Books published by The Crowood Press Ltd

During the Industrial Revolution, Britain was at the forefront of bridge innovation. Pioneering designers such as George and Robert Stephenson, Thomas Telford and Isambard Kingdom Brunel created Britain''s rich bridge heritage that features many world firsts and we can learn much from their ground-breaking designs. Written by an experienced bridge architect, this book includes an introduction to bridge aesthetics; it gives an outline of British bridge development and advice on parapet treatment and bridge lighting. This book offers a comprehensive overview of how the best of British bridges marry aesthetic considerations with engineering ingenuity.

The Arts and Crafts Movement produced some of the country''s most popular, loved and recognizable buildings. This book guides the general reader through its history from the mid-nineteenth century to the early twentieth. Of equal interest to those with a more informed interest, it will open your eyes to the richness and beauty of one of the most important artistic movements the British Isles ever produced. This beautifully illustrated book includes a comprehensive thematic introduction; an up-to-date history of Arts and Crafts architecture, the key individual and the characteristics of the buildings. In-depth case-studies of all the major buildings are given, as well as those overlooked by the current literature. There is a useful accompanying guide to places to visit and, finally, a list of stunning Arts and Crafts buildings you can stay in.

Modelling and Painting WWII US Figures and Vehicles covers the modelling and painting of US armed forces in the Pacific, on D-Day and during the liberation of Europe in 1/35, 1/56, 1/72 and 1/76 scales. Historical overviews set the scene, followed by detailed step-by-step modelling and painting guides for the creation of accurate and realistic models, whether for display or wargaming. With over 250 colour photographs, this book includes the following models for personnel: infantryman, paratrooper, Ranger, Marine, airmen, combat engineers, tank crew and General George S. Patton. It also includes models for small arms and artillery and for the following vehicles: tanks, half-tracks, tank destroyers, jeeps, armoured cars and many more.

Land Rover One Ten and Ninety Specification Guide is designed to give guidance on the original, ex-factory, specifications of the coil-sprung utility Land Rovers built between 1983 and 1990. Known to Land Rover as stage 2 models, they were sold as the Land Rover One Ten, Ninety and (later) One Two Seven.  James Taylor has taken the first step in undertaking detailed research into the Stage 2 models, and putting together all the known facts in one place. Topics covered include vehicle identification; specification changes in detail; options, accessories and special equipment; conversions and, finally, promotional material.

Artists seem compelled to try to capture the amazing variety of the animal kingdom; the challenge remains how to breathe energy into your paintings and make the animals jump off the paper. This deeply practical book offers an accessible introduction to sketching animals from life, to try to capture that essence. It gives instruction on how to approach drawing; covers ideas for materials and supplies to make sketching from life a joy; gives step-by-step demonstrations of different watercolour techniques; offers specific advice on using colour and painting, fur, feathers and features and gives ideas for mixed-media experimentation. Full of colourful examples and guidance, this new book explains how to transform your studies into finished artwork that are brimming with character. It encourages you to find the extraordinary in the everyday, as well as revelling in the breadth of nature. Taking a contemporary approach to traditional watercolour, the author shows how a few, well-chosen brushes of paint can reveal the soul of your subject.

Stage combat is a constantly evolving craft, responsive to the growing demands of an ever changing industry and an ever more perceptive audience. Experienced fight director, teacher and examiner Philip d''Orleans shows how to respond to this challenge through innovative techniques. Unarmed Stage Combat explores the fundamental performance principles of violence on stage, before a dedicated series of chapters focus on over forty specific unarmed combat techniques, including non-contact slaps, punches, kicks and chokes as well as controlled contact and the illusion of falling. Each technique is beautifully illustrated with step-by-step photos and detailed practical guidance through the preparation, action and reaction to the movement, as well as the key safety principles, common pitfalls and staging variables. Supported by stunning fight photos from professional productions, this indispensable handbook is equally as valuable for beginners at the start of their career or preparing for their fight performance exam as it will be for seasoned professionals seeking to refresh their knowledge.

Figures can bring an embroidery to life, but they are tricky to do well. This book guides you through the materials, stitches, body parts and clothes to give you the confidence and skills to embroider a figure and experiment, using your creative inspiration. With over 400 colour photographs it gives key information for getting started, creating designs and preparing embroideries; techniques for making three-dimensional forms using stitching and padding techniques; clear instruction for mastering stitches and then ideas for using them creatively. Specific advice is given for embroidering the face, hair, hands and feet as well as ideas for using stitching embellishments, such as beads, sequins, buttons, ribbons, feathers and jewellery charms. Step-by-step projects demonstrate a range of beautiful styles and techniques.

One of the best saloon cars to come out of Britain in the 1960s and the winner of the first-ever European Car of the Year award – the Rover P6 combined a wealth of technical innovation with a distinctive appearance that incorporated exactly the right degree of Italianate sharp-suited appearance for its time. It was, and remains, a great car to drive, and all these qualities were combined with the space and practicality of a four-seat family saloon. Rover P6: 2000, 2200, 3500: The Complete Story documents its evolution from the earliest ideas in the 1950s to the end of production in 1977 and describes all the models with specification tables and paint and trim options, including NADA and Federal cars. It remembers the motorsport successes and failures and records the manufacturing process at Solihull and CKD overseas. It includes a useful chapter on buying and owning a Rover P6 and presents purchase prices, chassis, engine and gearbox number sequences, together with factory registration and production numbers.

This is the first Tolkien biography since Humphrey Carpenter's authorized life of 1977 to deal with the wealth of posthumously published material; it sets Tolkien's imaginative writing firmly in the context of his academic life and shows the great personal and professional difficulties he overcame to complete The Lord of the Rings.

Of all the architectural delights of British seaside resorts, the most astonishing and idiosyncratic is the seaside pier. Remarkable visual spectacles, piers are architecturally extraordinary in concept and at times outrageous in execution. They brought together the Victorian genius for technological and material innovation, architectural ambition and engineering ingenuity in the search for new designs for leisure (as well as profit) over the sea. This superbly illustrated book explores the history of the design processes leading to the architectural and engineering innovations that have allowed people to walk on water in such diverse and delightful ways. Coverage includes the development of piers into the crowning architectural glory of British seaside resorts; the key people, materials, inventions and technologies in the field, particularly the work of Eugenius Birch, the greatest pier designer; the remarkable diversity of piers ranging from the earliest simple landing stages, through staid promenade piers and the glories of fully-fledged pleasure piers, to the boisterous joys of funfair and amusement piers; the rich variety of architectural styles, including exotic ''Orientalism'' and streamlined Modernism and, finally, today''s contemporary prospects for renewal and reinvention.

Railway buildings have always had a fascinating character all of their own, despite many no longer being in operational railway service. This book tells the story of how these buildings evolved alongside the development of the railway in Great Britain and examines how architects over the years have responded to the operational, social and cultural influences that define their work. Written for those with a keen interest in architecture and the railway, as well as those new to the subject, The Architecture and Legacy of British Railway Buildings provides an unique insight into the production of railway architecture, both in the context of railway management and the significant periods of ownership, and the swings in national mood for railway-based transportation. As well as tracing its history, the authors take time to consider the legacy these buildings have left behind and the impact of heritage on a continually forward-looking industry.Topics covered include: the context of railway architecture today; the history of how it came into existence; the evolution of different railway building types; the unique aspects of railway building design, and finally, the key railway development periods and their architectural influences.

The Dennis company has been building vehicles since 1895, making it the oldest continuously producing British manufacturer. From its origins in a small Guildford shop, the company has grown to become a major bus manufacturer with its products selling around the world. With over 240 photographs, Dennis Buses and Other Vehicles discusses the company's highs and lows, through two world wars, challenging markets and ownership changes. It documents the vehicles produced and their innovative design features, from early cars and street-cleaning machines to vans, buses, trucks, fire engines and ambulances. It gives first-hand descriptions of how, and why, some of the company's most successful products such as the Dart, Trident and Enviro buses evolved. It explains why their once market-leading fire engines are no longer made and analyses the reasons why some products were less successful and explores what happened to parts of the company that were sold over the years. Finally, it considers the company's future opportunities and challenges.

For the first time of its invention, photography has been used to visualize events that are either too fast or too slow for the eye to perceive, or subjects that are outside the spectral range of the human eye. This book shows how you can photograph a range of subjects and see the world as never before. Written with clear and accessible text, it explores and suggests techniques that expose new images in new ways, and pushes the boundaries of the photographer''s creative potential. Techniques include: ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) photography; high speed and time-lapse photography; close-up, macro and photography with the aid of a microscope and finally, photography using polarized light. Most of the techniques are accessible to all photographers using readily available equipment (UV and IR will require some specialist items), and have been relatively unexplored so give the adventurous photographer great potential to experiment and produce unique images.

Authentic historical costume is essential for any performance, to instantly communicate a period, a social standing, an occupation or an identity. The responsibility of this representation lies with the costume maker, in their knowledge of the design and their accuracy of construction. The Costume Maker's Companion serves as an aide memoire, to novice and experienced makers alike, covering the common garments of the Medieval, Tudor, Jacobean, Restoration, Regency and Victorian eras of British history. Learn the key styles and fashions of each period before step-by-step tutorials and detailed orders of work illustrate the costume construction process for eight popular garments, from the designer's drawing through to the finished piece. This book also covers working with a costume designer; key processes and equipment; flat pattern manipulations; cutting a pattern on the stand; taking a pattern from an existing garment; costume details, including goldwork and flounces and finally, making accessories, including gauntlets, corsets and ruffs. Logically divided by historical period and supported by over 400 photographs, sketches and diagrams, this book will develop the confidence of any costume maker to take on new projects and expand their knowledge.

Masters scullers range in age from Grade AA (21 in the US) or Grade A (27 in the UK) to Grade M (89 plus). Although diverse in age, these athletes all have one thing in common - they are each unique. This book partners with each individual athlete to achieve performance improvements based on their own aspirations, technical skill and fitness level. The focus is on understanding and efficiency, both in the acquisition of skills and training. The dynamic technique described offers scullers a high-performance sculling approach, carefully tailored to support a Masters sculler's long-term career. Illustrated with superb colour photographs, diagrams and a wealth of examples, coverage includes individual assessment of an athlete's sculling skills, flexibility and aerobic fitness; compilation and application of evidence-based data; formation of highly individual training programmes; experiments for athletes to explore their connectedness, versatility and speed, and finally, race strategies and plans for competitive athletes. Based on the athlete's needs and aspirations, Masters Sculling provides you with the knowledge and skills to build an individual training plan that minimizes injury risk, achieves continuous improvement and fosters a lifelong enjoyment of the sport.

Heat pumps can heat a building by 'pumping' heat from either the ground or the air outside: an intriguing process which utilizes principles that are somewhat analogous to those employed in the domestic refrigerator. This title presents the necessary knowledge to take advantage of this potentially low-carbon technology to heat their properties.

The age-old practice of food fermentation is enjoying a well-earned renaissance. As knowledge around the importance of our gut microbiota has grown, so too has the evidence that fermented foods can help support a healthy gastrointestinal tract, boost the immune system and even improve mood. This is due to both the probiotic microbes they contain, and the enhanced nutritional value of fermented foods themselves. In this comprehensive guide, fermentation specialist Caroline Gilmartin delves into the processes and mechanisms involved in both wild and cultured fermentation, examining the microbes involved, parameters for optimal fermentation and what happens if you alter them. Topics covered include the importance of the microbiota; gut health; milk and water kefir; yoghurt; kombucha; vegetable fermentations; appetizing recipes; suggested flavour combinations and finally, safety measures and troubleshooting.

Screenprinting is essentially a stencil method of printing, but is has vast potential. This beautiful book explains the techniques behind the art and introduces ideas to explore its exciting and versatile qualities. Packed with step-by-step sequences and practical advice, it not only explains the process but inspires designers and makers to experiment with the creative potential of this striking art form. It introduces the basic technical aspects of printing on fabric, as well as the equipment and materials. Ideas for designing and developing different types of motifs, images, patterns and repeats are given and how to combine the different elements together. It covers effective low-tech methods that exploit physical skills and simple tools, as well as contemporary printed textile practice with digital input and sophisticated technologies. Advice on the use of colour is given as well as dye recipes and the instructions for their use on fabric. Methods are included such as cross dyeing, crimping and mark making on fabric, which can be used in conjunction with screenprinting. Drawing on the author's over forty years of experience, it shares her practical tips and ideas for both the traditional processes of screenprinting and the latest techniques that embrace contemporary practice ready for a new textile audience.

Our built environments can affect us in many subtle ways. Simply sensing fresh air and natural light or seeing greenery and open space can uplift our mood and improve our wellbeing. But these healthy environments are increasingly difficult to achieve in practice. The vital collaboration between the many people involved in designing and producing buildings is often not achieved. Then there is the pressing need to reduce waste and pollution. Managing these demands is a challenge, especially in a traditional climate of short-term thinking. Designing Buildings for People explores how we can learn from buildings of the past, vernacular architecture and the natural world around us, while still harnessing the opportunities presented by technology, to think creatively, work collaboratively and exercise a transdisciplinary approach. The book features over 200 images, exhibiting the acclaimed work of internationally recognized and research-led designers from the fields of architecture, engineering and management. It is a prime reference work for professionals and students who want to build the sustainable buildings of the future.

Using sharp tools is one of life's great joys. A sharp tool feels right; the job seems that much easier; and the quality of the cut usually means there is less work to do to produce a finished surface on the object. This book provides an understanding of what is involved in sharpening common workshop tools. With over 580 colour photographs and illustrations it covers sharpening techniques for the most commonly used tools - scissors, shears, knives, lathe tools and drills, screwdrivers, chisels and punches, along with the more specialist gravers and scrapers. Advice on types of abrasives, grades, grits and mesh sizes is given. It describes what happens during the sharpening process and provides practical guidance on using sharpening stones and grinding wheels on a bench grinder. Provides essential maintenance instructions such as how to restore the surface of a flat stone and the face of the wheel on a bench grinder. Finally, it gives advice on bench grinders, and includes examples of the use of readily available tools and accessories such as vee blocks, toolposts, collet holders, protractors and gauges.

Embroidering with a sewing machine is exciting, immediate and affordable; this practical book shows you how to do it. Packed with encouraging advice, it introduces the sewing machine before explaining how to design, plan and make your own embroideries and turn them into finished items to treasure. Topics covered include: learning how to set up the machine and carry out basic cleaning and maintenance; discovering which thread types, fabrics and mixed media elements are most suitable for machine embroideries; exploring how to use the pressure foot to turn functional utility stitches into exciting surface decoration; working freely with dropped feeder teeth and an embroidery foot, and learning how to alter the tension to create different effects and finally, using soluble film to enhance your pictures, and stitch realistic thread paintings of landscape, animal and bird embroideries. With over 900 colour photographs and illustrations, it is the perfect companion for both those new to machine embroidery and those looking for new ideas and inspiration.

Back to Work provides a foundational plan for returning a horse to work after an injury or extended time-off. Some of the industry's top veterinarians explain several of equestrian sport's more common surgeries, injuries, and illnesses and then provide a practical guide to the basic steps one should take when bringing a horse back to work.