Customer Reviews

The Altered Book Scrapbook

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

what a pleasure to see more than just a few pages from what we know are entire volumes. One advantage of that for scrapbookers looking for inspiration is it allows us to see repeating motifs from page to page of each scrapbook or journal shown, though the subjects and themes of the pages change throughout each of those books. Cutting edge "art journal" style pages are in abundance, with some more traditional takes as well, displaying a plethora of techniques and plenty of tips, too.
Included in this nice hard bound volume is the work of some prolific scrapbook/journalers including Lisa Hoffman, Karenann Young, Lisa Cook and Nicole Landy. Most of the photos and details are printed BIG so we can really check out what's goin' on.

After eagerly awaiting publication of this book, I didn't end up buying it after all. The sample pages had a garish, repetitive, slapped-together look to my eye. Scrapbooking technique books and magazines like this one emphasize page design and novelty so heavily that the photos and ephemera within it almost get lost, making it too self-consciously about the craft rather than the content.

I confess that my own interest is more towards altered books than scrapbooking, and the scrapbooking titles I do enjoy are more towards the sensibility in Scrap City: Scrapbooking for Urban Divas and Small Town Rebels. Mainly, though, the samples and techniques have to appeal to my eye, and those in "The Altered Book Scrapbook" didn't, unfortunately.

I bought this hoping for a little guidance in a project I'm trying to start. I have read Altered Book Collage, Altered Books, Collaborative Journals, and Other Adventures in Bookmaking and of course Altered Books Workshop: 18 Creative Techniques for Self-Expression. While those books do a pretty good job with showing lots of examples and techniques, the focus a lot more on the altered book as an art piece, in and of itself, rather than something that can be used to tell a story through art. The Altered Book Scrapbook gives good instruction for recreating the pictured books, but very little advice on organization and that's what I was looking for.

All the books about altered book that I have seen overlook this. "Just dive in!" they urge. "If you don't like the results, tear out that page and start over!" My approach to creation is just not that organic and loose. I want a plan, I prefer an outline, I need organization, and if you're like me, this book won't help you, either. On the other hand, it will show you clearly how to make your own versions of the pictured books, with lists of materials needed and instructions.

I recently purchased a few beautiful vintage books at the thrift store.
I knew they could be altered into even further works of art; but really didn't know where to start? So I purchased this book Altered Book Scrapbook and it is awesome! I love it! Great ideas, and is giving me the courage to just jump in and start altering books! I'm so glad I bought it! It's staying in my craft room for a reference book to go back to when I need a little inspiration!

I needed a book to get the wheels turning to make an altered nature book. I had ideas, but to see them in a book helped to round out what I had been thinking of.

The book is simple for "first timers", like myself. Curled up with a cup of coffee and reading it brought on all kinds of creative brain storms.

It's fun to read too, which helps so much.

I am new to altering books so this book was interesting and helpful to me. I like how different artists' works are used to illustrate ideas, styles and techniques, which can be used for art journaling too. The instructions are simple and clear. I like the tips (especially those on extending the longevity of your creations) and list of materials needed for the projects.

Those looking for detailed directions and advice on layout and design may be disappointed. The book encourages you to "express your unique style".

I love the pages and demistrations in this book. It has really helped me create