Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

Book SynopsisMemory game (24 pieces).

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Book SynopsisMini puzzle.

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Book SynopsisSlide puzzle.

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

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

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Book SynopsisThe appeal of tin lies as much in its usefulness and practical applications as in its subtle tone and malleability. This book fully explores the different techniques used today, through 25 traditional and contemporary tinwork projects, all shown in step-by-step photographs. It provides comprehensive instruction for newcomers to the craft.

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Book SynopsisThis first book by Sandra Sigman, award-winning floral designer and owner of Les Fleurs, presents arranging flowers in the French style—bouquets that are chic and romantic.As Sandra Sigman learned while living in Paris in her twenties, the French consider each floral arrangement a unique work of art filled with passion, movement, texture, and surprise. In French Blooms, Sigman shares the distinct design principles she learned from her favorite Parisian florist, and offers tutorials, with images and instructions for creating French-inspired arrangements for different areas of the home. Projects include a mantle display in Ironstone gravy boats, compote-style dining room arrangements, powder room posies, and beribboned hand-tied bouquets. With chapters on choosing the right containers—from vintage stoneware crocks to baskets and white ceramic footed vases—and flower care and tools, along with lush photographs, many taken in Paris, Normandy, and ProTrade Review"Floral designer and owner of Les Fleurs Sandra Sigman shares her love affair with flowers in her first book titled French Blooms (Rizzoli, $40). Within the pages, Sigman showcases artistic arrangements in the French style and guides readers on container choices, flower care and utilizing the correct tools." —ATLANTA HOMES AND LIFESTYLES

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Book SynopsisBring the spectacular animal kingdom to life with this delightful colouring book, complete with over 45 breath-taking designs.The beauties of the natural world find artistic expression in this collection artworks of particularly handsome animals of all kinds. There are alligators and antelopes, camels and chameleons, llamas and lobsters. Some are realistic; others are embellished with flowers and elaborate designs. All are chosen to be a delight to colour.• Includes 45 designs • Printed on thick, high-quality paper • The images appear on single-sided pages to prevent bleed-through • Suitable for pencils, felt-tips or markers ABOUT THE SERIES: The bestselling Arcturus Creative Colouring series brings together delightful colouring books designed to relax the mind and inspire creativity. Printed on thick, high-quality paper, these bold and beautiful artworks present a wonderful colouring challenge.

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Book SynopsisThis delightful colouring book is inspired by the traditions Scandinavian folk art, with over 40 designs to fill with colour. Bold and beautiful, Scandinavian folk art has enchanted generations for its whimsical designs, vibrant colours and pleasing patterns. The designs in this colouring book reflect techniques like rosemaling (Norwegian), dalmålning (Swedish), and kurbits (Swedish) which involve painting intricate designs, floral motifs, and geometric patterns on different surfaces such as furniture, woodenware, and household items, as well as in embroidery and other textile arts. These traditional patterns include flowers, birds and animals and more abstract designs and have been created so they are a delight to colour in. All you need are a few pencils or markers and your imagination.• Includes 40 designs• Printed on thick, high-quality paper• The images appear on single-sided pages to prevent bleed-through• Suitable for pen

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Book Synopsis ''A terrific work that is particularly suited for those from beginner to club player''JOHN WATSON, The Week in ChessThe fully revised and updated award-winning, bestselling, classic chess book by FIDE Master and chess world-record holder, Graham Burgess.Comprehensive and clear, this fully revised and updated fourth edition of Graham Burgess''s bestselling chess classic is an invaluable guide to help any player progress to good club level and better. It provides a complete guide to the main chess openings along with hundreds of test positions for players at every level. This new edition includes:Expanded and updated sections on playing online chess and using computers.A complete and detailed guide to all the main chess openings.Hundreds of new training exercises for players of all standards.Courses in tactics, attacking strategy, combinations and endgames.Analysis of some of the greatest games ever

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

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

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

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Book SynopsisA Fresh Twist on Vintage Flower Meanings & Arrangements"This book is enchanting to the eyes, inspiring for the mind, and refreshing for the soul.” —Maggie Hyde, Petal Back Farm#1 New Release in Plant & Animal Photography, Photograpy Equipment & Techniques, and Nature Literary CriticismThis floriography guide is a gorgeous and inspired combination of vintage Victorian flower meanings, quotes, and lore perfectly entwined with a contemporary toolbox for creating stunning flower arrangements and bouquets.For those who want to create beautiful bouquets and flower arrangements with history. Blooming with inspirational lifestyle photography by Jess Buttermore of Cedar House Living, The Love Language of Flowers will blow you away with an intriguing history of flowers alongside step-by-step instructions for creating 25 tasteful, meaningful arrangements.Express yourself and show others you care. With stunning photographs of different types of flowers, a detailed list of floral arranging tools and supplies, and fascinating Victorian flower meanings, The Love Language of Flowers provides you with an elegant way to express your feelings or bring your self-care to the next level.Inside The Love Language of Flowers, find: A visual glossary of flowers and their Victorian meanings Simple step-by-step instructions for creating twenty-five gorgeous floral arrangements Suggestions for introducing contemporary plants and other interesting elements to bring a fresh look to classic bouquets If you like botanical books illustrated with stunning photography and floral design, such as Floriography, The Complete Language of Flowers, or Growing Flowers, you’ll love The Love Language of Flowers.Trade ReviewPraise“A most elegant and timeless compendium for flower lovers. The gorgeous photography accompanied by heartfelt prose, the advice and wisdom, the recipes for arranging, and the meaning of flower varieties…this book is truly a genuine tribute to blooms and blossoms, and a guide I never knew I so desperately needed.”—Angela Ferraro-Fanning, founder of Axe & Root Homestead, author of The Sustainable Homestead“Jess has a magical way of capturing the fascinating world of botanicals, encouraging us into the garden and guiding us in creating beauty with gifts from nature. This book is enchanting to the eyes, inspiring for the mind, and refreshing for the soul.”—Maggie Hyde, Petal Back Farm“The lost art of using flowers to express yourself is something Jess is bringing back to life. This book gives beautiful and practical information, inspiring us all to speak in a forgotten language. It’s a welcome return to bringing magic back to not only special occasions, but also our everyday.”—Bailey Van Tassel, The Kitchen Garden Society“The Love Language of Flowers is bursting with stunning photography and practical guides to elevate your own floral designs. It should be an essential addition to every flower lover’s tool kit.”—Graeme Corbett, Bloom & Burn“A feast for the eyes, a spark to the mind, and a tug on the heart. Jess brings her wholly unique and stunning touch to the art of floral arrangements. A complete capture of simple beauty, and the power flowers evoke in us all.”—Skye Hamilton, Hamilton House Designs“The Love Language of Flowers is sure to become a treasured resource of inspiration and technique for all those who find themselves called to create with nature’s floral bounties. A book to enjoy alongside warm tea on cold winter days, as we wait for spring blossoms to allow us to put it to practical use.”—Robyn Chubey, Prairie Glow Acres“Flowers are a language unto themselves, and they engage our senses on a different level. Whether we garden and work with them on a regular basis or we simply buy them to enjoy and create a mood or decorate a space, flowers are the perfect adornment and creative medium. The Love Language of Flowers is a visually captivating and soul-inspiring book that will put you in touch with the ‘craft of making.’ It will draw you into the timeless, creative space of using your hands to bring beauty to life. This book will inspire you in a multitude of ways as it provides you with the guidance, tools, and timeless wisdom to cultivate beautiful projects to love again and again.”—Jan and Erin Johnson, founders of Trailblazher Inc., publishers of Trailblazher magazine“The Love Language of Flowers draws you in with stunning photography and keeps the reader engaged with an abundance of floral tips and tricks. Each page inspires gardeners and vintage lovers alike to create beautiful bouquets of their own. Cheers to Buttermore and McGuinness.”—Penny Pennington Weeks, gardener and blogger

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Book SynopsisForge • Carve • Weave • Mould • Ignite, Highly readable and hugely practical this book is either armchair reading or a valuable guide to getting your hands dirty and creating something useful as you discover the art of slow technology. Featuring topics such as building bread ovens, making clay pots in a bonfire, felling and processing trees, cooking on open fires, blacksmithing, beer making, wattle and daubing, this book is a combination of the dangerous book for boys and a practical manual of experimental archaeology and historical research., Author: Peter Ginn is an archaeologist and historian who graduated from the Institute of Archaeology at University College London and has a particular interest in experimental archaeology. His research interests include Egyptology, field archaeology and primitive technologies, and he specialises in 19th-century farming practice. Peter is best known for his BBC TV appearances in series such as Tales from the Green Valley, Victorian Farm, Secrets of the Castle and A Tudor Feast at Christmas. Peter now lives in Somerset in an amazing Victorian property that he is renovating.Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Tools and materials 10 FIRE 12 Light a fire 16 Cooking with fire 20 Spit-roast meat 24 Smoke fish 26 How to make charcoal 28 The art of smithing 30 Make a poker 32 Mould with metal 34 Cast a ring 36 Working with copper 38 How to hammer copper 39 Fire as light 42 Make a wax candle 44 EARTH 46 Working with clay 50 Make a ring pot 52 Build a bonfire kiln 54 The history of the oven 56 Build a bread oven 57 Bake fish in clay 60 Salt of the earth 62 Extract salt over a fire 64 The history of dyes 66 How to extract plant dyes 68 WOOD 70 How to fell a tree 74 Processing a felled tree 76 Construct a wattle and daub house 78 Carve a wooden spoon 82 Make a pestle and mortar 84 Weave a willow basket 86 Make a loom and weave cloth 90 Make music 94 STONE 96 Working with flint 100 Knapp flint 101 Light a fire with flint 106 Sharpen tools 108 Working with stone 112 Dry stone walls 114 Construct a dry stone wall 115 WATER 118 Manage water 123 Purify water 125 Tan leather 126 Make neatsfoot oil 130 Brew beer 132 Make cider 136 Distil perfume 138 Make felt 140 Catch fish 142 Steam-powered toy boat 144 Index 146

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Book SynopsisCreate all the pets you have ever wanted with these wonderful projects. Enjoy 250 sheets of specially designed printed paper and a 64-page instruction book that guides you step by step through 15 wonderful animal paper projects, from a delightful dachshund to a cuddly hamster and even a perfect Persian cat. These friendly animals can be used as lovely gifts to give to friends or as unique decorations to leave throughout the house! Origami is also known to help encourage connectedness, awareness and improved physical and emotional health. Not only that, what could possibly bring you more inner peace than a selection of cute and cuddly pets?

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

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Book SynopsisPacked with fascinating facts, hilarious anecdotes and jaw-dropping moments from football's rich history, this compact compendium is for die-hard supporters and newcomers to the sport alike. From the origins of the game to its notorious controversies, this book contains everything you need to know about the world's most popular sport!

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Book SynopsisIn Draw 1,001 Animals, award-winning artist Mark Bergin shows how simple shapes can be transformed into a vast variety of animals. There are pages looking at materials and techniques, and step-by-step projects that train the eye to deconstruct the simple shapes that go into constructing a detailed drawing, helping you to visualise your drawings of animals. Great for absolute beginners or any artist wanting to renew and improve their drawing skills. It features animals from a wide variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, savanna, Arctic tundra and pets.

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Book SynopsisCosy colos, a creative colouring book for a soothing break. Little ghosts and animals in costumes await you in these illustrations that are as scary as they are adorable. Choose your most beautiful autumn colour palettes and colour to your heart''s pleasure: let yourself be carried away by these illustrations full of softness for a 100% cosy break! The Hachette Heroes Cosy colos offer : - Thick 170-gram paper: perfect for colouring without piercing the page! - Illustrations on one side only - A perfect opportunity to relax while colouring in spooky but adorable scenes!

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Book SynopsisSpeedy Words.

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Book SynopsisImmerse yourself in holiday cheer and fun with the Christmas Scramble 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle! Enjoy hours of puzzle-solving joy and challenge with this vibrant Christmas-themed image designed by Mike Jupp. Perfect for the family to bring joy and togetherness in the holiday season! Dimensions: 66 x 50cm.

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Book SynopsisWith 26 projects, From Seed to Bloom is a modern and practical guide to growing and styling your own floral arrangements.Starting by tackling the principles of floristry from seed to bloom, Milli takes you through the seasons and explores the top plants to grow and how to style them. Each chapter spotlights the growing highlights of the season with top tips on how to sow, grow and harvest. Milli also shares her own stories from the field to help inspire and encourage you to grow your own, with advice on soil health, composting, sustainable growing and how to plan your planting.From Seed to Bloom includes beautiful lifestyle photography shot through the year from Milli's field, as well as step-by-step photography that celebrates the art of creating beautiful floral pieces, to gift and to keep. This is a book for those who seek an approachable and accessible insight into the wonderful world of flower growing and floral arranging.Learn to play with colour and texture both in your planting and styling with From Seed to Bloom, as you learn how to create designs with confidence and bring nature into your home.Trade ReviewA must for those aspiring to grow cut flowers. * The English Garden *

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Book SynopsisLearn the traditional Japanese needlework technique of sashiko with this fun and inspiring craft deck. Get started on your sashiko journey with 52 stitches presented on easy to follow cards with everything you need to know about creating beautiful patterns from the simplest of stitches.

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Book SynopsisWelcome to the charming world of Luna Lapin, a quiet and kind rabbit with impeccable taste. Learn how to sew your own felt rabbit along with her exquisite wardrobe including 20 garment and accessory sewing patterns. All the clothes are made using the finest fabrics including wool felt, lace and Liberty print cotton. Choose from a perfectly tailored wool coat, matching tweed skirt and bag, or pretty lace set. Don''t forget the accessories there are bunny boots and tiny French knickers to create. Luna even has the perfect pair of pyjamas for elegant lounging and a comfy armchair to relax in. You will be captivated by the stories surrounding Luna on her adventures as she goes for a job interview and visits the theatre. Her brother Alfie even makes an appearance in his own dapper outfit of jeans, waistcoat and tailored shirt.These adorable sewing patterns will appeal to the child in all of us and make beautiful heirloom gifts to treasure.Table of ContentsIntroduction to Luna Contents listing About Luna Hand sewing techniques Machine sewing techniques Materials and tools Technical information Step-by-step instructions, patterns and photographs: How to make Luna and her brother Alfie T-shirt dress and lace shrug Lace knickers, boots and bag Wool coat and polka-dot dress Liberty patchwork scarf Alfie's gingham shirt, wool waistcoat and jeans Crossover pyjamas Luna's armchair and cushions Matching lace setChristmas cape and shoes Wool skirt and shoulder bag Templates Suppliers Acknowledgements About the Author Index Copyright

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Book SynopsisWelcome to the third and fabulous colouring book from the sensational Kerby Rosanes, Mythomorphia.Featuring his unique and intricate ink drawings, this book includes images of gorgeous mythological creatures morphing and shapeshifting to create Kerby’s signature, breath-taking scenes. From magnificent dragons and a fiery phoenix to beautiful mermaids and mischievous goblins, this book is truly out of this world. Every super-detailed picture can be coloured in and all of them hide a selection of search objects to find. Readers will have to keep their eyes peeled for these items scattered throughout the pages.On top of the success of Animorphia and Imagimorphia, Kerby's skills have already earned him a solid fan base. His Sketchy Stories Facebook page has more than 1,000,000 likes, he has had 275,000 project views on Behance and his incredible website (www.kerbyrosanes.com) is getting more hits by the day.Other books in the colouring series include:9781910552070 Animorphia9781910552148 Imagimorphia 9781910552865 Fantomorphia9781910552926 Geomorphia

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Book SynopsisThis book packs in the combined wisdom of two writer-educators who are consummate problem solvers when it comes to jewellery making. Together they show the reader how to fix common screw-ups, try out new creative techniques, get more skilled at familiar methods, improvise tools and discover ways to save money, such as recycling gold and other precious metal scraps. From beading to setting a stone, understanding annealing to soldering your own silver chain, you can riffle through the book, experimenting with new innovations to create your unique jewellery designs. Packed with over 200 expert fixes, insider tips, and tricks of the trade, content is arranged by topic to enable any jewellery maker to achieve a striking and professional look to their earrings, necklaces, rings, and more. A must-have for anyone who makes their own jewellery, whether at beginner or intermediate level.Trade ReviewJan 14 If you have ever wanted to know anything about jewellery making techniques, this is definitely the book you need. It is incredibly comprehensive, packed with information and ideas, with clear demonstrations of techniques such as how to use a wheel to polish, how to create a folded piece of metal, barrel polishing, the pros and cons of using ready made settings and much much more. It offers a way to experiment and innovate in order to create unique jewellery designs; as well as how to improvise tools and save money by using recycled materials, gold and other metal scraps. A very useful book which will undoubtedly become a key reference work for many new to the jewellery making craft. Well written, well presented, and a very good buy if you are looking for a present. * Monstersandcritics.com *October 2014 Ever fancied yourself as a silver smith? Then this book is for you! Beginners will find inspiration and those already into jewellery making will find more than 350 expert tips and tricks of the trade. Arranged by topic so you can easily achieve professional looking earrings, necklaces, rings and more. * My Weekly *Oct 13 Two makers come together to solve all your jewellery making problems. Find out everything you want to know, including fixing mistakes, techniques, methods, recycling and more. Includes beading, wire, metalwork and non-traditional materials. 350 expert tips arranged by topic. Great photography, easy to use format. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *Spring/Summer 2015 This is an extremely comprehensive book on the many and varied techniques of making jewellery. It is over 150 pages long and the authors manage to cram a great deal of information into its pages. The book is highly illustrated with very clear photographs and the writing style is concise and informative - overall a very useful book for any jewellery maker to have in their library. The book is unusual in that it covers both beading and metalworking. Most books on these subjects stick to one or the other because the tools and techniques are so different. But those who enjoy making bead jewellery often want to move on into metalworking of various kinds so this book covers that transition neatly. The two authors are each specialists in their own type of jewellery making - Sara Withers in beading and Xuella Arnold in metalworking - so each subject is covered by and expert in the field. In all, this is a beautifully written and illustrated book and really does manage to cover a huge range of techniques that will be enjoyed by many. Beginners will find it an excellent primer with a very wide sweep while advanced metalworkers will find it fills gaps in their knowledge and shows some new and interesting ways of improving their techniques. * Bead Society For Great Britain *Table of ContentsPrelims 5 Introduction 2 Metal Jewelry Basics 20 Working with Metal 48 Simple Jewelry Designs 16 Threading and Finishing 28 Using Wire and Metal 26 Experimenting with New Materials 10 Index and Creditsn5

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Book SynopsisNew in Paperback. Paper Flowers is an inspirational book showing you how to create realistic, everlasting paper flowers and foliage for use in stunning bouquets, buttonholes and table displays. The clear step-by-step photographs and instructions in this book will guide you in making delicate paper flowers for focal pieces, accents, or for height and texture. In addition, there’s a range of beautiful vines and foliage. The flowers include both dramatic and romantic blooms, such as rose, peony, anemone, cosmos, dahlia, tulip, ranunculus and sweet pea. As well as comprehensive chapters on tools, materials and techniques, including paper manipulation and colouring, there is a fascinating section on the fine art principles of flower arranging. This includes colour scheme considerations, scale, positive/negative space, and how to create movement, texture, depth, shape, form and line. Finally, there are instructions on making a range of exquisite flower arrangements and bouquets, plus guidance on the aftercare and handling of the finished pieces. Paper Flowers is the new Paperback edition of Paper Flower Art (Hardback) 9781784945442.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive step-by-step guide that will take your craft to a new level. The art of soldering - permanently joining metal components with a torch and solder - is seen as a challenge by many crafters. But this book makes it an easy-to-learn technique for creating beautiful jewellery projects. The book features clear instructions for jewellers of all levels, from the hobbyist to the experienced maker who is looking to expand their soldering skills. It includes pre- and post-soldering techniques, safety procedures, essential equipment and materials required, along with tips and tricks of the trade from leading jewellers. Plus fifteen inspiring step-by-step jewellery projects, including rings, necklaces, chains, earrings, bangles, and more.Trade ReviewOct 13 A beautifully presented how to book with step by step photographs of techniques and projects. Clear instructions and great photography with beautifully designed projects. Learn how to master soldering and employ this useful technique to create beautiful jewellery. There are 15 projects and you will be raring to try your new techniques on your own creative ideas and designs. This is a very attractive book. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *Table of ContentsPRELIMS ( 5 p p ) INTRODUCTION ( 4 p p ) An introduction to the history of soldering, from traditional methods, such as mouth blowing torches, to modern day micro welders. CHAPTER ONE /HOT CONNECTIONS : HOW JEWELLERS USE SOLDER (12 pp) A gallery of inspirational work by leading jewelers, showing the use of solder in a range of constructions. In each example, the solder joins are "called out" using a graphic device to truly reveal how pieces are constructed. CHAPTER TWO / EQUIPMENT (6pp) Basic Soldering Equipment and Tools: The Essentials • Soldering torches: mouth, gas, gas and air, acetylene, and micro welder • Revolving soldering turntable • Fire bricks/heat proof blocks and boards: charcoal block, soldering block, pumice block, honeycomb ceramic board, and firebrick board • Soldering jigs and wigs: wire nest, ring ceramic holder, third hand base, and soldering pins and clips • Tweezers: reverse action, straight and curved, stainless steel, brass, and plastic • Soldering probe: for the directing and moving of solder • Small brush: the advantages of using a slightly finer, more expensive brush • Snipes for cutting solder pallions • Selection of small and fine files • Varying degrees of solder hardness: stripe, wire, pallions, and pre-mixed solder paste • Types of solder: silver, gold, platinum, and palladium solders • Flux: traditional borax cone and dish, premixed syringe flux, flux powder, and borax powder • Pickle • Cleaning equipment: metal or plastic wire brush, emery paper, emery sticks, and water of air stone CHAPTER THREE /HEALTH AND SAFETY (2pp) • Heat proof equipment and materials, and how to use them • Essential fire safety equipment: extinguisher and blanket • Storing your torch safely when not in use • Safety position of gas canister and lighters • Suitable clothing to prevent fire risk • Using tweezers and prolongs: safely moving solder and transferring hot parts to and from the soldering area • Hair safety • Protective eye wear • First aid equipment and burns medicine • Lighting: how to set up the optimum lighting conditions for soldering CHAPTER FOUR / INTRODUCTION TO SOLDERING ( 6pp ) This section covers the fundamental aspects of soldering and key issues that need to be considered before you start, from setting up the best working environment to understanding how solder works. Before soldering Think about the construction of your final piece: if you know the number of parts and solder joins you will need, then you already have the basic guide to the soldering stages of your project. You can then number solder joins, and ultimately understand which solder to apply when, and why. Lighting Though direct overhead lighting is best while preparing parts for soldering, a slightly darker environment for the actual soldering itself is recommended: a low, dim light provides the optimum conditions for looking at metal color and torch flame. Preparing parts and joins Mind the gap: solder flows along joins and will not connect gaps. Always make sure that the pieces to be joined sit snugly together—joins should be touching securely to allow the solder to flow in perfect channels, making for strong and successful soldering. When soldering tubing or metal parts that are prone to relaxation or changes in size when heated, you can avoid excess metal movement during the soldering process by annealing first. Handling of parts To get the perfect finish, joins have to be emeried, cleaned, and placed in pickle and water before soldering. Avoid touching the parts with your hands, as any oil residue from your skin will prevent the solder flowing efficiently. Positioning the pieces Air needs to circulate freely around the parts being soldered, so place them on stilts or other props. This will also make the pieces more accessible, both visually and physically—raising up your piece on fire bricks or a revolving turntable, for example, will help you position yourself comfortably at your work. Good posture and steady hands are vital when soldering, so maximize your hand control by using your work surface for support. Understanding solder With solder, understanding how conditions and technique can cause the solder to react will improve the results you can get from it. Always remember that solder flows toward the heat, so directing the flame evenly around the join area will keep the solder flowing consistently. Fluxes There are various types of flux, and choosing the right one for the particular soldering task will give you the most favorable soldering surface and conditions to work in. Blow torch Understand which type of heat and flame to apply, and when to withdraw it. When using different torches other techniques and rules have to be applied. For example, a micro welder’s flame should be aimed precisely at the join for successful soldering. Post-soldering The processes you carry out after soldering depend on the finish you want and the type of solder join, but typical post-soldering steps include quenching in water and pickle, to anneal the piece and remove excess solder and flux marks. Knowing which technique to use is key: quenching can damage certain parts, particularly flat forms, so understanding the effects of different quenching temperatures can make or break a project. Cleaning: fixing mistakes Making mistakes is all part of the learning process, and soldering is no exception. Learn how to clean and disengage incorrectly soldered parts, and you will be able to start afresh but still use the pieces you have prepared. Cleaning: after successful soldering When everything has been done correctly, cleaning the soldered parts should be fairly simple and only require emery paper and sticks. CHAPTER FIVE/ TECHNIQUES ( 54pp ) • Sweat soldering • Butt soldering • Soldering jump rings: preparing the join • Soldering tubing: creating a tight fitting join before you solder • Multi-solder joins with varying solders • Using stitches to hold parts in position for soldering • Soldering surfaces and positioning tools/jigs for different pieces • How to hold small and difficult parts for soldering: using binding wire and making secure clips • Soldering different metals: silver, gold, platinum, and palladium • Solder inhibitors: keeping solder from running into unwanted areas • Stick feed soldering for bigger parts • Soldering onto a textured or patterned surface (stone setting on textured background) • Granulation, reticulation, and fusing • Stone work: how to solder near stones (and other non-metal materials), and how to protect them during repairs • Soldering of more complex metals such as platinum and palladium • Use of PUK or laser soldering • Quenching, cooling, and pickling, and which metals require quenching • Cleaning your work after soldering • Removing fire-stains • Plating or colouring metal after soldering CHAPTER SIX / PROJECTS ( 60pp ) RING Soldering and preparation: applying parts before shaping and forming STONE SETTING ON A RING Soldering a rub-over setting PENDANT • Flat-to-flat soldering: applying slightly formed parts to a flat surface, • Forming sections on the domed area before soldering (using pre-mixed solder) Page 5 Copyright c 2012 Quarto Publishing plc EARRINGS • Soldering various metals: gold to silver • How to solder earring fittings FILIGREE PENDANT • Multi-solder joins, using solders of varying hardness • Filigree: How to create and solder BANGLE Lengthy solder joins: bangle project with round and square wire twisted together, and soldered before forming SPHERE CUFFLINKS Soldering a closed vacuum area; how to create hidden air holes OPEN BEZEL LOCKET PENDANT • Soldering and fitting a bezel • Using stitches to hold the bezel in position for soldering EARRING/CAST PARTS • Soldering parts to cast items or pieces made from precious metal clay • How to burnish cast items to seal the porosity so that solder does not bleed onto them OPEN BANGLE Soldering of hinges; involves tube soldering and solder inhibitors NECKLACE • Soldering a chain • Probe soldering • Soldering a bezel BROOCH WITH MOVING PARTS • Soldering an item which requires movement • Soldering a brooch finding PENDANT/NECKLACE Soldering inlaid patterns BUSINESS CARD HOLDER • Soldering larger pieces • Sweat soldering: how to secure pieces with binding wire and other equipment RING Soldering platinum and palladium ESSENTIAL INFORMATION (4pp) • Melting temperatures: solder types • Melting temperatures: metal types • Metal annealing temperatures: which metals are safe and should be quenched after soldering REFERENCES, INDEX, AND CREDITS (7pp)

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Book SynopsisAward-winning artist Hashim Akib's striking portraits are at the heart of this inspirational book. The subject of portraiture is seen by many as the zenith of art, and Hash's easygoing, unpretentious style puts fantastic results within the reach of hobby artists and aspiring professionals alike. Assuming nothing and starting from the basics – making it suitable even for the enthusiastic beginner – this book includes six step-by-step projects to follow; along with friendly but in-depth advice on colour palettes; skintone; composition; working from photographs and models; markmaking; lighting; atmosphere and much more. The book covers many types of portraiture – from the self-portrait to full-length portraits – all presented in Hash's striking, free and contemporary style.Trade Review'Exciting' is not normally a word springs to mind when discussing books on portraiture. 'Thorough', maybe, or 'comprehensive' - what you are mostly looking for is something that describes working methods clearly and illustrated the type of people you can relate to. This, though, is something different. Hashim Akib captures likenesses well, but he also introduces a sense of character, personality and presence through his trademark dynamic brushwork. It would be all too easy for this to fall wide of the mark, becoming mannered, or maybe too individual to have more general appeal. Instead, and this is down to his very considerable technical expertise, the book makes you want to get started and even to try Hashim's own demonstrations - they're people you feel you'd really like to meet. Excitement on its own would not be enough, of course, so be assured that this is thorough and comprehensive as well. * The Artist *Hashim has yet again written a bold exciting and informative book. His colour use is just perfectly shown. He explains how to paint portraits so well that it makes it so much easier to attempt. It makes painting so much fun and lets artists go for it, in a controlled, but free way. I have learnt so much reading this book and will be painting this way with excitement ahead. Wow, thanks. -- Melanie Bettridge * Customer review *Being a huge fan of Hash's style, I eagerly anticipated the arrival of this latest book and was not disappointed. This is a great book for getting an insight into an artist's process, it's like having a personal workshop which you can keep referring back to. Acrylics are not the obvious medium choice for portraiture but the strong and dynamic style Hashim uses is both inspiring and contemporary. He makes it look so simple and easy! There are several step by step examples to guide you, from initial planning though the sculptural painting process, lots of hints and tips, and insights into making portrait painting loose but exciting. From lighting and expressions to mark making, Hashim explains in detail his method and the materials used. The biggest setback to a beginner or the casual hobby artist, is the confidence required to use the paint so freely, and have the observation skills required to get the best results, hopefully this book will inspire you to take the large leap of faith and try it. So if you are a beginner looking for different ways in which to tackle the complex area of portraiture or somebody more advanced wanting to experiment with or change to a more colourful and loose approach, I would urge everyone to get this book, have a go and try emulating this style. -- Michelle Tilston Fletcher * Customer review *This is a book that's full of life and of a love of people as well as painting. Hashim will show you how to capture not just the appearance of your subject, but also their character. This is an dynamic author who's not only enthusiastic about his subject, but excellent at conveying that and explaining his methods. * The SAA *FACE FACTS Learn the basics of portraiture and how to unleash your own painting techniques with this guide by artist Hashim Akib Rather than taking a formal learning approach in his book, artist and author Hashim Akib explains useful portrait painting concepts while also encouraging you to explore your own style. It opens with an introduction to tools and materials, before setting aside chapters to compositional exercises, colour theory and detailed painting tutorials. So far, so familiar. But this book’s selling point is that it knows it’s a jumping-off point for further experimentation. Hobbyists will benefit from the advice on paint application and colour mixing, while experienced artists will appreciate the technical know-how on display in the step-by-step guides. The final chapters show you how to push what you’ve learnt even further with lessons on texture, profiles and unusual expressions. As Hashim says in his introduction, photography has had a huge impact on portraiture. With this in mind, his guide is a valuable exploration of how contemporary portraiture can still be relevant today, and what you need to consider if you want to create engaging paintings with personality. Working from one reference photo, Hashim Akib explains how he paints skin tones and uses just a few extra brush marks to describe the face. For this portrait piece, Hashim uses earthy and dark neutrals, which frame the warmer colours. -- Chris Allcock * Imagine Fx *This is the most exciting book I've ever seen about portrait painting. Hashim's paintings are dynamic and full of life. They're about as are removed from the often stuffy canvases you see on the walls of institutions as it's possible to get. Most books on portraiture concentrate on technique and getting a likeness. Frankly, if you want that, you should probably stick to photography. What painting can do is express character and provide an inner vision that gives a sense of presence, and that's here in profusion. I wouldn't want you to think there's nothing here about technique-there's plenty of it, but it's bound up with actual paintings that show how things work in practice, rather than theory. There is, for example, a very handy section on facial features- eyes, noses and mouths. Hashim still manages to tell you more about the differences between men and women and racial types than you'll find in many other books. So, you see, this is a book that teaches by example-and what examples! Every kind of face is here and there are quite a few different styles of painting too, including some startling uses of colour. It's that kind of book. I've often spoken about the ones which will have you itching to get out your brushes and this is another example of them. Even if you've never painted a portrait in your life, you can't help feeling your feet starting to tap and wanting to get up and dance with Hashim. * Paint Magazine *“Exciting” isn’t normally a word I’d associated with portraiture. “Thorough”, “lifelike”, maybe even “vibrant”, but it’s not normally a subject to get the pulses racing. This, though, is astounding. Hashim’s style is quite blocky and, if you were looking for almost photographic realism, this is not for you. You actually have to look at the finished results for a few seconds before the features of the faces emerge. When they do, however, they’re full of character and these are people whose presence you can feel. This is something that all portrait painters strive for, but it’s one of the most difficult qualities to achieve. If personality is your goal, place your order now. I think it also helps that Hashim appears simply to like people. I don’t think it would be possible to get results like this if you simply regarded your subjects as a job. There’s a warmth here, and an understanding of the life and light behind mere structure and outward appearance. This isn’t really something that can be taught, so I’d suggest you might simply want to learn from example here – don’t expect a magic ingredient. In practical terms, the book offers all the variety you could want. There are male and female figures, different hair styles and skin colours and a wide range of ages. Hashim explains colour, lighting and perspective and he’s also rather good on the main features – eyes, noses, ears, etc. Here, his style is your friend as its vibrancy makes what is inevitably a rather technical section interesting and – well – exciting. -- Henry Malt * Art Book Review *Like most painters, I find painting portraits challenging. I found this book very interesting because for me it has a new approach. Treating the face like blocks. Akib tells us to beware of realism. This book enables you to master the essentials and capture the atmosphere, the character. It's worth looking at no matter what your skill, for the treatment is quite different. Plenty of examples, male, female, young, old. Follow the 6 varied step-by-step projects. Faces, features and even full length portraits are covered. I particularly like the unusual expressions pages and the way they were presented. One thing of note, I found I liked the older style and not his new way of using very thick paint, but that is just personal preference and it is good to experiment and try different styles and ways of using paint. Also close-ups are not how the paintings will appear when viewed on a wall. I cannot believe it is 7 years since his last book, what a lot he has achieved. -- Karen Platt * Amazon *Painting Portraits in Acrylics is a practical guide to contemporary portraiture by Hashim Akib. Award-winning artists Hashim Akib's striking portraits are at the heart of this inspirational book. Hash's easy-going, unpretentious style puts fantastic results within the reach of hobby artists and aspiring professionals alike. Assuming nothing and starting from the basics, making it suitable even for the enthusiastic beginner, this book includes six step-by-step projects to follow, along with friendly but in-depth advice on colour palettes, skin tone, composition, working from photographs and models, mark making, lighting; atmosphere and much more. The book covers many types of portraiture from the self-portrait to full-length portraits, all presented in Hash's striking, free and contemporary style. * Leisure Painter *Starting from the basics, award-winning artist Hashim Akib shows you how to paint portraits in acrylics with an engaging and easy-to-follow style. Covering all styles of portraiture, from self-portraits to full-length portraits, the book includes six step-by-step projects to follow. These provide in-depth advice on colour palettes, skin tones, composition and lighting as well as how to work from photographs and models, plus much more. The book is aimed at beginners, but there's plenty for the more proficient artist to enjoy here. * The Artist *Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials Starting out The Robot Ideas and planning A face that tells a story Age & Experience Light Colour Painting skin Full Length Portrait Painting self portraits Self portrait Going further Choosing a face Attitude and expression Young Girl Portrait in profile Index

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Book SynopsisBy following the lessons in Cartoon Animation with Preston Blair, you can make any character—person, animal, or object—come to life through animated movement! While animators must first know how to draw, the animation process involves much more than just good drawing skills. In this new edition, acclaimed cartoon animator Preston Blair shares his vast practical knowledge to explain and demonstrate the many techniques of cartoon animation. Learn the knowledge and skills animators must have, including: How to construct original cartoon characters by developing a character’s shape, personality, features, and mannerisms How to animate movements such as running, walking, dancing, posing, skipping, and more How to create realistic-looking mouth movements during dialogue, as well as body movements and facial expressions while the character is speaking The finer points of animating a character, including drawing key character poses and in-betweens Full of expert advice from animation pioneer Preston Blair, and packed with helpful drawings and diagrams, the new edition of Cartoon Animation with Preston Blair is a book no animation enthusiast should be without. THIS REVISED EDITION INCLUDES:Chapter 1: Getting Started Tools & Materials Drawing Basics Animation MethodsChapter 2: Cartoon Construction Parts of a Cartoon Character The Body The Head Facial Expressions The HandsChapter 3: Character Design & Development Cartoon Examples The Cute Character The Screwball Type The “Pugnacious” Character More Animal Characters Fictional People ChildrenChapter 4: Basic Character Movement Comics to Life Line of Action Rhythm & Design Basic MovementChapter 5: Animation Principles Beyond Simple Movements Rough Sketches Balance Paths of Action Animation EffectsChapter 6: Animated Acting Expressing an Attitude Three Rules for Actors Body Language DialogueThe Collector’s Series offers a broad range of projects across a variety of mediums and genres, such as drawing, oil, acrylic, watercolor, cartooning, calligraphy, and others. This series is suitable for beginning to intermediate artists, and each title features in-depth instruction about how to work with the tools of the trade, master techniques, and use newfound skills in practical application. Trade Review“Profusely illustrated throughout and comprehensively covering all of the fundamentals of cartoon animation…ideal and unreservedly recommended.” * Midwest Book Review *"This is the holy grail of all art books." * Sandbox World *"A treasure trove of samples and guidelines to inspire an artist at any level." * Comics Grinder *Table of ContentsFrom the Editors Introduction from Preston BlairChapter 1: Getting Started Tools & Materials Drawing Basics Animation MethodsChapter 2: Cartoon Construction Parts of a Cartoon Character The Body The Head Facial Expressions The HandsChapter 3: Character Design & Development Cartoon Examples The Cute Character The Screwball Type The “Pugnacious” Character More Animal Characters Fictional People ChildrenChapter 4: Basic Character Movement Comic to Life Line of Action Rhythm & Design Basic MovementChapter 5: Animation Principles Beyond Simple Movements Rough Sketches Balance Paths of Action Animation EffectsChapter 6: Animated Acting Expressing an Attitude Three Rules for Actors Body Language DialogueAbout Preston Blair

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Book SynopsisThe Flower School takes you by the hand and expertly guides you step-by-step through design principles and twenty-five floral projects to empower you to create your own gorgeous floral arrangements for your home, gatherings, celebrations and for pleasure.If you’ve ever been swept up admiring some garden blooms, or a flower stand at your local market, and wondered, just how do I transform these raw materials into floral displays that elicit a sense of wonder in their admirers, then allow award-winning floral designer Joseph Massie to show you how, as he shares his knowledge, recipes and personal tips for creating with flowers, with intention, thought and skill.Tumbling cascades of peonies and exquisitely arranged vases of unfurled garden roses are an everyday pleasure for Joseph. Whilst creating breathtaking marvels from armfuls of blooms is what Joseph does daily, his true passion is sharing his knowledge to encourage and inspire absolutely anyone who wants to work with flowers to be able to do so – and do it well. Let yourself be empowered by the learning process of skills, techniques and principles that will enable you to build a strong floral design foundation so as to be able to indulge in your own floral pleasures or flower-filled career.

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Book SynopsisNumber of players: 1-5Ages: 14+Playing Time: 30-50 minutesComponents: 6 Character cards, 9 Jungle cards, 56 Adventure cards, 2 Reference cards, 2 Playing pieces, 24 Health tokens, 24 Food tokens, 12 Ammo tokens, 2 Expedition leader tokensLegendary explorer Percy Fawcett marched deep into the Amazon in search of El Dorado. He was never seen again. Your team has gone in search of him, but now you hope to escape the jungle with the greatest treasure of all--your life.Make the best of your food, your ammunition and your health, as you plunge deep into the jungle. Choose your path carefully to ensure you''re ready for the pitfalls which may occur. Play solo or co-operatively to survive the expedition, or play in teams to see which group can escape the jungle first.From award-winning designer Peer Sylvester and acclaimed artist Garen Ewing, The Lost Expedition is a game of hard choices on the road to El Dorado.

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Book SynopsisThe abstract game of Qwirkle consists of 108 wooden blocks with six different shapes in six different colours. There is no board, players simply use an available flat surface. Players begin the game with six blocks. The start player places blocks of a single matching attribute (colour or shape but not both) on the table. Thereafter, a player adds blocks adjacent to at least one previously played block. The blocks must all be played in a line and match, without duplicates, either the colour or shape of the previous block. Players score one point for each block played plus all blocks adjacent. It is possible for a block to score in more than one direction. If a player completes a line containing all six shapes or colours, an additional six points are scored. The player then refills his hand to six blocks. The game ends when the draw bag is depleted and one player plays all of his remaining blocks, earning a six point bonus. The player with the high score wins.

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Book SynopsisThis colouring book, with its concisely written text and easy-to-colour-in medical illustrations, has been revised into a new user-friendly format.

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Book SynopsisA guide to harnessing the world of nature to create sustainable textile art. Textile artist Alice Fox shows how to work with found, foraged, gathered and grown materials to create fabulous textile pieces that are inspired by, and made from, nature. She encourages crafters to be open minded and experimental, using local (and sometimes) unconventional materials, working with the seasons and learning what materials are available at different times of year to ground artists in natural cycles and integrate creative activity with a strong sense of place and character. Alongside advice on growing your own plants (such as flax or nettles) for creative work, the book is packed with practical ideas for foraging – from weeds, dandelions and other plants useful for making cordage, or leaves that can be stitched, quilted and shaped into vessels, to grass, wool, plastics and mud that can be gathered and delightfully repurposed by the textile artist. Other ideas for found materials include stones, shells and wood that can be wrapped or woven into, as well as a multitude of urban treasures that find a new life in creative hands.Trade Review‘A masterclass in harnessing nature to create sustainable art’ Wildflower ‘A book with such depth of meaning – this is a mindful tome.’ Ailish Henderson Blog 'If you would like to take a more sustainable approach in your textile work, this beautiful book offers plenty of inspiration and advice’ The Quilter ‘Advice on how to work with foraged, gathered and grown materials to create fabulous textile art pieces. You’ll be amazed by the possibilities!’ Textile Artist

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Book SynopsisWith womenswear sizes ranging from 8 to 22, along with seven downloadable PDF pattern sheets, The Great British Sewing Bee: The Modern Wardrobe covers everything you need to build garments that are easy to make, wear and combine. Discover how one pattern could become three different looks through a series of simple alterations. The 28 projects in this book will help you gain confidence as you learn how to make clothes you love and cherish. The projects include: paper bag shorts, dance dress, Oxford Bag trousers, Breton two-piece, a-line dress and much more. Expand on crucial techniques and further your understanding in how to bring in more of your own personal style into the clothes you want to wear. Complete with stunning photography, clear illustrations and instructions, demystify the pattern process to create a variety of flattering garments for every occasion that suit your style and fit your figure. Starting with the essentials, learn how to personalise patterns with expert sewing tips on making alterations that will take you beyond this book as you build on your sewing skills.

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Book Synopsis10,000 questions in 500 brand new, up-to-date quizzesCovering topics from pop stars to death stars, choose your rounds from general knowledge, specialist subjects and pot luck with questions from teasers to terrors that will scramble even an egghead's brains.Designed to be played on your own or with family and friends, the man down the road and two halves of the crowd at your local. Each quiz provides good clean fun for all. The answers are quick and easy to find so that anyone can pick this up and become a top quiz master.

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Book SynopsisCreated by industry leader Vogue Knitting, this book offers 90+ pages of special colorwork paper that features stitch outlines rather than rectangles—so knitters can grasp what their finished project will actually look like. Knitters who enjoy creating their own colorwork patterns now have a fun, effective, and easier way to work! The innovative pages in Vogue Knitting: Knitter’s Colorwork Paper have outlines in the V shape of an actual knit stitch rather than the rectangles of ordinary knitting graph paper. This lets you create a better representation of what your finished item will actually look like. More than 90 pages of two common knitting gauges allow plenty of room for hundreds of patterns. Knitters can use the 5 stitches by 6 rows gauge for stranded colorwork and the 6 stitches by 8 rows gauge for intarsia motifs. They can also use this paper to test alternative color combinations of existing patterns. The book is as fun to use as it is practical, and will leave knitters wondering why this hasn’t been done before.

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