A delightful, inspiring book. Teena Flanner's directions are easy to follow - and most of the required materials are easily obtained. The charming antique molds may be harder to find but modern recreations of vintage styles can be found on the 'Net. I wish however a recipe(s) was given for making paper mache pulp from scratch -- we don't have craft stores in our area. Again, sources for that have been found on the 'Net.
I was very disappointed to find out that all the projects are made from molds. I was looking for hand sculpted items, not ones that I have to purchase a mold or create a mold. This should have been stated in the write-up.
I received my book in the mail today and couldn't put it down until I read completely through it. The pictures are wonderful. Directions are clear and well written. Teena thoughtfully included lots of artist's notes and tips that only an expert would know. I love this book and have no doubt that I can duplicate the results or at least come close. I highly recommend this as an excellent how-to book on papier mache.
If you are creative and resourceful, this book is a guide AND an inspiration. There are a handful of projects that don't call for a mold, including her ever-popular snowmen. The rest? Sure, you need molds, but I saw three last weekend while antiquing and one was only $6 (and it was a lamb, too!). They don't have to be old, just a mold you like! Really, NOT HARD TO FIND.
This book gave me insight into the process and acted as a jumping point for my own projects. I had many lightbulb moments while reading this " ... Ah ha! THAT'S how you do THAT!", etc. I've got a project baking in the oven as I type and I'm so glad I checked this book out of the library. I'll probably buy it now!
As lovely to look at as learn from, Teena Flanner's unique artistry is revealed in page after gorgeous page. Throughout, the author's warmth and passion for her craft inspires even beginners to go for the magic. As Flanner writes, "perfection is not my goal," it's all about loving the process. With this beautiful and informative guidebook in hand, budding papier-mache artists are off to an excellent start.
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