Customer Reviews

The Penland Book of Glass: Master Classes in Flamework Techniques

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have said this of only one other book to date; buy it now, because if it goes out of print and become unavailable, you will regret not having purchased it. (At least if you are someone who works with glass)
I don't know why I waited so long to get this book. I guess because I hadn't seen it. One day, while exploring in a brick & mortar store, I came across this book and was wowed; knew I had to get it. Of course Amazon charges 30% less, so I came home & ordered it. Now having physical possession of the book, I am even more impressed, enough to call it my favorite book in the area (and I have A LOT OF GLASS BOOKS).
The photography and overall quality of the book is wonderful. The images provide a pretty good survey of the top glass artist in the world right now, and several have generously provided step by step how-tos.
I really enjoyed reading their biographies and the personal insights into their own creative process provided by each of the contributing artists.
I think this book would be invaluable to anyone who works with glass, irrespective of their level, and to people interested in the arts in general. It is a wonderful survey of the top hot glass artists creating today.
I can't say enough good things about this book.
Bravo (Lark) very well done!

The Penland Book of Glass: Master Classes in Flamework Techniques isn't just a great glass, art, or craft book. Rather, it may simply be the best, most engaging book of 2009. Ten of the world's top glassworkers are showcased: Paul Stankard, Shane Fero, Kristina Logan, Vittorio Costantini, Sally Prasch, Elizabeth Ryland Mears, Janis Miltenberger, Ingalena Klenell, Susan Plum, and Emilio Santini. Each artist presents her or his personal story and artistic philosophy in distinct, very well-written chapters. The chapters are paired with photographic how-to sections (how to create a disk bead, a bird, a goblet, etc.) that include exemplary instructional detail and technique description.

The book will be a great asset for glass workers, as well as general artists interested in learning about flamework. But, beyond that, The Penland Book of Glass is a phenomenal coffee-table book--eye-candy for the artistic soul. Many works of the featured artists are presented, of course, alongside dozens of masterpieces from other flameworkers, such as Gianni Toso, Loren Stump, Ginny Ruffner, Andre Gutgesell, Masami Koda, Lucio Bubacco, Hans Godo Frabel, and Kate Fowle Meleney, to name just a few. Inspiration abounds.

For expert as well as novice, glass worker as well as layperson, The Penland Book of Glass offers unceasing treasure in word and glass on the printed page. You'll love this book. In fact, buy several: At Amazon's price, it makes a formidable, discerning gift, as well as an object you'll forever prize having in your home--a masterpiece all its own, very much like the artwork it showcases.

This is a wonderful addition to any library whether you are a glass artist or just collect art books. I purchased the book after being referred by the wife of featured artist, Vittorio Constantini. His bio, tutorials and breath taking fine glass art work are fabulous! This book does the same justice to all of the talented glass artists that are represented in it.

The Penland Book of Glass is beautiful, filled with images of fantastic work from leading flameworkers. Just as importantly, the ten featured chapter artists each give fascinating and very well-written accounts of their lives and their work, providing tremendous insight into the artistic process and mind. I can't say enough about the quality of this publication. It is an heirloom-quality book you'll want to give as a gift to friends and family members, while keeping one on your own bookshelves.

I buy a lot of books on glass, but this is definitely the best I have ever read. I liked it so much I gave my first copy away (to a glass worker) and bought myself another one. The chapters are written by the world's best glass artists (eg Paul Stankard) telling us how they make their glass masterpieces. It was almost enough to inspire me to buy a furnace and get started! [...]

This book is a great price for the knowledge. I highly recommend it. It is not a book for beginners flame-work, more for someone with at least the basics down, and someone who knows the basics of glass-working and terms. Although, I still believe that a beginner can still use this book with very basic knowledge and a little help from the internet. the techniques for making the bird, and a few of the techniques can easily be replicated at home with minimal effort and a small investment. I like how the book both showcases the work of the artists while still giving knowledge to the craft of flamework.

"The Penland Book Of Glass" is an amazing collection of 10 "Master Classes" that provides an overview to artist's approach (in their own words) to "Flameworking" and a detailed hands-on section showing their intermediate\advanced glass working techniques. We have a little experience working with glass making jewelry for my wife's small business, so I have real appreciation for the skills needed to create some of the outstanding pieces shown in the galleries.

Like previous Lark Craft publications I have reviewed, this is a beautiful book that is filled cover to cover with gorgeous photos. The ten artist's sections are informative and interesting, but the "Hands On" projects, complete with clear directions and photos, are what makes this truly outstanding. I should note that very little mention is made of tools and setup, so this is not the book for absolute novices.

As mentioned above, the photos in this book are absolutely amazing quality and we are treated to not one, but two galleries. Both of the galleries show off and highlight the artist's works, providing real inspiration for what can be created in glass.

This useful book is a great addition to my craft book collection, even if a lot of the techniques are currently above my ability (for now)!

Highly Recommended!

CFH

Note: I was provided with a review copy of this book by the publisher, but that in no way affects my rating.

I purchased this exquisite book as a gift for our son, who has a great love for beautiful glass art. It is filled with great photography, wonderful info from the artists, and actual photos of glass art in production. He loved it, and I know he will enjoy this book for years to come.

I've been lucky enough to take some classes at Penland, a vibrant home for craft work and life. This book--truly inspirational, capturing the artistry and soul of 10 amazing artists, filled with photographs of finished works and pieces being made--is a fitting testament to the flameworking part of Penland's glass program.

Far beyond the school itself, though, The Penland Book of Glass excels both as a gallery book and as a resource for deep, meaningful learning. Any fan of glasswork or fine artistry will find the book to be rich, abundant, and beautiful. It's a truly great book, easily and happily worth the price even during these times.

If you have ever wondered how glass beads are made and how, this is the must have book. It is full of some of the best beads made today and step by step instructions. So if you are a beginner or an advanced lampworker best investment you can make.