without a board.' * ChessCafe.com *

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Book SynopsisA wonderful portable edition of the Sunday Times and international bestseller Millie Marotta's Animal Kingdom. Millie Marotta is a hugely popular illustrator and her idiosyncratic drawings of the world's wonderful creatures will draw you in. The international bestseller offers a range of beautiful illustration to colour in, personalise and make your own. The artist's intricate style of illustration will get you itching for pencils and pen to colour in or add a touch of your own illustration, whether it's patterned birds, the flowing tendrils of a jellyfish, or the composite of flowers that make up a grizzly bear. You can colour her work or add your own line drawings to make it special to you. Add your own patterns to the lively forest scene, choose your own birds to add to the branches, or make a pattern with your colour choices. The images are guaranteed to get your creative juices flowing.Trade Review'A wealth of inspiration for colouring enthusiasts.' * Gift Focus *'Gorgeous, calming … zen-inducing' * PaperCrafter Magazine *

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Book SynopsisTips and techniques for spectacular and sustainable gift wrapping From simple bows and neat corners to Japanese fabric wrapping, this book shows how to wow friends and family with beautifully wrapped gifts while minimising waste. You will learn how to master the art of wrapping through easy step-by-step instructions of key techniques. There are ideas for creating both simple and intricate designs, all made using materials that are recyclable, reusable and sustainable. Techniques include wrapping with pleats and pockets, using paper bags and how to wrap unusual shaped gifts, such as bottles. A section on Furoshiki, fabric wrapping, shows how to create gift wraps from tea towels and beautiful pieces of fabric. There’s also guidance on ribbons, bows, string, wool and using plants and flowers to create the perfect gift. Bursting with ideas, this innovative book offers a mindful creative outlet that will both delight friends and family and help save the planet by reducing waste.Trade Review'Bursting with ideas, this innovative book offers a mindful creative outlet that’ll both delight friends and family and help save the planet by reducing waste.' * Craft Focus *'The remarkable Gift Wrap Green … makes achieving … stunning designs easier and more eco-friendly than ever before.' * PaperCrafter *'Try your hand at some of Camille’s ideas and prepare yourself for a showering of compliments from the lucky recipients.' -- Your Home'Filled to bursting with techniques for beautiful, recyclable gift wrapping' -- Sew

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Book SynopsisAn exciting new approach to flower painting with step-by-step demonstrations for creating contemporary flower portraits and landscapes that are truly unique. This is more than a ‘how-to’ on flower painting. It is a guide encouraging artists to explore new and exciting ways to create flower paintings bursting with individuality and moving towards a contemporary and impressionist style. Mixed-media artist Soraya French, well known for her gloriously vibrant flower paintings, shares the secrets of her work, with expert advice on all aspects of this endlessly rewarding subject. The book covers: Colours, shapes, patterns and textures particular to various flowers through the seasons, from fresh green foliage in the spring to rich red and gold hues in the autumn. How to incorporate flowers in both still life and landscape paintings, pictured in woodlands, seascapes, meadows and hedgerows as well as vases. How to assemble the perfect palette for flower painting and how to mix vibrant secondary colours, subtle tints and natural greens. The huge range of painting materials available today, from traditional watercolour to vividly coloured wax pastels to innovative textural mediums such as crackle paste and glass bead gel. The secrets of good composition and how to lead the eye around a painting, giving a sense of rhythm and movement while maintaining unity and harmony. Packed with exciting new ideas and illustrated with stunning examples of Soraya’s own work, this book will take your flower painting to a new level and help you find your unique visual voice.Trade Review‘A thoroughly thought through guide to flower painting … a book that will lift your spirits’ -- Art Book Review‘There is so much to like about this impressive volume … This is a book that’s a riot of colour, instruction and inspiration’ -- Henry Malt * The Artist *Table of ContentsWelcome Exploring the media Dynamic design strategies The language of colour Seductive surfaces Explore further Acknowledgements Index

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Book SynopsisA wonderful portable edition of Millie Marotta's Curious Creatures from the the Sunday Times and international bestseller Millie Marotta. Lose yourself in the fascinating world of Millie's Curious Creatures. Millie has researched beasts of all shapes and sizes from all over the world, and illustrated those with amazing survival skills, intriguing behaviours and – of course – beautiful plumage and patterns. Millie’s intricate style of illustration encourages you to make your own mark, whether it's adding colour to a mandarinfish or adding feathers to a kiwi. There's the mimic octopus and the giant squid, the sleepy sloth and the long-eared jerboa, even the otherwordly narwhal – all waiting to be brought alive with glorious colour. Now in a handy pocket size, this book is perfect for anyone looking for a creative outlet or a mindful and relaxing activity on the go.Trade Review'A wealth of inspiration for colouring enthusiasts.' * Gift Focus *'Gorgeous, calming … zen-inducing' * PaperCrafter Magazine *

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Book SynopsisRenowned botanical artist and professional gardener, Carolyn Jenkins combines her love of art and gardening to create stunning compositions (often very different from traditional botanical painting) with vibrant colours that leap from the page. The first part of this book – Botanical: Grow – explores time well-spent in the garden and covers much of the traditional details of botanical painting, from observation to capturing light, colour and texture. The second part – Contemporary: Paint – explores how Carolyn works with photography, using the computer to help with crop and composition, achieving maximum impact and creating luminous paintings that shine from the page. Her stunning illustrations are full of vibrant colour, and her larger-than-life artworks have gained an enthusiastic following on Instagram. This practical guide contains all the techniques and practice you need to create beautiful botanical art, plus step-by-step photography, crop, composition and photoshop demonstrations, to bring luminous colours, textures and impact to your own work.Trade Review‘Contains everything budding artists need to create eye-catching springtime paintings’ * Wildflower *‘Both fascinating and thought-provoking’ -- Henry Malt * The Artist *‘Chock-full of resplendent botanical paintings’ * PaperCrafter *‘An inviting book’ -- Henry Malt * Art Book Review *

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Book SynopsisA great book for expressing your creative fashion urges, with doodling, drawing and colouring exercises to fill in. Fashion illustrator and lecturer Frances Moffatt provides suggestions and half-filled pages of drawings and doodles for you to continue. Including sections on designing your own fashion blog, creating your own festival fashions, styling street style models from across the globe, adding bling to celebrity pets and creating your own fashion patterns and prints. This book is packed full of fun exercises to get creative and bring out the fashionista in you. Unleash your creative potential by adding colour, patterns and glitter to these line drawings to make them unique to your style. Whether it's a simple colouring-in piece, or a more considered drawing, the suggestions offer something for everyone and encourage you to make the book about your own style.Trade Review'A great way to stay creative and keep entertained at home’ -- The Pattern Pages

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Book SynopsisAcclaimed Royal Academy artist Jeanette Barnes and Paul Brandford breathe new life into sketching for town and city dwellers everywhere. Mercurial, inspirational, practical and charming, this guide covers everything from architecture to accidental paintings, cocktails to clouds, smudges to skyscrapers. With easily digested bite-size entries, it introduces many types of art materials, their uses and a number of insights and exercises to build confidence in a range of approaches to drawing. For the more experienced sketcher, the artists discuss the processes behind drawing and strategies to inject more creativity and open-mindedness about how to take a drawing forward. With great charm, the book gives a window onto the experiences of Jeanette, who has travelled to many cities worldwide in search of inspiring city subjects and a half-decent cocktail. Full of tips and ideas about working on location and back in the studio, this book is filled with the scribbles, sketches and preparatory drawings that feed into the larger works for which she is known. As a whole, the book is a multipurpose tool which can be used to unlock the potential of drawing both technically and philosophically so that the reader can be the architect of their own drawing experience rather than the recipient of someone else’s. After thirty years of drawing, many of them teaching, the authors still feel an excitement when picking up a pencil or some charcoal. This book gives every reader the chance to share that excitement and bring urban living to life.Trade Review‘Mercurial, inspirational, practical and charming’ The Big Draw 2022 ‘City Sketching Reimagined … is not just about drawing cities in a new way; the book itself is a massive break from other how-to urban sketching books … ideal for anyone who wants to break out of their urban sketching routine and create something remarkable’ Art Tool Kit 2022 ‘A fresh and encouraging introduction to drawing’ Leisure Painter 2022 ‘The most substantial book I have seen on urban sketching’ The Artist Henry Malt 2022

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Book SynopsisFresh ideas and techniques for the rapidly evolving area of three-dimensional textiles. Leading textile artist Ann Goddard takes three-dimensional textiles to a new level in this practical book. Drawing inspiration from natural landscapes, organic material and a concern for the environment, Ann's work combines textile and non/textile elements with construction. Linen, loose fibres, paper and yarn are complemented by seemingly unlikely materials including concrete, wood, lead and bark. Fragile is juxtaposed with hard, natural with man-made, beauty with imperfection. The techniques range from stitching, wrapping, couching, and knotting to sawing, drilling, and casting. In this book, previously separate art media are combined to create eclectic works; boundaries are crossed, expectations challenged and categorisation rejected. Mixed Media Textile Art in Three Dimensions takes a linear look at the creative process from themes, research and experimentation through to preparing elements, conveying meaning and constructing three-dimensional forms, encouraging you to broaden your horizons in textile work. Brimming with beautiful artwork from the author and featuring the work of some inspiring and exciting artists creating three-dimensional constructions.Trade Review‘Ann Goddard takes three-dimensional textiles to a new level… there’s a wealth of interesting new ideas to try’ Stitch ‘A useful resource if you are looking for ideas on using or incorporating non-fabric elements in your work … an absorbing and inspiring read’ The Quilter ‘Practical yet stimulating… Embroiderers will find much to inspire them’ The Journal for Weavers, Spinners & Dyers ‘Goddard’s approach is fresh and the book challenges the maker to the open to new ideas and inventio in their textile art’ Embroidery Cas HolmesTable of Contents Introduction Exploring themes Conducting research Experimenting with materials Conveying meaning Preparing the elements Constructing a three-dimensional form Conclusion

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Book SynopsisBatsford’s Chess Bible is a landmark, full-colour chess instruction book, ideal for both beginners and more experienced players wanting to improve their game. The book takes the form of a course, with quick-start guides to help to retain the information you’ve learned and puzzle sections for you to test yourself as you go. To illustrate more advanced strategy and tactics, author Sean Marsh uses world-class chess ‘heroes’, such as Anatoly Karpov and Mikhail Tal, to bring the concepts to life. Essential topics include: Pieces and Moves: the very basics, covering the chessboard, notation, the names of the pieces and how they move, plus an overview of chess etiquette. What Chess is All About: an exploration of chess culture and history. Winning, Drawing and Losing: Covers the various ways of winning at chess, and how games are drawn. Six Openings for Life: Coverage of six of the best chess openings, each illustrated by a different 'chess hero'. Tactical Weapons: An examination of forks, pins, skewers and other tactical devices, followed by illustrative games from Tactical Hero Mikhail Tal. Positional Play: Looks at good and bad positions, plus the art of planning, seen through the games of Positional Hero Tigran Petrosian. Human Factors: Typical mistakes and blunders to avoid. Easy to follow, yet thorough and challenging, this book is an essential companion for all budding chess champions.

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Book SynopsisAn insightful new book that is perfect for newcomers to chess inspired by Netflix's Queen's Gambit. Written by one of the best chess communicators in the business, chess master and chess journalist Andy Soltis divulges practical advice and explains technical terms that chess books often overlook. From learning how to train your mind with chess information to choosing the best chess opening, dip in and out of this invaluable guide to improve your chess in a minutes. Chess questions answered in this book include: Is there a best way to study chess? How do I know if I have a natural talent? How important is chess memory and how can I train mine? How long should I think before choosing a move? Is there a proper way to think? Can I think like a chess computer? How do I develop chess intuition? Don't try to swallow too much information in one sitting. Dip in and out of these great chess questions to better understand the game and let the improvement happen incrementally.

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Book SynopsisAn instructional book about the crucial questions that masters ask themselves before committing to a move – a checklist for all players to ask themselves before making their own moves. Beginners learn to ask themselves the key questions. As they improve, they ask more sophisticated questions: 'What did my opponent's last move allow me to do?", 'Where is his position weakest?", 'Should I take an irrevocable step now or wait?', 'What does my opponent want me to do?'. For chess master players these are almost subconscious checklist. Andy Soltis runs through the checklist of things to ask before making a move with fascinating and illuminating examples of real chess games, from Karpov to Judith Polgar, from Magnus Carlsen to Fabiano Caruana. A key to improving is to ask all of these questions and find the right answers, for players looking to improve. The advice of Chess Masters is good advice for all chess players and the best way to take your play to the next level.Trade Review‘A very good instructional manual on how to make better decisions by narrowing down the essence of what is going on in any given position’ Carsten Hansen, American Chess Magazine (US) ‘An immersive and instructive read’ The Caissa Kid Blog

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Book SynopsisFollowing on from the enduring success of one of the most important chess books ever written, Bobby Fischer: My 60 Memorable Games, and the recently released Magnus Carlsen: 50 Memorable Games, celebrated chess writer Andrew Soltis delivers a book on Fabiano Caruana, the Grandmaster set to rival current world champion Magnus Carlsen. This book details Caruana's remarkable rise from chess prodigy to one of the best chess player in the world, exploring how he acquired the skills of 21st-century grandmaster chess over such a short period of time. This book dives into how he wins by analysing 60 of the games that made him who he is, describing the intricacies behind his and his opponent's strategies, the tactical justification of moves and the psychological battle in each one.Trade Review‘This will doubtless be identified as the definitive account of how a remarkable pre-teenager decided to became a professional chess player at the tender age of 12 and then went on to achieve one of the greatest winning streaks in chess history.’ ‘Soltis has reached new heights with these two new books … the notes provided are pithy, enlightening and accurate’ Raymond Keene, The Article ‘”Fabianistas” will delight in this splendid collection … a treasure’ Don McKim, chess.com ‘There is a lot to ponder and much to relish in this excellent book. Soltis has long been a fine guide to the opaque paradoxes and anomalous beauty of modern chess, and in this stellar games collection he is on song again.’ The Caissa Kid Blog ‘An excellent book from a highly respected author recommended for competitive players of all standards, for connoisseurs of fine chess, and for all interested in chess culture.’ British Chess News

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Book SynopsisAn informative and accessible new book by Thomas Engqvist, the practical follow up to his previous two authoritative chess books: 300 Most Important Chess Positions and 300 Most Important Tactical Chess Positions. Filled with 300 engaging chess exercises and complete solutions in the end of the book, this book will allow you to apply and consolidate your newfound knowledge. The book is divided into four key sections: ·75 exercises practising positional ideas in the opening/middlegame ·75 exercises covering the endgame ·75 tactical exercises in the opening/middlegame ·75 tactical endgames. The exercises featured in the book are taken from real game positions from various renowned chess players, including Capablanca and Magnus Carlsen.Trade Review‘Those hidden tactical tricks, that technique for winning a pawn ending, this curious knight manoeuvre; the storehouse of stratagems contained herein; can be turned to good use in your own games. You acquire an arsenal of weapons and become a more formidable player. All told, an excellent book.’ The Caissa Kid Blog ‘Filled with engaging game exercises, which form an impressive diverse collection plus solutions appropriately placed.’ British Chess Magazine James Pratt ‘A book by an outstanding teacher … very highly recommended for club standard players ambitious to improve their rating’ British Chess News Richard James

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Book SynopsisNew ideas for working with nature to nurture creativity in felted and embroidered textile art. Immerse yourself in nature and rewild your creative practice with inspiration from textile artist Jeanette Appleton. With a focus on the versatile medium of felt, she takes readers through a series of ideas for working with nature to boost creativity, inspire, and make us more sustainable as artists. The book covers: • How to capture the nuances of nature through creating exciting felt surfaces – lines of sea, frosted puddles, hedge and grass – and how to translate them into subtleties of texture and stitch. • Transform recycled cloth by bonding memories, mixed-media and found objects into your work. • Cutting and repairing techniques: making cuts and slits in the layers of fabric to reveal the secret strata of nature beneath, echoing the planet’s fragility. • How to make the best use of sketchbooks, maps and mapping to record inspiration from time spent in nature. • A variety of strategies for overcoming artist’s block, from revisiting past diaries and sketchbooks to interacting differently with your local environment. Throughout, the author constantly challenges the felt process, discovering a new creative working practice through connecting with the outside world. Richly illustrated with exciting examples of the author’s beautiful and reflective work, this inspirational and practical guide will appeal to textile and felt artists of all levels.

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Book SynopsisA wonderful portable edition of Millie Marotta’s Woodland Wild, from the Sunday Times and international bestseller artist. Lose yourself in the calming world of woodland wildlife, from peaceful pine groves to a steamy tropical forest, with over 80 amazing illustrations to colour in a smaller format. Discover intriguing creatures, from foxes, fireflies and fallow deer to lemurs, leaf frogs and ladybugs. Millie's much-loved intricate drawing style will be irresistible for those who love to colour. Meander through a world of towering trees, leafy canopies, exquisite blossoms and underground burrows to meet a huge array of animals that make the woods their home. Featuring species from across the globe, this is a celebration of the world's forests and woods, guaranteeing hours of relaxation and colouring fun, especially while on the go, and perfect to pop in a travel bag.

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Book SynopsisLessons, motivation and coaching to make you a better chess player. In an ideal world, any aspiring chess player, at almost any level, would get better with a coach. If that's not possible, having chess champion coach Thomas Engqvist's book at your side is the next best thing. In his series of lessons, Engqvist guides you through not only the most important elements of chess to master but also the psychology, how to marry knowledge with imagination, and how to stay motivated. Suitable for older children through to adults, the lessons are drawn from chess games through history, from the 16th century to Magnus Carlsen and latest Alpha Zero computer chess. It features a range of key players, including Steinitz, Lasker, Nimzowistch, Botvinnik (Soviet chess school), and Fischer. With clear and accessible annotations to give clarity, the games highlight the most important lessons to learn and, just as importantly, how to 'practise' chess. International Master Thomas Engqvist has travelled the world teaching and coaching chess to a very high level for decades – and with this book, he can be your coach too.Trade Review'Engqvist’s Chess Lessons is an excellent book and I recommend it for its historical, pedagogical and literary values. It is, in fact, a concise account of the intellectual development of chess over the past five centuries.’ Raymond Keene, The Article

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Book SynopsisLearn the art of Himmeli in this captivating book in which traditional Finnish craft and modern design intertwine to create stunning geometric mobiles from rye straw.

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Book SynopsisThirty original paintings by members of the East London Group, paired with 20 new interpretations and responses from contemporary painters.The East London Group created paintings in the 1920s and ?30s of buildings, streets, and London life. The artists were mostly working class, realist painters whose formal education had often stopped at an early age. The group were taught by Walter Sickert, John Albert Cooper, and Phyllis Bray and exhibited alongside prominent artists of the day.Curated by the Urban Contemporaries Group, this book and accompanying exhibition features original paintings by members of the East London Group alongside contemporary paintings inspired by them, from leading artists working in the urban landscape tradition, including David Hepher, Doreen Fletcher, Tim Craven, Timothy Hyman, Philippa Beale, Nicole Poh, and Marc Gooderham.The result is a showcase of surprising pairings of paintings from a group of artists that are steadily growing in popularity and reputation with fresh interpretations from a new generation of painters.

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Book SynopsisUse this unique book to identify your own individual chess-playing style, then discover a wealth of tips and tricks to avoid pitfalls, improve strengths and become the best player you can be.

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Book SynopsisPacked with facts and razor-sharp observations, Sorry, I’m British! is hilarious and informative in equal measure. From small-talk to superiority, from the famous stiff upper lip to the infamous football hooliganism, this book will take you through the sometimes sarcastic, often poetic, generally polite, never boastful, but universally proud realm of all that’s British. Discover the fate of a pitbull named ASBO, find out exactly why we get bank holidays when we do, and learn why it’s better to drive on the left with this mini encylopedia of British behaviour. Peppered with illustrations from the legendary British cartoonist Ed McLachlan (Punch, Private Eye, The Spectator), this is the perfect book for a nation that loves to laugh at itself.Trade Review"Full of strange facts, clever insights and amusing observations and adds up to a surprisingly comprehensive summary of what it means to be British… throughout there's a delightful, quiet wit that yearns to be quoted." * Daily Mail *"If you only buy one book tomorrow, make it this... charming." * Independent on Sunday *"This book is as informative as it is hilarious, full of facts and sharp observations." * Leicestershire and Rutland Life *"A chuckle a minute." * Britain magazine *"If you only buy one book tomorrow, make it this... charming." * The Independent *

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