Customer Reviews

Artist Trading Card Workshop: Create, Collect, Swap

5 star:		(82)
4 star:		(13)
3 star:		(5)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

If I'd had this book years ago, I could toss out all my other books on collage, altered books, decoupage, etc. This book describes in detail every technique you need to collage, decoupage, and decorate on paper or whatever medium you choose. It also discusses the various mediums and paints used and has excellent instructions for each card pictured. And, yes, the pictures are exquisite eye candy, as another viewer mentioned. They also inspire and get you motivated to make your own cards.

I have to add a warning, though: making these art cards is highly addictive and can make a total mess of your living space and lead to harder core projects, like decorated boxes and journals. In my little corner of the den at home I now have containers of paint, glue, paint brushes, cut-up magazines, 2 T.V. trays full of projects and assorted other sparkling ephemera. But I haven't had this much creative fun in years.

*****
I am a newcomer to collage and to artist trading cards (ATC's) and this book was simply wonderful. It explored over 32 different innovative techniques that can not only be used for ATC's but for any type of collage. The book includes a brief history of ATC's, storage, signatures, resources, and many, many examples of beautiful ATC's. What a tremendous guide!

Each step is illustrated in an easy-to-follow fashion, and followed up with creative finished examples. Highly recommended.
*****

here's a lavish new offering in the altered arts and mixed-media lexicon. Bernie's book is filled to bursting with the ATCs of over 60 accomplished artists in glorious, rich and true color. If that sort of eye-candy isn't enough for you, there are plenty of techniques for creating your own striking and original ATCs. Enticingly organized into 32 sections as varied as Leafing Pen Resist and Resin Fresco, each includes a brief explanation, What You Will Need and a clearly demonstrated photographic how-to. There are several examples for each technique included and an 8 page Gallery of additional cards. A history of ATCs, cool suggestions for storage and/or display, a resource list and comprehensive artist contact info round out the contents. North Light has published another appealing volume which does justice to both the author and her subject.

If you're wondering whether you should...you'll definitely want to buy this book. It's superb.

You'll be amazed by the imaginative use of simple household items to create stunning pieces of art.

The instructions are clear and concise (with pictures...I love pictures). You'll probably find yourself completing several ATC's within an hour or so (if you don't first stop to enjoy all this book has to offer).

The gallery of cards is outstanding and sure to inspire. Each technique has its own mini-showcase with samples from several artists. You not only get technical ideas but creative styling ideas from a large selection of artists.

I also love the fact that they've provided a list of online groups where we can swap the cards made. And mostly I love that these techniques can be easily adapted to larger or smaller size artwork.

Really, you'll want to get this book.

I'll support anything with Bernie's name on it solely out of the love that she pours into taking care of her animals that she rescues from shelters and other various locations giving them a second chance. She's got a huge heart and an even bigger knowledge of creating art!!
The book is extremely well written (LOTS of detailed techniques and inspirational projects). There is something in here for everyone-beginner to advanced-to gain from.
The photos are beautifully shot-the color and detail are crisp and clean. I bought it for the artwork (yum!), but after reading it last night, the techniques also stand up well on their own! LOTS of information is packed into this book.
Even if you don't make ATC's, there is something in here for you. The information can be used for various art projects everything from canvas to altered books to journaling to boxes and more!
Thanks Bernie for finding the time to create this wonderful treasure.

EXPERIENCE LEVEL: Novice to Expert

I took an ATC workshop last year and got a few ideas and made a few cards, but this book takes the cake. The techniques require items usually found in most households (magazine pictures, baby wipes and paper towels for example) to create vast numbers of cards. The examples are many and varied, so you can easily choose a few to try and come back later and tackle other techniques. The book includes examples of simple ATCs, digitally created cards, diptych and triptych cards. The book also includes the history of ATCs, cards from professionals as well as children, so don't feel intimidated. If you can't find an ATC workshop taking place near you, this book is the next best thing. If you can find a workshop, it's great review because a good workshop doesn't come close to the wealth of information contained within these pages.

WOW!!! Bernie you certainly out did yourself on this one! This book is loaded with techniques that anyone can do and most of the products used are right there in your home. Don't limit yourself to just ATC's for these techniques. Use them in your altered books, collage and card making.

Lori Roberts Member of Altered Arts Magazine Design Team

Inspired artists offer a wonderful selection of ATCs. Each chapter offers several great ideas and more importantly, shows techniques. While some of the techniques might seem elementary to some artists - the "how-to" is very helpful to beginners. Don't worry, there are plenty of great ideas for advanced ATC artists as well and some nice variations of ideas. I thought that the general style was very similar throughout (not a huge variety) - very "collage styled." Wonderful examples of common object uses - not everything has to be "fine art" materials. This book proves that there is a place for artists and folk artists to rise above the term "crafter." Great resource page for materials and ATC groups.

I purchased this book because I am new to ATCs and wanted some inspiration. Well, this book has certainly done that. This book is full of wonderful step-by-step instructions and so many beautiful examples. Not only does it cover how to create these little pieces of art but also how to store them and swap them. I am definitely inspired to get started. I recommend this book to anyone who wants jump in to this relatively new artform.

I have been make ATC's for a few years now and was feeling a bit lost for ideas. Luckily I happened upon this book: besides being inspired,I was also greatly entertained by the many beautiful(& yes,at times,very unusual) cards shown. The cards themselves are well photographed and the ideas presented are for the most part,fairly easily achieved(although some are for the more experienced in dealing with heat guns,embossing powder,etc.) So I suggest doing the easier techniques first. I received this book as a gift,but probably would've bought it eventually. Anyway,I'm glad I have it..!