'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Monday 24 March 2014

Review: Bibliocraft

Subtitled A Modern Crafter's Guide to Using Library Resources to Jumpstart Creative Projects, this beautifully-designed book will have any creative salivating--from 12-year-olds to adults.

Penned by a rare book librarian for the New York Public Library, this exquisite collection of projects have not only been inspired by books and libraries, they've been cleverly aligned with delectable Library Speak that will have bookish types similarly salivating.

Part One: Finding Inspiration at the Library, talks of library collections--those found both at prestigious locations, and even those found at your local, suburban branch. There's also Planning Your Library Visit, Finding What You Want at the Library and how to search library catalogues effectively. The World of Digital Libraries is also covered. A list of Recommended Library Collections will have hearts apace.

In Part Two: Projects Inspired by the Library, a series of truly lovely projects by various designers unfold, with inspiration behind the project, creator bios, and full-diagram instructions. Projects vary from stitching and sewing through calligraphy, paper-cutting, printing, jewellery-making, quilling and more. Along with these projects, we are treated to biblical referencing and write-ups behind the inspiration.

Personal favourites include the Arts and Crafts Ex Libris bookplate set, the Quilled Willow Pendant, Antiquarian Animal Votive Holders and Cyanotope Bed Throw. The growth chart made from fabrics that mimic traditional soil profile illustrations is also a favourite--as is the accompanying write-up on soil profiles found in antiquated books.

If you're a booklover with itchy, crafting fingers--or just an obsession for all things library--this collection will warm your creative heart.

Title: Bibliocraft
Author: Jessica Pigza
Photographer: Johnny Miller
Publisher: Stewart, Tabori and Chang, $35 RRP
Publication Date: 18 March 2014
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781617690969
For ages: Adult
Type: Craft, Non-Fiction