"A beautiful and worthwhile book." - Next Book Please This innovative approach to bookbinding demonstrates an array of creative techniques that elevate handmade books into extraordinary works of art. Easy-to-follow, well-illustrated directions for more than 25 patterns explain how to make seven different kinds of books with pop-up panels and pages that "explode" from the spine as well as slipcases, tassels, and other distinctive features. The guide begins with instructions for a simple accordion-fold book. Successive projects build on methods readers have already mastered and introduce new skills, including the pamphlet stitch, ideal for photo albums and scrapbooks; tacket binding, the versatile stitch of medieval Europe; and the Coptic stitch, employed by Christians of ancient Egypt. A full-colour photo gallery, with contributions from more than 60 artists, offers further inspiration for enhancing and personalizing projects by using alphabets, bestiaries, botanical illustrations, and other designs. The author includes a glossary of terms as well as information on materials and tools. "Well-written, imaginative - and just plain fun to read.

I learned a lot about ways to make books that I never dreamed of. Ms. Laplantz is a creative genius." - Bassocantor Reviews "This is a gorgeous book filled with beautiful projects." - The Sheepish Reader 'n' Writer AUTHOR: The work of internationally recognized artist and author Shereen LaPlantz has appeared in countless gallery exhibitions and museums throughout the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Europe, and Africa. Her basketry and artists' books are featured in numerous permanent collections, including the National Museum of Women in the Arts.