Customer Reviews

Mosaic Techniques & Traditions: Projects & Designs from Around the World

5 star:		(26)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is absolutely THE book to have on mosaics, whether you are seeking historical/geographical information, artistic inspiration, or technical know-how. I own and use just about all of the mosaic books currently available, but this is the one book on the subject that I would say is essential, whether you're a beginner or an experienced mosaicist. No skimping on the beautiful and detailed pictures (over 500, all of them luscious), and the author's friendly, inclusive tone makes it clear that mosaic art can be joyfully and successfully participated in by just about anyone who wants to play.

Creating mosaic art is an interesting field - it can be both highly technical and joyfully simple. Sonia King's book is by far the best I've encountered at bridging those two ends of the continuum; she discusses the properties of materials used (necessary to know so that your stuff will stick to your other stuff and not fall apart), the wide range of materials available now that can be utilized in successful mosaicking, and step-by-step how-to, but also makes it very clear that this is a field wide open for your own experimentation and self-expression. Maximum info, minimum rules - wahoo, what more could you want?

And beautiful! Never mind whether or not you ever intend to cement a shard of glass to backing - the wonderful photos in this book make it well worth owning for anyone that appreciates art. She covers both historic and contemporary works with well-photographed pictures and in sufficient detail that the truly obsessed can examine them essentially tile by tile. Just looking through this book is inspiring, whatever your aesthetic sense or medium of expression. It will get your creative juices flowing, and once you are inspired it will lead you through the steps to create beautiful works of your own.

I have over 50 books about mosaics and this is by far my favorite. It covers many different styles and the instructions are clearly written and very easy to follow. Sonia King is known throughout the mosaic community as an expert and this book is a great showcase of her vast knowledge. A MUST HAVE for beginners and veteran mosaicists alike!

This amazing book has EVERYTHING. Is it a gorgeous coffee table book- or an easy to read, invaluable 'how to'? It's both- and so much more. Expert instruction- with proven tips that even the most experienced mosaicists will learn from- and will save beginners untold hours of frustration. The most extensive colllection of contemporary mosaics I've ever seen assembled in one place-- (many that I've never seen published anywhere else)- all beautifully photographed. I dare you not to be inspired! Stop reading now... and buy this book!

This book, along with "The Encyclopedia of Mosaic Techniques", is a must for you whether you are beginning mosaics or have some expertise. The background material provides enough information to give the reader an appreciation of the historical, as well as artistic, perspective on the art. The technical information is sufficient to allow the reader to further their craft. Definitely a must have!

If you have two books on your mosaic shelf, this one, along with Emma Biggs' "Encyclopedia of Mosaic Techniques" is what you want. Not only does it deliver an incredibly comprehensive catalogue of classic and contemporary mosaics from around the world, but Ms. King generously shares many of the secrets, tips, and techniques that have made her a leader in the mosaic art world. Like Biggs, King is an original -- taking this art form to new levels by mixing materials, designs, and methods in ways not seen before.

The projects showcased are both delightful and instructional. You'll be able to work from start to finish on any of them without those nagging uncertainties that plague one when approaching a new medium. I've bought plenty of books on mosaics and started into something only to stop at some point and go "Huh?" Not with this book. Ms. King has translated her years of work as a mosaic instructor into useful, easy to understand, and thoughtful information.

Last, but not least in a list of the book's attributes is just how much fun it is to read. If you're like me, you've fallen asleep while wading your way through "The History of Mosaics" sections in a lot of books. You will not find that the case here. Ms. King writes from the heart and shares her love of this art form in a genuine voice. Imagine having your best friend go on vacation to explore mosaics and then come back and share their excitement with you. That's what this book offers.

I could have saved hundreds of dollars if Ms. King had just published this two years ago! Buy and enjoy!

Ms. King has combined the rich history of mosaics with many wonderful photographs and clear instructions on technique all in one book! I have never enjoyed reading art history as much...the photographs represent the "lessons" so well and I feel like "I'm getting it". The author has transported me to places I will probably never see. I have many mosaic books and I would say this book is the best instructional mosaic book on cutting, shaping and design. The projects range from beginner to advanced making this a must have book for all mosaic enthusiasts, from the experienced artists to those new to the world of mosaics.

This book was written by a mosaic artist and teacher who's travelled extensively and kept her eyes open (and her camera ready)while sightseeing. The breadth of her scope is very satisfying (ranging from the ancient Greek and Roman to the very, very modern, with every significant school represented). She absolutely knows the medium, and gives sound and practiced techniques for creating various types of mosaics. She also includes photographs of all kinds of different work, so the reader can be inspired by a style that speaks to him or her. My only reservation about this book comes from the fact that my taste and hers differ, so there are other books available which (in my opinion)offer a more pleasing selection of mosaics to be inspired by.

Ms King has brought forth a lavish book bursting with gorgeous photography of ancient as well as modern mosaics. I own practically every book on this subject and there were photos of mosaics I have never seen before in print, truly inspiring! Every mosaic technique is described clearly and accurately in words as well as pictures - making this "the book to buy"! I read it front to back and sideways in one weekend - it now owns a place of honor on my cocktail table - perhaps it will inspire one of my guests. I'm purchasing another to keep in my workshop! Thank you, Sonia, for sharing your knowledge and travels with us!

This book is so good on so many different levels. If you are a beginner, it will inspire you thru the pictures and tutorials. If you are more advanced, it will show you endless possibilities on what you can become.

This book covers mosaic art quite well - with sections on the history, design, techniques, tools, projects to get one started, and lots of eye candy from many artists, including the author. I became fascinated with mosaics during a trip to Italy in August of this year. Upon return to the States, my goal was to obtain a better level of knowledge so that I might eventually be able to experiment a bit. King's text does an excellent job of explaining the process, from design through to placing the tesserae and grouting the finished work. My confidence has gone up quite a bit by reading and giving some thought to the recommendations provided.

I also agree with earlier reviews stating that this book and Emma Biggs' "Encyclopedia of Mosaic Techniques" make a nice combination. Between these two, I'm ready to tackle a project. Some smalti, weldbond, nippers, cutters, and wedi board is already on the way!