Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Complete Guide To Mosaic Techniques
Bonnie Fitzgerald

Search Press
14 February 2015 / ISBN 9781782211853
How-To Books/Craft

Reviewed by Rachel A Hyde

 

Do you want to make your own mosaics? Here is a book that tells you how to make something impressive. Divided into sections you can find out about the different materials available, what tools you need to buy, how to design your project and how to put it all together. Finally there are ten projects to make to set you on your way to becoming proficient.

There is a lot in here, from a potted history of mosaics to experimental modern methods, providing inspiration to learn the jargon. To a total beginner it is all a bit daunting, and if you are just looking to get some practical skills under your belt, a book that starts with making a simple project might be better. I would recommend this book if you are familiar with mosaics and becoming moer proficient is what you are after; this is more like an encyclopedia of everything an intermediate mosaicist needs to know. This is not a bad thing, and I was impressed by the exhaustive range of facts available, things I had not found in other books. There are lists of instructions detailing what to buy, safety tips, how to lay out a studio (if you have one), how to look around you for inspiration, professional works to admire, preparing and installing your work and much more. I think my favorite part was the project section, where a number of different methods are shown in relatively simple projects. Decorate a 3D lizard or dog sculpture, make a bathroom splashback, cover a table and make a number for your house. At the back is a list of resources covering more than the usual countries and a handy index. This is a great book for anybody who knows the basics and wants to make something to be proud of.

If you cannot find a good range of mosaic materials locally try www.searchpress.com for a list of suppliers.

UK Reviewer: Rachel Hyde's work can be found in Sewing World, Sew Hip, Popular Crafts and other magazines. Her craft blog is Green Thoughts
Reviewed 2015
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