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Complete Book Of Gourd Carving, Revised & Expanded: Ideas And Instructions For Fretwork, Relief, Chip Carving, And Other Decorative Methods

This authoritative guide covers every method and style of gourd carving, with contributions by 92 international gourd artists and more than 625 gorgeous color photographs. Fretwork, engraving, chip carving, gouge work, relief carving, inlay, and sculptural carving are all thoroughly examined.A newly expanded gallery section will inspire gourd artists everywhere, and is the largest ever published. Color photographs of exquisitely carved gourds present crafts styles from countries around the world. Step-by-step projects introduce new tools and techniques in progressive order of difficulty. Detailed instructions are provided for working with both hand tools and powered rotary carvers. Filled with new patterns and photos, creative ideas and remarkable examples, Complete Book of Gourd Carving, Revised and Expanded is an essential reference for both crafters and art collectors.

Paperback: 224 pages

Publisher: Fox Chapel Publishing; Rev Exp edition (August 1, 2014)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1565238257

ISBN-13: 978-1565238251

Product Dimensions: 0.5 x 8.5 x 11 inches

Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)

Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (20 customer reviews)

Best Sellers Rank: #514,020 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #133 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Crafts & Hobbies > Flower Arranging & Crafts > Flower Arranging #136 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Crafts & Hobbies > Nature Crafts #195 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Crafts & Hobbies > Wood Crafts & Carving > Carving

I may be a bit biased, since my gourd art is represented in this book. However, it is really a very well laid out book, containing loads of gourd carving information. There is a diverse collection of artist's work included, as well. This book is one of those books that is a go to for technique, no matter at what level a gourd artist might be at. It is a welcom addition to my studio library!

The revised and expanded "Complete Book of Gourd Carving" is a re-release of the original book of the same name that was published in hardcover in 2004 by Sterling Publishing. The latest softcover version is published by Fox Chapel and has been expanded by a 48 page gallery section addition to the book. The rest of the book remains unchanged.The orginal publication was a great overview of carving technqiues, and while actual tutorials and instructions were limited, the scope of the subject and the quantity and quality of participating artists made the photo illustrations the true focus of the book. The newest version reflects the advances that have been made in carving over the last 10 years, and the photos that are included are great examples of the strides that have been made artistically over the years.*Disclaimer - some of my work is pictured in the original book and also in the new expanded gallery section.My only caveat for those purchasing this book would be that you realize that while some basic carving instruction is present, it is somewhat limited. Other books are available on specific carving techniques if you want to explore something further. The true strength of this book is in introduction of many different types of carving, and the great photos of completed art that will inpire you.

Overall I like this book, there are 2 reasons for the 4-star instead of the 5-star rating. 1. As other reviewers have mentioned, the "instructional" part is very lacking. The second reason really has nothing to do with the book but the artwork featured. There is no doubt the artists are amazing talents creating amazing work, but I cannot understand why some work the gourd so much that all "gourdness" has been eliminated/destroyed. Many of the pieces might be gourds but in appearance they could just as easily be ceramic, blown glass, bronze sculpture, wood carving, etc. I much prefer that enough gourd is left to tell it is a gourd and don't think the "overworked" pieces are necessarily good GOURD art no matter how well done. I do recommend the book though, the information is interesting.

Bought this for a friend, who loves it. Great transaction!

Awesome book beautiful pictures, lots of ideas.

very good book. just what I was looking for

Great ideas for carving gourds.

Love love love this book

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