Creativity

An inside look at kokeshi dolls: from the skilled woodworkers behind their design to their important cultural significance. Kokeshi are the simple and charming traditional Japanese dolls characterized by their cylindrical shape and lack of arms and legs. Historically made as children's toys in Japan's northern region of Tohoku, they have now become a popular collector's item and have even inspired famous architects and artists. In this visual guide, readers will find: An overview of the different types of dollsHow kokeshi dolls are crafted, including information on tools and woods usedInterviews with leading kokeshi craftspeople worldwideDetailed information about both traditional dolls and the modern ones being crafted todayAn exploration of the cultural significance of kokeshi dolls--both historically and for the areas of northern Japan that rebuilt themselves after their region was decimated by an earthquake and tsunami in 2011A guide to visiting Japan's kokeshi regionsInformation on how to buy the dolls--either directly from Japanese artisans or stockists worldwideFilled with artist interviews, gorgeous photos and firsthand travel experience, author Manami Okazaki has created a book to be enjoyed by all--from serious collectors to woodcrafters, interior designers, architects, armchair travelers and anyone with an interest in Japanese culture and travel.

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

Create dozens of beautiful paper wildflowers that look just like the real thing! In this book, paper artist Emiko Yamamoto presents her secrets for making realistic blossoms, leaves and stems from inexpensive colored paper sheets. Her flexible cut, curl and paste method makes it easy to create an amazing variety of different flowers and to tailor your creations to specific settings, occasions and color palettes.

With Instagram star illustrator Yoai as your guide, Chibi Art Class will teach you how to create and color your very own super-cute chibi characters!

Ice castles, wintry forests, and more just waiting for your creative colouring.

A beautifully illustrated colouring journey that celebrates the mystery and power of Tarot.

Calling all horror fans! Step into the beautiful, macabre world of Francois Gautier.

The renowned jewelry crafter teaches readers how to make beautiful creations using the traditional Japanese braiding technique of Kumihimo. Kumihimo is the centuries-old Japanese artform of creating elegant braids using intricate and beautiful patterns and designs. These braids are then fashioned into all kinds of objects, such as bracelets, necklaces and more. This illustrated guide features step-by-step diagrams and photographs to help you create your own Kumihimo jewelry projects at home. Written by expert jewelry crafter Dorothy Wood, The Beginner's Guide to Kumihimo covers a range of techniques including flat braids, square braids, honeycomb braids, hollow braids, spiral braids, and braiding with beads. Readers will learn to use different cords and wire, as well as finishing techniques. This volume also features templates to make your own Kumihimo disk and plate, plus a handful of contemporary projects for jewelry and accessories so you can put your newfound braiding skills to use right away.

Get great techniques, tips, and ideas from the Urban Sketching Handbook series in one place! With this thorough guide, discover how to sketch architecture and cityscapes, plus people and motion; learn drawing perspective; and see how easy it is to add color to artwork.

Mini Chibi Art Class makes these miniature Japanese manga and anime characters even smaller and cuter in this miniature, portable format.

Create animal slippers for the family with this cute collection of patterns. First choose your slipper type - slide, shoe or boot - then your size, and finally choose one of 20 different animal heads to attach. Ira Rott is known for her easy-to-follow patterns, which include step-by-step photos and crochet charts alongside the written patterns.

Throwing away damaged, yet beloved, clothes can sometimes be one of the saddest things, but what if you were able to fix those holes and extend their life? With Mend & Patch, you can learn to take care of your clothes, mending, patching and repairing so you can cherish all your garments.

This book is the perfect companion for the watercolour landscape painter. Packed full of detailed annotations and step-by-step demonstrations, Richard Taylor guides you through each element of landscape painting.

Planters, Vases, Dishes and More, Without a Pottery Studio!

Big facial expressions are essential to anime and manga. They can be much more eloquent than printed words for getting an emotional response out of viewers. However, faces can be challenging. With this book, improve your anime-drawing skills with instruction for facial features and expressions for a wide variety of ages, character types, hair styles and activities. With 800 different facial expressions, you'll be able to draw your character in any emotional situation or with any reaction.

A super-stylish new handbook from Merchant & Mills containing all the answers to sewing's most frequently asked questions. Providing an overview on the art of sewing, this handy volume is packed with information on the tools and materials you will need, seasoned with homegrown tips on essential good practice.

Overlockers do so much more than just join seams and neaten edges. With this practical book by your side, you will learn to make full use of your machine so that your sewing projects become easier and quicker to make. With helpful tips and troubleshooting advice throughout, it shows you how to make full use of your machine and how to enjoy the overlockingprocess. Topics covered include the different stitches an overlocker can produce, how to achieve them and when to use them. Useful techniques for making garments through simple steps are demonstrated along with photographs to illustrate the processes. Practical advice on equipment and accessories is given, along with troubleshooting tips for when things do not go to plan. There are quick reference charts and creative ideas for decorative finishes.

Showcasing one of Adebanji Alade's inspirational sketchbooks in its entirety, and with a fascinating introduction to the way he works, this unique visual record of everyday city life also offers a compelling insight into the creative process of a modern urban sketcher.

A beginner's step-by-step guide to creating beautiful silver jewellery.

If you're looking for a beautiful and faithful companion then these gorgeous crocheted dogs are sure to be everyone's best friend.

Stone setting can often appear mysterious and impossible: an ancient craft used to hold beautiful gems secure in the most elegant of designs. This practical book explains the techniques of the master stone setter in an accessible and encouraging style. Written by Scott McIntyre, it explains the complex world of setting with step-by-step instructions, supported by informative illustrations and excellent examples of finished pieces. It is a manual that shines with inspiration and practical advice. Topics covered include: setting techniques, from bezel, claw and flush, through to single row and multiple pave, then to skilled methods such as channel and microclaw. Advice is given on the options and attributes of each type of setting , as well as ideas for mixing styles and experimenting with setting methods. It is written informally throughout with an emphasis on patience and precision.

What is inside a Tech Pack and how should I explain my designs?Sewing Seams for Tech Packs is a reference book that focuses on the technical aspects of fashion design.This tool will allow you to not only understand how garments are made, but also how to enrich your skills as a designer.The 27 garment pieces that are developed within this book, are the basis to explain almost any design. We show you in detail how each garment is done, and how to explain it clearly to a factory.By referring to this book when making your tech packs you will save time and avoid misunderstandings.Design like a proChoose the most appropriate seams for any project, and master the technical issues that are involved in developing garments.