Customer Reviews

Making Mosaics: Designs, Techniques & Projects

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

So far, every mosaic book I have collected has something to offer. This one has a few notable characteristics. The section on tools and equipment is more complete and detailed than other mosaic books I have seen. Beginning mosaic books usually suggest some kind of spatula, a tile nipper, and glass cutter. Quite a few other tools are suggested and described here, as well as what they are for. Although I feel daunted about buying and using so many different tools, it is helpful to know what I can look for if a particular project requires something different.

The projects are fairly simple, but unique. For example, there is a lamp base covered with broken plates and cups, including the cup handles which protrude from the lamp! There is an irregular-shaped plaque, formed by pouring concrete into a polystyrene foam that you design, and then covered with an ancient Roman-simulated design. There is a mirror frame which is jig-sawed into an interesting shape, and this project alone is for me worth the price of the book.
There are projects with very clear instructions for using both the direct and indirect method of applying tesserae.

What I particularly like is that the instructions include how to finish the projects, such as how to put the back on the mirror, what hardware to use, and how to apply it. The other mosaic books I have seen so far only tell how to make the mosaic part, and leave the finishing steps up to you.

Finally, there are many photos of incredible projects (such as an entire facade of a house) made by professional mosaicists, which the beginner would not attempt, but from which beginners and experienced alike can find inspiration.

Pros

1) Writing is friendly and encouraging.

2) Good beginning tutorial for several mosaic techniques.

3) Loaded with excellent photos of works in a wide variety of styles, by some very skilled artisans. The examples and designs in this book are above average.

4) Great project section in back of book. Designs and writing in this section are above average.

Cons

1) Expensive. It would have been nice if the publisher had printed the book in paperback, especially if it came with a wire-o binding, so you could lay it flat and read while you experiment.

2) Gallery photos are interspersed with descriptive text in first part of book, making it harder to read. It would have been better to have just the tutorial text and accompanying instruction photos in the first part of the chapter, and end each chapter with a gallery of examples.

3) Tutorial text in early chapters does not have numbered steps, although the projects section is formatted this way.

4) Writing throughout the book, especially in the first section, could be more clear.

5) No resource listings. It would have been nice if the authors had compiled a list of places to buy tools and materials.

6) Glossary and index are sad. Glossary defines seven words. Index is probably complete, but is loaded with undefined references (47, 51, 72, etc.).

This has been the single most inspiring book I've read on mosaic. The instructions are not only clear in their description, but there are photos in the different stages of progress for those of us who are "show me" people. The many photos throughout the book are fabulous and offer a wide variety of ideas and techniques for creating. There are helpful artist's tips included throughout the book too, as well as tools and materials listed for each project.

I bought 5 mosaic books while learning the technique and this is my favorite. Of the books I have read, this has the most comprehensive guide to the actual process of making a mosaic. There is an extensive section of tools, as well as the best explanation of the direct and especially indirect method that I have seen. Pictures are plentiful too for every step and offer some fabulous examples of what is possible with the art.

Very well done!

Dierks has carefully chosen an outstanding selection of mosaic artists to delight the reader's eyes. Certainly has some interesting projects that anyone can do given the time, space and inclination to do them. Helpful tips for the novice are included. Step by step photos of some of the techniques certainly make this book more helpful than others

A winner in all ways. This book is for the people who have done the little crafty bits and have not lost interest in favor of a new hobby of the month. It is for those who love the texture and reflectivity of this artform's materials and want to find out more.

The introduction and history section compares well to some of the better books. There is not that much but it is a respectable amount for a book that deals with technique and design.

Every book also has a tools and materials section and this one provides sufficient information for you to proceed without worrying if you are using the right adhesives or the right backing for your work. There is not much that one needs to add. This knowledge will provide a good foundation to build on. Explanations are clear and items pictured clearly.

The more common techniques are covered from beginning to end with, in one case, 17 small pointed images showing you exactly how. There is also a section on sculptural forms which shows you how to mosaic onto things that are not flat. Many other artists' work is also beautifuly presented in this book showing the different applications for the techniques that are covered in that section of the book. Very inspiring! It makes you want to get up and get going!

And when you do get going, there are 12 projects complete with templates and very concise intructions. They are all unique and there is something for everyone.

The contributing artists section would be more useful if there email addresses or web sites. The glossery also contains all of 7 items and the index is only 2 columns on a half a page. This could have been more complete.

This is a very good book for instruction, inspiration and beautiful pictures. An artist of any level would be happy with this purchase. 10 out of 10.

I first saw this book in the library and used it as a resource for a class I was teaching. It has a lot of information as well as photos of different styles. I have since purchased it and one other book for my own personal library.

Has all the basics, plus more. Great photos.