Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

Book SynopsisThe beauty of applique celebrated in original and practical projects, using a range of techniques from cut-work and shadow-work to broderie perse and reverse applique.

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Book Synopsis'A warm and inspiring invitation to put down our phones, pick up a pencil and start really looking at the beauty all around us.' - Kathy Clugston, presenter of Gardeners' Question TimeLearn to let go of your worries and lose yourself in nature with this practical guide to sketching for pleasure, not perfection. Most of us know that creativity and time outdoors are good for our wellbeing, yet so many of us struggle to find the time or motivation to step away from our screens. But there’s a solution! Combining quick and easy exercises with the latest research on nature connection, wellbeing and creativity, The Green Sketching Handbook will inspire you to pick up a pencil and get started.Inspired by her own journey from climate scientist who hadn't tried drawing since childhood to artist and nature lover, Dr Ali Foxon will show you how to embrace your wobbly lines, unhook from a fear of criticism and create a habit that makes you feel good, not inadequate. You will learn more about yourself and your unique relationship with nature, finding out what brings you comfort and joy. Best of all, you'll create vivid and evocative memories of all your outdoor adventures, big and small, even if you’re convinced you can’t draw.Trade ReviewThe health of our planet and the people that depend upon it are being run down because of our collective blindness toward nature. Re-engaging and connecting people with the natural world is a vital prerequisite for a secure future, and this lovely little book provides one wonderful gateway to that. -- Tony Juniper CBE, environmentalist and chair of Natural EnglandA warm and inspiring invitation to put down our phones, pick up a pencil and start really looking at the beauty all around us. -- Kathy Clugston, presenter of Gardeners' Question TimeA joyful, beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking book. Use it to sketch more, reconnect with nature and spread the word. -- Anne Swithinbank, expert horticulturalist and panelist for Gardeners' Question TimeAli Foxon’s The Green Sketching Handbook helps you make that great leap from the sofa and screen to the outdoors... benefiting your brain and your wellbeing. Powered completely by fresh air, pencils and paper, The Green Sketching Handbook bypasses your keyboard completely. No screens needed. -- Asher Minns, Tyndall Centre for Climate ChangeIn a time of uncertainty, fear and gloom this is a book that shines bright like a diamond. Everyone can benefit from reconnecting with nature and this is such an honest, engaging and accessible guide. I think it will change many people's lives for the better and bring pleasure, hope and mental peace. So bring on the green sketching revolution. -- Andy Brown, Head of Sustainability, Anglian Water Group

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Book SynopsisBest-selling author Kim Schaefer introduces 12 new quilt projects in her beloved whimsical, contemporary, folk-art style. Just layer your felted wool pieces, from flamingos, owls, bees, potted flowers, and much more, and add to your cotton fabric background. Suitable for beginners! Every stitcher from novice to experienced can enjoy these projects.Trade ReviewA selection of mostly smaller wall quilts up to 20 1/2", with one larger at 40 1/2", made with a mixture of cottons and wool fabrics. Bonded applique is used throughout with embellishments and embroidery to finish. There are many detailed images showing the quilting and all were longarm quilted. Each min quilt has an applique diagram to help with positioning. There is one pull-out sheet displaying two of the designs. There are some simple general instructions for making and using the bonded applique method. The wall hangings are bright and cheerful in a variety of designs. Flowers, owls, houses, birds and even a flamingo feature on these folksy projects. -- British Patchwork & Quilting * British Patchwork & Quilting *

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Book SynopsisThis book offers creative ways to transform plain glass bowls, vases, mirrors, picture frames, plant pots and other home accessories. You can use the timeless craft skills of painting glass, stained-glass construction and glass mosaic to produce traditional and contemporary objects to decorate your home. You can paint small decorative motifs to champagne glasses, paint bold, abstract designs on an unusual window hanging, or 'etch' a design into a glass vase. You can make a trinket box or a decorative planter using easy-to-follow techniques of cutting glass and soldering, reproduce the effect of stained-glass windows with self-adhesive lead, or learn the art of mosaic using glass tesserae to decorate plant pots, lantems and a tabletop. Working creatively with glass is a skill that anyone can learn and the range of specialist craft materials and equipment available is increasing, helping to make light work of traditional crafts. This practical, highly illustrated book presents over 40 beautiful projects to create.Using the distinct techniques of painting glass, cutting and glass construction, stained-glass effects and glass mosaics, each chapter opens with material and equipment lists as well as pages of techniques that explain all you need to know to achieve success. From a Venetian perfume bottle and leaded picture frames to stylish glass window decorations these projects are sure to inspire.

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Book SynopsisIf you have always wanted to draw manga but weren’t sure how to begin, this fun and simple step-by-step book will help kick-start your comic-drawing journey. Learn how to draw boys, girls and creatures (ordinary and extraordinary) in the manga style. Starting with basic shapes, professional manga artist Yishan Li shows how easy it is to turn circles, rectangles, squares and ovals into teens, kids, witches, wizards, monsters, animals and much more. Professional manga art from well-known comic creator Yishan Li Over 130 step-by-step drawings Easy method with great results Trade ReviewHaving received a copy of How to Draw MANGA in Simple Steps by Yishan Li, to fully scrutinize. I thought the best way to do it was to try drawing one of the Manga style characters following the step-by-step method of doing so directly from a page from the book. Being a 2D artist who sketches and draws the figure and form of people and animals pretty accurately in a purposely naive illustrative style and being a fan of comic book art, I decided to reproduce a copy- cat image of the character shown in (FIGURE 2) digitally, using a graphic's tablet (for the first time properly), alongside Photoshop computer software with which I am more familiar. Full review and images: https://notcompulsory.blogspot.co.uk/2017/09/drawing-manga-style.html * Not Compulsory *Table of ContentsIntroduction Manga Boy Manga Girls Manga Animals Manga Chibis Manga Myths & Legends

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Book Synopsis Get your coloring pencils ready to create something special with the Ocean Coloring Book and Stickers from Petit Collage.Color in the underwater scenes featuring seals, seahorses, turtles, otters, and many more sweet swimming creatures! When you’re done, decorate them with over 100 sea-themed stickers. Perfect for ages 4+, this coloring book will encourage hours of creative fun. Made using FSC paper and printed with vegetable inks, this is a plastic-free product.

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Book SynopsisBring your favourite furry friends to life with 35 projects from star of craft TV BARBARA DONOVAN.

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Book SynopsisCreate your own charming Christmas decorations and ornaments with best-selling needle-felting authors Roz Dace and Judy Balchin, AKA The Woolly Felters!The authors' previous book,Needle Felting for Beginners, won the BEST CRAFT BOOK in The Craft Business Awards 2021, and has sold over 70,000 copies.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisThe creators of the successful app Pocket Party have compiled this collection of easy, low-stakes games that you can enjoy with friends and family. From puzzle games to improv games to outdoor games and more, you'll find your new favorite game somewhere in these pages. There are a number of categories readers can choose from, such as Outdoor Games, Puzzle Games or Word Games--making it easy for you to find a type of game that matches what you want to play. Or, flip through the book at random to find a new favorite. The possibilities are endless with this creative and expansive collection of games. This book has everything readers need to play fun, low-stakes games with their friends. Best of all, you don't need any game pieces, boards or tables all you need are the people you want to play with, and you're ready to go.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisA JIGSAW WITH A TWIST - No two shapes are the same, and each piece is a fish (or other sea creature, plus one that''s a diver! See if you can spot it!)HOURS OF MADDENING FUN Have you got what it takes to assemble all 299 fish into a perfect puzzle?CHARMING ILLUSTRATIONS by Léa MaupetitSTURDY & ATTRACTIVE BOX perfect for gifting and storageHave you got what it takes to corral all 299 sea creatures into a perfect puzzle? In this cunning cluster puzzle, there are no regular jigsaw shapes: each piece takes the outline of the creature itself. And there are 299 of them! Can you fit them all together?

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Book SynopsisThis pack contains 200 high-quality origami sheets printed with colourful and attractive Cherry Blossom Patterns.

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Book SynopsisAn exciting new take on a literary classic, The Jane Austen Escape Room Book is sure to delight and intrigue fans, old and new, of Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice.This elegant book presents a chance to experience a classic piece of literature in an all-new way. The Jane Austen Escape Room Book combines the characters that you know and love with the intrigue of mystery as you solve puzzles and riddles to help Elizabeth find her way back to the arms of Mr. Darcy. This thrilling new take on the ever-adored Pride and Prejudice, exquisitely illustrated by Marjolein Bastin, is the perfect gift for the Jane Austen fan in your life!

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Book SynopsisTake an astonishing, amusing, and charmingly unconventional tour through the curious everyday lives of humans past. No need to spend the day at an archaeological dig when you can simply make a cup of tea, clamber into your comfiest chair, and settle in with The Encyclopedia of the Weird and Wonderful, a compilation of 92 funny, strange, and strangely funny tales throughout human history. Milo Rossi, the inquisitive mind behind the popular @miniminuteman on TikTok and YouTube, invites you to consider our own place in the long timeline of human development with this collection of anecdotes that shares the foibles, joys, and heartbreaks of being human (and an odd Neanderthal or two). With chapters organized by the different stages and aspects of life—childhood, food and drink, friendship, play and leisure, rites and rituals, love and sexuality, fashion and beauty, education and work, sickness and health, and, of course, death—dive into a treasure trove of intriguing facts and stories, including: The Paleolithic cave art of a five-year-old girl What you would have eaten in ancient Pompeii The surprising and stinky origins of royal Tyrian purple dye Ol’ Rip, the immortal (?) horned lizard from Texas How to win a round of the Royal Game of Ur, a nearly 5,000-year-old board game And much more! Covering various facets of everyday life, The Encyclopedia of the Weird and Wonderful is sure to make you laugh, provide some spark to your next conversation, and, maybe, even give you a new perspective on how best to live this thing called life.

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Book SynopsisHere is the ultimate reference for fitting test garments and transferring accurate adjustments to patterns! No matter what size or shape you are, wearing garments that fit perfectly makes you look and feel better. Rather than making commonly accepted changes to a commercial pattern, the method presented in this guide focuses on the way a test garment fits the body. The fabric is manipulated to improve the fit, and then those specific changes are made to the pattern. The result: patterns that fit perfectly!With The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting, you'll learn:- The importance of a fitting axis and how to use it during a fitting- How to recognize fitting issues, such as drag lines and folds- How to manipulate fabric to solve common and unusual fitting problems- How to transfer the fitting changes to your pattern easily- Basic pattern-making skills to ensure accurate alterationsSee the fitting process from start to finish on basic garments, fitted on real people. Then follow fitting solutions on different body types. The lessons you learn will help you fit any body.

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Book SynopsisThe ultimate guide to every aspect of sock knitting for knitters of all abilities. Whether you've never picked up a double pointed needle in your life or you've already started your sock knitting journey, this book will help you on your way.Table of ContentsIntroduction How to use this book All about socks Sock anatomy Measuring foot size Choosing the correct size Tools and materials Yarn Needles Extras Checking your tension/gauge Importance of tension/gauge Substituting yarn Swatching Measuring your tension/gauge Achieving tension/gauge in a pattern Sock recipes Getting started Cuff-down socks Toe-up socks Two-needle socks Variations on the sock recipes Sock elements Cuffs Heels Toes Sock projects Sloping Hills by Winwick Mum Under the Stars by Emma Potter Twisting Pathways by Vikki Bird Spring Lace by Rachel Fletcher Bracken Cables by Olivia Villareal Summer Meadows by Carmen Jorissen Autumn Berries by Kaitlin Barthold Red Sky At Night by Abby Brown Beads of Dew by Anniken Allis Winter Snow by Kerstin Balke Knitting in the round On double-pointed needles (DPNs) Joining the round On a short circular needle On a long circular needle for magic loop On flexible short needles Two at a time magic loop knitting Sock techniques Casting on Basic stitches Reading charts Increasing Decreasing Adding beads Picking up stitches Cables Short rows Working with more than one yarn/colour Casting (binding) off Finishing your project Abbreviations About the author Index Thanks The designers

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Book SynopsisThis is a modern, stylish and practical guide to the traditional craft of bookbinding, written by the founders of the London Centre for Book Arts, a destination workshop space that attracts visitors from all over the world. Accessible enough for complete beginners, while full of inspiration for those with more experience, this is the ultimate guide to making beautiful books by hand. Starting with an introduction to the bindery and a useful inventory of necessary tools and equipment, you’ll also learn about different paper types, and special finishes such as cloth coverings, headbands and ribbon markers. You’ll then find clear step-by-step instructions for six different hand-made book types, from simple pamphlets and concertinas to more elaborate multi-section bindings. Each project includes ideas for variations, resulting in over 20 different possible outcomes. There are also details about more advanced techniques and specialist bindings, as well as handy layout and design advice. A combination of practical and inspirational photography will guide readers clearly through each stage of the process, while showcasing the unique results that can be achieved and offering an exclusive peek into the workings of the authors’ studio.

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Book SynopsisDo you want to knit socks but don''t know where to begin? No Fear Sock Knitting will get you started on your sock knitting journey in no time. This practical guide to how to knit socks for absolute beginners and beyond is based on Denise DeSantis'' popular online tutorial series.Sock knitting can be daunting because it involves using circular and double pointed needles which less experienced knitters can find intimidating. This accessible guide will explain all the main sock knitting techniques in a very clear way so you can get started making beautiful hand knitted socks. If you don''t know your toe-ups from your cuff-downs, and you can''t tell a shadow wrap from an afterthought heel, author Denise DeSantis, will explain all. Her easy-to-follow tutorials for common sock knitting techniques have made her No Fear Sock Knittingseries on YouTube popular amongst knitters, and now you can have her expertise in one handy volume with this practical guide based on the series. The accessible tutorials will unlock even the trickiest sock knitting techniques, making this a fun and practical guide for everyone getting started with socks. In addition to the techniques there are knitting patterns for eight different beginner-friendly socks to try out your sock knitting skills. So, grab a copy now and start making beautiful hand-knitted socks today!

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Book SynopsisFollowing the international success of Animorphia, translated in over 30 languages, comes Imagimorphia, a strange and amazing colouring and doodling challenge from talented artist Kerby Rosanes. Kerby’s unique and ground-breaking black-and-white-line style lends the book wide cross-over appeal and will attract fans of all ages.Animals and objects are formed from weird and wonderful things. The intricate compositions are filled with mind-boggling detail and there are objects hidden throughout the book to find.Other books in the colouring series include:9781910552070 Animorphia9781910552261 Mythomorphia 9781910552865 Fantomorphia9781910552926 GeomorphiaTrade ReviewNot so much a colouring book as a work of exquisite art -- Isabelle Broom * Heat Magazine *Imagimorphia invites users to catch the doodle bug by finishing images of animals and landscapes * Mail on Sunday *One of the most anticipated books of 2016 * Colour With Claire Blog *

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Book SynopsisHow to work with a limited palette, with step-by-step demonstrations. One of the world's best art teachers shows you how to give spontaneity and lightness to your work with a limited palette. Using only three colours (up to five at the very most), is the most effective way to give your art a fresh feel. With an array of paintings, techniques and step-by-step demonstrations, renowned artist Hazel Soan goes through a range of specific colour combinations that work. Each chapter looks at a different combination, guided by a principal hue or pigment property. For landscapes she discusses cool blue and warm yellow, for gardens transparent reds and complimentary green, and for seascapes warm blue, cool yellow and granulation. The author explores the almost inexhaustible three-colour combinations but also discusses when four- or five-colour combinations would enhance or work more efficiently. This ensures your work is more cohesive, light and brings out the beauty of the watercolour medium. This extensive guide is packed with demonstrations, work in progress and finished paintings – and every single painting will have the colours itemized, making this not only a great technique book but great resource for colour combinations. Ideal for all painters, new or experienced.Trade Review‘There’s so much here that this becomes one of the most comprehensive studies of and guides to colour there is.’ Art Book Review Henry Malt 2022 ‘By no means the first book on painting with a limited palette, but it is certainly the most comprehensive and least prescriptive’ The Artist Henry Malt 2022

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Book SynopsisBestselling author Claire Shaeffer teaches you everything you need to know to plan and sew the perfect jacket. Based on couture techniques learnt from master tailors, this book begins with the equipment, materials, design elements, and sewing and construction techniques used in all types of tailoring. Part Two provides an illustrated step-by-step guide to making a couture jacket, explaining all the design options and alternative methods for making every element including collars, sleeves and pockets.Couture Tailoring includes over 800 step-by-step illustrations throughout, over 200 photographs of couture jackets by Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent and more than 100 couture tips.Any aspiring tailor must have this book in their fashion library.

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Book SynopsisDelectable dessert patterns to satisfy any sweet tooth. Crochet a variety of sweet things, including key chains, pouches, bag mascots, and more!

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Book SynopsisKeep and craft memories made by nature, whether it's a four-leaf clover, a bird's feather, beautiful blooms from a wedding bouquet, or something your child found for you! This complete guide includes 20 fun and beginner-friendly projects that are perfect for anyone who is looking to make gorgeous resin jewelry, crafts, and keepsakes from memorable moments, places, events, walks, and hikes. From butterfly earrings and a flower phone case to wood coasters, a feather pendant, and more, learn everything you need to know to successfully work with and pour resin, and how to preserve flowers, bugs, feathers, shells, and other natural treasures. With step-by-step instructions, coordinating photography, helpful tips throughout, and so much more,DIY Resin Crafting Projectsis a unique and engaging source of inspiration to introduce you to the exciting world of epoxy resin art!

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Book SynopsisThis beautiful book combines the author’s extensive ecological knowledge with art, and her passion for drawing with ink. It is packed with clear instruction and inspirational illustrations, and will be treasured by artists, illustrators, scientists and ecologists alike. Practical advice is given on using a range of materials and equipment for illustrating in pen and ink, as well as the collection and preservation of subject matter and reference material. Detailed instruction is given on how to create essential mark-making techniques that will enhance your illustrations through accurate depiction of shape, form, texture and pattern, and in the principles and elements of design. Subject-themed chapters include plants, strandline and marine specimens, fossils, invertebrates, and mammals. There are step-by-step exercises suitable for all skill levels, and case studies describing working practice as a professional illustrator.Trade ReviewThis utterly comprehensive guide covers, as its title suggests, not just animals but birds, plants, insects and invertebrates as well as ancillary items such as feathers, nests and egg cases. If you’re serious about drawing wildlife in all its forms, you won’t do better. -- Henry Malt - The Artist reviewer * The Artist *A book by a well educated and very experienced natural history illustrator who writes extremely well - and it shows on every one of its pages making it joy to read. -- Katherine Tyrrell, Making A Mark * Making A Mark *This is one of the most comprehensive books around on natural history drawing. -- Henry Malt * artbookreview *Sarah’s illustrations are beautiful and intricate, capturing the beauty of her subjects with sensitivity and skill. -- Jane Stroud, Leisure Painter * Leisure Painter *Overall this is a brilliant book, perfectly suited to building your natural history drawing skills. The subjects are brought alive by wonderful descriptions and personal experiences. An absolute pleasure to read… I'm sure I’ll treasure it for years to come, and refer back to it again and again. -- Sylvia Myers, Ecologist & Volunteer Manager, NHM * Natural History Museum Magazine *It is a beautiful book, thoroughly researched and exquisitely illustrated. It is an ideal book for students or for anyone thinking of embarking on a new hobby in art, as well as for nature lovers and lovers of art generally. A pleasure to read - deeply enjoy. -- Endymion Beer, reviewer British Naturalists Association * British Naturalists Association *This is a beautiful guide to the use of traditional pen and ink in natural history illustrations. Because of the book’s well-organized structure and inclusion of some beginner-friendly projects, it would also be a useful resource for instructors to share with their students. -- Camille Werther, reviewer JNSI * Journal of Natural Science Illustrations *

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Book SynopsisAges: 12+Number of players: 3-8Playing time: 90-120 minutesComponents: over-sized game board, 56 playing pieces, 96 playing cards, rules booklet, history booklet, replica p.o.w. aid box, 2 dice, some hidden surprisesColditz Castle World War IIAn impregnable fortress. An inescapable prison. Until now.Designed by Major Pat Reid, one of only a handful of prisoners-of-war to escape Colditz Castle, and screenwriter Brian Degas, Escape From Colditz is the iconic game of careful planning and nerves of steel.Become Allied escape officers--assemble your equipment, plot your escape routes, and coordinate your efforts to avoid the guards. Become the German security officer--maintain control through guile, ruthlessness, and careful observation despite limited numbers.This deluxe edition of the classic game for 2 to 6 players includes both original and updated rules, new hand-painted artwork, an oversized board, 56 wooden playing pieces,

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Book SynopsisA contemporary paint-every-day watercolour guide that explores foundational strokes and patterns and then builds new skills upon the foundations over the course of 30 days to create finished pieces.Trade Review“To the outside observer, Jenna Rainey’s work seems completely effortless, but it is in fact built on an extremely solid foundation of techniques, materials, and color theory. By pouring all of her hard-won knowledge into Everyday Watercolor, Jenna has created a wonderful resource for any aspiring watercolor artist.” —NOLE GAREY, founder and editor, Oh So Beautiful Paper“In this beautiful, inspiring, and accessible book, Jenna Rainey graciously breaks down her process and welcomes artists and enthusiasts alike to join her in the joy of watercolor painting.” —SATSUKI SHIBUYA, watercolor artistTable of ContentsCONTENTSSection OneTECHNIQUE 1718 DAY 1 STROKES 24 DAY 2 CURVES AND CIRCLES 32 DAY 3 STRAIGHT LINES AND TRIANGLES 38 DAY 4 LAYOUT 44 DAY 5 COMPOUND STROKES 50 DAY 6 COMPLEX CURVESSection TwoFORM, PERSPECTIVE, AND LIGHT 5556 DAY 7 LIGHT TO DARK LAYERING 62 DAY 8 BACKGROUND AND FOREGROUND 66 DAY 9 PATTERN 72 DAY 10 LIGHT SOURCE AND SHADING 76 DAY 11 VARIED HUE BLENDING 82 DAY 12 CAST SHADOWSection ThreeCOMPLEX SHAPES AND FORMS 8990 DAY 13 ANGLES AND FOLDS 96 DAY 14 PAINTING IN SECTIONS 102 DAY 15 COMPLEMENTARY COLORS 106 DAY 16 FINE LINES 110 DAY 17 HIGHLIGHTS, MID-TONES, AND SHADOWS 118 DAY 18 GESTURESection FourVALUE, VOLUME, AND DEPTH 125126 DAY 19 MOVEMENT 132 DAY 20 VALUES 138 DAY 21 SUBJECT IN A LANDSCAPE 146 DAY 22 ATMOSPHERIC PERSPECTIVE 154 DAY 23 GRAYSCALE VALUE 160 DAY 24 VOLUMESection FiveAPPLICATION 171172 DAY 25 WIDE LANDSCAPE: DESERT 180 DAY 26 WIDE LANDSCAPE: JUNGLE 186 DAY 27 FINAL DESERT PIECE: PART ONE 192 DAY 28 FINAL DESERT PIECE: PART TWO 198 DAY 29 FINAL JUNGLE PIECE: PART ONE 206 DAY 30 FINAL JUNGLE PIECE: PART TWO 210 DAY 31 AND BEYOND

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Book SynopsisTake inspiration from nature and sew, create and craft all year round with best-selling author and textile artist Tilly Rose. Boost your creativity, develop mindfulness through making, and create your own unique textile treasures.

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Book SynopsisThe perfect book for any adult who loves to challenge their brain but also craves a creative outlet that allows them to use the artistic and inventive side too.Featuring over 120 fantastic puzzles, mazes, dot-to-dots, crosswords, spot the difference, hanjie, sudoku and more, as well as colouring pages, The Adult Activity Book truly lives up to its name and presents a variety of puzzles and activities that will help boost your brain power. Apart from enhancing the brain, you will find that taking time for yourself and concentrating on an activity has real therapeutic benefits too, as it allows you to recharge your batteries and better cope with the stresses we all face every day.All the activities increase in difficulty as you work through the book, and all you need are pens and pencils to get stuck in – so challenge your brain to ever-harder puzzles or kick back and relax with bit of creative colouring.

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Book SynopsisAll watercolour landscape artists need to know how to paint water, and in this book Terry Harrison excels in demystifying the painting process. Here he shares his expert advice and no nonsense tips and techniques for producing quick, effective paintings of water. There are two or three-step exercises for painting water in all its varied moods and situations, including ripples, reflections, puddles, streams, breaking waves, choppy water, surf, bridges, riverbeds, boats, and much more. There are then ten step-by-step demonstrations that can be produced in half an hour: a misty lake, track with puddles, ford, waterfall, lazy river, stormy sea, cliffs, fishing from a boat, sunset estuary and fishing boat.Trade ReviewMar 13 This is a new series that Terry Harrison (whose idea it was) is justifiably proud of. There’s nothing new in the limited-time idea and I have in the past criticised some of its implementations for pandering to the “time-restricted artist”. I’m sorry, but art is something you devote time to. The whole point of it, of any recreation, is that it gives you a chance to relax and recharge. If you’re that busy-busy-busy, you probably have a time-management issue that bish-bosh painting won’t solve. But enough of that, because that’s not the matter in hand. The proper use of the half-hour painting is to discourage fiddling and promote the skill of getting things down quickly, as you see them. It’s about spontaneity and freshness, and therefore to be applauded. The structure here is really rather neat. The first half of the book is taken up with a series of exercises, Quick Techniques as they’re described here. These are all about ways of seeing and thinking, but also about methods of working – rocks and waves or foliage and petals in a few quick brushstrokes. The idea is to suggest your subject rather than capture it in every minor detail. Following that is a series of projects that bring everything together. There’s always a slight contradiction when you have printed demonstrations in a book that’s supposed to be about spontaneity, but you have to describe the process somehow and these short (4 page) sections are very effective at showing you how to work within the time allowed. I suspect the best way of making this work is to read the chapter through and then work with it as just notes. If you don’t head straight for home, but keep looking at the map, the oven-timer is going to ring while you’re still getting the tops off the tubes! There’s a nice busy feel to both these books that somehow encourages the whole idea they’re trying to promote and, price-wise, they’re a steal. * Artbookreview.net *April 13 Painting Flowers in Watercolour (Fiona Peart) and Painting Water in Watercolour (Terry Harrison) Half an hour is not a lot of time to paint a masterpiece, says Terry Harrison in his introduction. His advice on planning and preparing that follows is something that every artist should have tattooed on their forehead. The idea of a quick painting that captures the essence of your subject without fussing and fiddling is not a new one, but this series approaches it with simplified demonstrations that reflect the basis of the idea and offer some excellent hints and tips along the way. If I have an objection, Fiona Peart sums it up: 'Many of us do not have as much time as we would like to paint,' but if filling the odd half-hour gets you past the time block, then buying these imaginative guides is money well spent. * Artist, The *June 13 Developed especially for the busy artist who wants to achieve great paintings in just half an hour, this new 30 Minute Artist series claims to do just that. In his book on painting water, Terry demonstrates 23 basic exercises to build your confidence with the subject – from rippled reflections to crashing waves, fast-flowing streams to sun setting on the sea. These exercises are followed by ten step-by-step projects, which put into practice the techniques you've learnt. These books aim to build confidence in your chosen medium and subject so that you have the ability to paint effective paintings quickly. In time, this will help you to develop a loose style and keep your paintings lively. * Leisure Painter, The *May 13 Part of a new 30 Minute Artist series by the publisher, Terry Harrison teaches you how to paint water effectively in just 30 minutes. From beach scenes to ponds, rivers to seas, puddles and streams, Terry shows how to paint water in all its beautiful painterly effects. Still water, flowing water, gushing and sea spray. Boats, bridges, foliage, cliffs and houses are also included in the scenes. This book will build your confidence and skills and help you to create spontaneous paintings in just 30 minutes. There are 23 exercises, tips and techniques. In addition, you'll find 10 effective projects with step by step instructions. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 How to use this book 8 Materials 10 Colour 14 Quick techniques 16 Painting ripples 16 Lifting out ripples 16 Reflections in still water 18 Wet on dry reflections 18 Puddles 20 Rippled reflections 22 Waterfall 24 Fast-flowing stream 26 The sea from the beach 28 Breaking waves 30 Painting choppy water 32 Lifting out choppy water 32 Crashing wave 34 Wave breaking on rock 36 Beach with surf 38 Masking the horizon 40 Sunset on the sea 42 Bridge 44 Building and reflection 46 Riverbed 48 Marsh 50 Boat 52 Sky reflections 54 Projects 56 Track with Puddles 56 Ford 60 Wooded Waterfall 64 Lazy River 68 Stormy Sea 72 Cliffs 76 Fisherman 80 Misty Lake 84 Fishing Boat 88 Sunset Estuary 92 Index 96

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Book SynopsisExpert crafter Nicki Trench brings you 35 easy-to-follow patterns that will teach you how to crochet. Nicki Trench, one of the leading figures in the revival and promotion of home crafts, has designed a series of patterns that will guide you from the initial crochet stitches to producing beautiful projects incorporating a wide range of techniques. Starting you off is Crochet Know-How, which explains all the stitches with clear step-by-step artwork and instructions. Next, there are three chapters packed with patterns to improve your skills. In Starting Out, you will find a simple springtime throw and a pretty hat for a toddler, both of which you’ll find amazingly easy and quick to create. Once you’ve mastered these, Practice Makes Perfect provides more of a challenge. Whip up some cute gifts for babies and young children, including baby bibs and blankets, or treat yourself to a pair of gloves in soft double knit yarn and a chunky seashell scarf to keep you warm on chilly mornings. Finally, Confident Crocheting has more advanced patterns, ranging from a family of adorable Russian dolls to a cherub dress with decorative picot stitching.

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Book SynopsisThe versatility of batik is celebrated in inspirational designs and practical projects; learn how to apply cracking, ragging and resist-dyeing to create unique pieces from a silk square scarf to a batik screen.

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of Brain Games for Clever Kids and The Ordnance Survey Puzzle Book._____________________Put your puzzling prowess to the test with the huge variety of tricky, visual puzzles featured in this book.Challenging your non-verbal reasoning and logical thinking, Dr Gareth Moore presents over 100 visual puzzles that will surprise and delight, boosting your ability to solve problems in different ways and testing your mental agility. Among the puzzles to be found here are:Spot the difference, pairs, matchingMental rotation and cube foldingHanjieSliding piecesShape countingOptical illusions3D ReasoningVisual sequencesCode breakerExtreme mazesJigsawIn short, this engrossing book offers dozens of different creative challenges that will boost your brain power and keep you engaged.

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Book SynopsisA wonderful portable edition of Millie Marotta's Beautiful Birds and Treetop Treasures from the the Sunday Times and international bestseller Millie Marotta. Enter Millie’s wonderful world of treetop treasures and discover the birds nesting and flying high up in the treetops, and the myriad creatures found among the branches. The enchanting illustrations to colour in range from Major Mitchell’s cockatoo and rose robins, to the magnolia warbler, silver-eared mesia and whiskered treeswift. As well as the beautiful birds of the world, Millie’s intricate designs show the more unusual creatures residing in the treetops, such as the Amazonian milk frog, the sugar glider or the tree-kangaroo. Millie’s inimitable style is treasured by thousands around the world and in this exciting book there are all sorts of creatures and fauna waiting to be coloured in, from tiny insects to winged beasts and scaled reptiles to buds and blossoms. The world’s rainforests, woodlands and thickets are teeming with life and this book guarantees hours of relaxation and colouring fun.Trade Review'A wealth of inspiration for colouring enthusiasts.' * Gift Focus *'Gorgeous, calming … zen-inducing' * PaperCrafter Magazine *

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Book SynopsisTest your puzzling skills with this new book of Daily Mail Giant Crosswords. With both 'Cryptic' and 'Quick' clues for each super-size crossword, how you tackle them is up to you, whether you're up for a frustratingly tricky challenge, or a more speedy approach.

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Book SynopsisMastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay is a comprehensive workshop on sculpting the human form from head to toe for ceramic artists. Trade Review“Readers of this book will discover that Cristina is an alchemist, mixing accuracy and instinct in perfect measure to bring clay, slip, and glaze to life. As an artist, she translates the human form with sensitivity and expression. As an instructor, she articulates complex information clearly and deliberately for sculptors at any level of experience. Cristina’s fascination with the human form is infectious; her commitment and attention to detail are constants throughout the book.” * Leslie Noell, creative director, Penland School of Craft *“A wonderful resource for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of figurative sculpture. It is hard to imagine anyone better suited than Cristina to offer this expertise and experience as she is a gifted artist and generous educator. I highly recommend this book for artists or enthusiasts of any skill level.” * Steven Young Lee, resident artist director, Archie Bray Foundation *“This is an exceptional book by an exceptional artist. Cristina Córdova has delivered a rare document that reveals highly useful information in a refreshingly smart, concise, and elegantly organized way. In so doing, she has also captured a deeply felt regard for the poetry and beauty of the human figure and the power of clay to render emotional depth.” * Wayne Higby, professor of ceramic art, director and chief curator, Alfred Ceramic Art Museum, Alfred University *“Cristina Córdova’s unique multicultural education and perspective has given her an unmatched combination of academic rigor and unfettered creativity in her approach to sculpting the human figure. This book is a road map to acquiring a skill set that is rarely taught in art schools anymore… and an incredible gift to those on a quest to master figural sculpture.” * Garth Johnson, Paul Phillips and Sharon Sullivan Curator of Ceramics, Everson Museum of Art *“Creating figures and narratives that spring from her ongoing exploration of the human psyche and existential pathos, Cristina Córdova is a super talent whose sculptures, full body or fragmented, single figure or installation, contain the whole history of art in every pose and gesture, at once strikingly contemporary and timeless. Her imagination is matched by her skill and by her generosity in sharing her craft.” * Annie Carlano, senior curator of craft, design, and fashion, The Mint Museum *“This book is a testament to Cristina’s beautiful work as well as the clarity of instruction on how she makes it. She is a wealth of talent and integrity. She makes figuration look so seamless and easy. I might try coiling the figure now!” * Tip Toland, acclaimed ceramics artist *“Cristina Córdova is unquestionably one of the most talented, rigorous, and artistically ambitious artists working with the figure today—period.” * Tony Marsh, professor emeritus, California State University Long Beach *"Exceptionally well organized and presented making it an ideal DIY instruction guide and manual, Mastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay is an especially and unreservedly recommended as a textbook for art class curriculums on sculpture, and an essential, core addition to personal, professional, community, college, university, and art school Sculpting Art & Techniques collections." * Midwest Book Review *"Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this book is a valuable resource for enhancing your sculpting skills. The author's expertise and generosity shine through in her writing, making this book a must-have for any artist's collection." * CitizenSide *Table of ContentsForeword Introduction 1 PREPARATION Studio Setup Finding Inspiration Simple Armature Construction External Supports 2 GETTING STARTED How to Make a Slab Using Patterns 3 ASSEMBLING LOWER BODY PARTS ON ARMATURE Preparing Your Armature Joinery Footprint and Lower Leg The Foot Upper Leg Pelvis 4 ASSEMBLING THE UPPER BODY Getting Started Attaching Torso to Pelvis The Neck Breasts Arms 5 THE HEAD Using a Pattern to Create a Head Shape Adding Facial Features Refining Features Fleshing: Creating Flow and Continuity Hair Attaching Head to Neck 6 HANDS Forming the Hands Attaching the Hands 7 FLESHING OUT CORE FORMS Venting Reading Contours with Additional Photographic Views to Achieve Accuracy The Process Artistic Considerations 8 SURFACE DEVELOPMENT, DRYING, AND FIRING Surface Development Drying and Firing Appendix A: Four Cardinal Views Appendix B: Model Reference Photos Appendix C: Illustrative References Appendix D: Templates Acknowledgments Resources About the Author Index

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