The Art of Enameling: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration [Paperback]

Linda Darty (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 28, 2006

With this lavish introduction to the centuries-old art of enameling, even beginners can effortlessly create imaginative designs. Written with clarity and passion by a leader in the field, it covers all the popular techniques, the fundamentals of setting up a studio, and 14 fabulous projects. The various styles range from traditional cloisonné, champlevé, and plique-à-jour to experimental techniques such as firing enamel onto mesh forms. Even more creative possibilities await in the firing: use copper oxide to create cool color variations or try raku firing for unique effects. All the well-photographed projects, from a vibrantly toned flower ring to an elegant set of buttons with a delicate leaf pattern, encourage novices to use their skills and imagination.

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Just mention the Penland School of Crafts in any author's biography--and the quality is sure to be outstanding. North Carolina professor Darty pleases the eye, if only through the vast gallery of enamel art. The real issue--and one faced by previous authors--is how to best explain very complicated techniques. That is not her forte, quite frankly; the how-tos feature photographs that are too small and layouts that are way too crowded. But the visuals far outweigh the detriments, as do the dozen projects, ranging from stencil and sgraffito-gifted earrings to a fold-formed vessel; each features techniques, safety rules, what you need, and what you do. A great coffee-table wish book. Appended is the Brown & Sharpe (B&S) gauge for sheet metal, a select bibliography, and contributing artists. Barbara Jacobs
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

For over ten years, Linda Darty has been a leader in the field of contemporary enameling. Her own enamel/metal work has been included in highly regarded publications such as American Craft and Metalsmith around the world.

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Lark Crafts; New edition edition (August 28, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 157990954X
• ISBN-13: 978-1579909543
• Product Dimensions: 10 x 8.6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (46 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #22,467 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

73 of 74 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely Amazing!, December 4, 2004

By 

D Smyth (LA, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Art of Enameling: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration (Hardcover)

I just got a copy of this book, and am overwhelmed by how amazing it is. Starting with clear detailed explanations of all the fundamentals (including working with enamel colors and setting finished enamels), the book then presents an extensive discussions of a wide variety of enameling techniques, and finishes with 12 challenging projects. But just as importantly, the book is absolutely filled with beautiful color photos of contemporary enamel works by a wide range of artists.
For anyone interested in enameling, this is an ESSENTIAL addition to their library!

45 of 45 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Best Enameling Book Ever, April 3, 2005

By 

Sharon Kaplan (Los Angeles, CA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Art of Enameling: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration (Hardcover)

This beautiful book is the most comprehensive enameling book yet. A novice could follow the teachings in this book and end up knowing more than enamelists with experience. The Hot Tips and Historical portions are fabulous. I have not referred to any of my other enameling books since I got my hands on this masterpiece. Thank you Linda Darty!

47 of 49 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Outstanding Enameling Book!, March 28, 2006

By 

Beth Bannor - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Art of Enameling: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration (Hardcover)

I have three or four other enameling books. This book is the best by far. The things that make it great are the wonderful tips, clear descriptions, sharp photos and interesting projects. Everyone I show this book to goes out and buys a copy for themselves.