Furniture Books

Just about anything and everything you ever wanted or needed to know about upholstery is in this book. Photographs and descriptions of professional tools,

The book starts by teaching about style through the ages with the help of period drawings and paintings... then a walk through materials and techniques. Even a list of addresses of suppliers of professional upholstery supplies is provided. This is an essential reference for anyone thinking about upholstering anything.

I teach traditional upholstery restoration in NYC and always recommend to my students that they have this book as a resource. It is a wonderful reference -- very clear and concise -- with detailed illustrations. Thank goodness it is still in print, as traditional upholstery done with horse hair and hand stitching is rapidly losing its existence to a world of foam-based furniture constructed with glue and staples.

I agree entirely with the reviews of this admirable book. But the buyer should be aware that it's an English publication and all the sources for supplies etc are British. As one who is having a tough time finding American suppliers of materials suitable for antiques who are willing to sell retail, I'm finding that's a fairly big gap.

If you do an author/title search for this on Amazon, you will be amazed by how many times this book has been re-issued. You can also save some money - there's a range of prices for used copies.

First, like all of his woodworking books, the line drawings are fantastic. Second, the practical ideas are usable by woodworkers of all skill levels. Third, he writes well and provides all the information you need for what he's describing.

You owe it to yourself to get this book along with his others: Furniture Making Plain & Simple; & Hand Tools. These three books plus Bernard E. Jones' Complete Woodworker and Practical Woodworker will provide you with an unbelievable amount of information on hand tool woodworking. They may be from an earlier time, but quality never goes out of date.

Here is a fun read and a valuable resource for anyone with an interest in traditional woodworking. The book is worth buying just for the superb pencil illustrations. I have bought several of Aldren Watson's books, he is clearly a man of exceptional talent.

Truly one of the best instructional/reference books on early American country style furniture published in the last 50 years. Although the book covers some basics it is more geared to the intermediate to advanced skilled craftsman. It features over 250 pages of detailed text, illustrations and diagrams. The book has over 300 detailed pencil drawings by the author and has wonderful instruction and history of country furniture craft technique.

This is a great book with tons of wonderful pictures. There are many antiques and vintage items in the pictures, (which I LOVE), and the ideas are very short and simple. A great book to just open, get some ideas easily, and be inspired. If you like collecting, or like Vintage style decor, this book would be a great addition to your collection.

Everything what you want to know about the country style decoration, collectibles, cooking, and gardening is included in this book. It's perfect !

Large formate hardback with full page photos color each page, minimal captions, how to sections for creating your own unique interpretations of what you see. Compilation of photos from previous issues of Country Living Magazine condensed and available in one book. Abundant creative stimulation for moments when I just want to relax and allow myself some visual candy, snuggled comfortably listening to Miles Davis. Jazz and country? you bet!

When I saw that Joe L'Erario had written a book on finishing, I had to pick it up. I had stumbled across the Men in Toolbelts show many years ago and thought it was the funniest home improvement show I had ever seen (oddly, funnier than the comedy show). He and Ed Feldman knew what they were doing and knew how to explain it in a fun way.

And his book didn't fail to impress. The day I received it, I sat down and read it cover to cover.

The first section is a comprehensive volume on removing and repairing existing finishes. I had expected this to be a book on finishing woodworking projects, so that was a pleasant surprise.

The second section includes several techniques for finishing, including some I had never considered before, such as using lye to age cherry. He also includes a diatribe on hand-rubbed finishing which is the most comprehensive explanation of a finish I've ever seen.

The final section goes through 2 projects, a refinishing project and a finishing project. These are mostly application of knowledge, but do show the techniques in action.

This is the book to get. I used to watch Joe on the PBS series, and let me tell you that the "spit coat of shellac" is the trade secret that makes all the difference. This book is truley instrunctional and fun to read.

This is the first book I've purchased on finishing. I found it to be extremely informative and well written. I have watched the author previously on TV as one of the "Furniture Guys". He injects just enough humor to not detract from the subject, and he puts a lot of emphasis on safety which can be critical with not only finishing but all woodworking.

Whether you're a collector or would-be collector of american furniture, this is the single must-have book for you. Well-written and quite readable, this book is more than just a reference. Its engaging style and informative nature will make it hard to put down.It'll help you spot the best quality pieces and recognize those that have been tampered with. For the new collector buying from auctions or dealers, this book is priceless. It'll help you spot the best quality pieces and recognize those that have been 'restored'. If you want to really know what your colllecting, get this book first!

Having been sent this book as a present by a friend in the US, I felt I must tell others just what a treasure trove it is. It has been written by someone who not only obviously loves his subject, but who has written a clear, easy-to-read amd well-illustrated guide for those of us who have developed an interest in early American furniture but who lacked expertise. It also tells you how to care for furniture. I can't recommend it highly enough.

Early American Furniture: A Practical Guide for Collectors by John Obbard is filled with information about all aspects of furniture from this period. Chapter one starts with an overview of the furniture trade, followed by understanding period and style, evaluation of quality, identifying period workmanship, and identifying fakes and frauds. Each type of furniture has its own chapter (wing chair, Windsor, chest of drawers, desk, highboy, etc.). There are many illustrations, but the only photographs are on the cover. With all of this information covered, one can sense that this book states concepts "straight to the point". For example, on page 64, there is a paragraph which states to look for a detached shoe or two part shoe and that this is something to note with old furniture. A beginner is not going to grasp that concept from the paragraph and illustration. Regardless, this is a good review source for the experienced person or a good outline for a beginner. I have spent three times the price of this book for many with less information.

I bought this book because of the old milk can on the cover; I fell in love with the old kerosene heater instead. I went on a massive search to find a kersoene heater and once I found one, I had it cleaned and painted in one weekend. This book has great ideas and easy to follow instructions. I will definitely use this book again.

If you want to see more visit her new website at www.kandjcustommurals.com

Amazing work! Buy her pattern books, cd's and pattern packets too! You can't find them anywhere else.

Once again, Kerry Trout displays her work with beautiful photography and easy-to-follow instructions. I'm ready to hit the flea markets and start painting!!!

This is by far the best book on conservation i have ever read

Written as a guide for museum conservators by a conservator. Presents excellent practical information and presents a code of ethics. Anyone who owns, cares for or commercially works on antiques should read McGiffin's work.

At a workshop on conserving antiques given by conservators, this book was recommended as "one of the few reliable texts widely available." Their booklet describes the book: "Simple, easy to understand book on furniture care and simple treatments."

Garden Ornaments, 128 pages, over-size ppb... This book was a real problem for me to review . . . because I want to, and don't have room to describe about 20 of the 30 projects within its pages that are so:

1. Cool looking 2. Inexpensive 3. Comparatively easy 4. Unique 5. Creative

and because they use things like old clay pots, polystyrene fish boxes, rope, paint, orange boxes, old garden tool heads, new and old lumber, simple tools, etc. Some projects are quick and easy; some, like the mosaic table top and the garden awning, are more involved. All come with detailed instructions and photographs.

There are bird houses and feeders, fountains, planters, and boxes. I love the boxes. The trug, garden tray, farrier's or herb box, and orange box planter are elegant in a plain and primitive way. Filled with fresh produce, dried herbs and flowers, pots of seedlings or flowers, etc., etc., etc., they would make beautiful gifts. A sundial, weather vane, wind chime, wonderful garden markers, and planters . . . did you ever think of gluing rope to a clay pot? or screwing a clay pot to a clay tile to hang on a wall? These folks did, and more, and the results are beautiful.

The authors finish the book with several pages of instruction or ideas for using color, choosing and using paints and stains, creating simple finishes to protect and age wood, metal, and clay surfaces.

Garden Ornaments, 128 pages, over-size ppb.: This book was a real problem for me to review . . . because I want to, and don't have room to describe about 20 of the 30 projects within its pages that are so:

1. Cool looking 2. Inexpensive 3. Comparatively easy 4. Unique 5. Creative

and because they use things like old clay pots, polystyrene fish boxes, rope, paint, orange boxes, old garden tool heads, new and old lumber, simple tools, etc. Some projects are quick and easy; some, like the mosaic table top and the garden awning, are more involved. All come with detailed instructions and photographs.

There are bird houses and feeders, fountains, planters, and boxes. I love the boxes. The trug, garden tray, farrier's or herb box, and orange box planter are elegant in a plain and primitive way. Filled with fresh produce, dried herbs and flowers, pots of seedlings or flowers, etc., etc., etc., they would make beautiful gifts. A sundial, weather vane, wind chime, wonderful garden markers, and planters . . . did you ever think of gluing rope to a clay pot? or screwing a clay pot to a clay tile to hang on a wall? These folks did, and more, and the results are beautiful.

The authors finish the book with several pages of instruction or ideas for using color, choosing and using paints and stains, creating simple finishes to protect and age wood, metal, and clay surfaces.

Garden ornaments are one of the hot decorating themes today. You see them in stores and catalogs all over. This book will inspire you to make your own unique and sophisticated items that will beautify and enhance your outdoor space for years to come.

The 30 projects include something for every taste and skill level. Some of my favorites are a stenciled sunflower tray, mosaic table, hammock, horse weather vane, garden awing, bat box, fish box planter, bird table, shell textured pot, evergreen topiary bird, window pane clock and a slate fountain. All have excellent step-by-step instructions accompanied by demonstrating photos. A number of the projects require basic woodworking skills and tools.

Following the projects are advice sections on using color, buying paints and stains, and choosing and preserving lumber. Instructions are included for creating five different simple finishes and for aging metal and terra cotta. A nice list of suppliers is in the back.

If you're looking to create some great summer projects to spruce up your garden this is the book for you.

This books is great. What a different take on indoor gardening! I highly recommend this book for anyone wishing to make a statement with plants, both foliage and flowering, or the occasional gardener wanting a new perspective on houseplants and design. Very interesting book (and great pics too)!

Some people are into 'hip.' Some people are not. Don't let this title throw you: This book is not your pass-card to the ranks of the coolest of the Cool. It's about plants. It's also about pots and light and color and space.

Orlando Hamilton has put together a masterful beginner's guide to thinking about plants as design elements. Starting with the basics, he quickly reviews a variety of atmospheres, from Modern Chic to Retro to African Revival to Beach Comber, adroitly leading you into basic design concepts, then moving on to an element by element examination of how tone is set. Each style gets one page of commentary, one full page picture, and 3 inset sample shots to give a more in depth sense of the style. The result is a brisk introduction to the art that adroitly leads the reader into thinking about their own environment and the elements that define it.

Moving into specific components, Orlando manages to zoom in on particulars, coherently covering a range of possibilities, without letting you lose sight of the larger picture. He talks about individual spaces (bathrooms, stairs, diningrooms, hallways), how they relate to the whole, & reels off possibilities, complete with lavish pictures to illustrate his ideas, and captions to explain how the particulars come together. He talks about forms, textures, sizes, and colors, each one addressed separately, and how they contribute to a room's overall presentation. He talks about pots, he talks about stands, he talks about lighting, he talks about materials... He talks about _details_, and all those little things that you might not think of as important until you see for yourself the stunning impact something as simple as a pot can contribute to the whole.

I think the genius of this book is the brevity with which it is able to communicate ideas. The interplay between text, photograph, caption and title is such that the author is able to convey these ideas without bogging you down with text (unlike certain reviewers). The pictures are appropriately gorgeous, the text is brisk but friendly, the captions are tremendously useful in elaborating his points, and the section titles cut right to the heart of the matter. And yet he leaves plenty of room for you to disagree or improvise...he even has a small section on how to paint pots!

In other words, this isn't a step-by-step primer, it's an introduction to concepts. Concepts that, having been grasped, will help you shape your own creative atmosphere.

This will be the 8th time I have started to write this review today! I can't quite sum up into words how much I am enjoying this book! I love plants-- unfortunately; I know nothing about caring for them and keeping them healthy. I bought this book because I recently moved into a new town home and thought I would really love to incorporate some plants into all the new space our new home has to offer, but in a tasteful way. The ideas in this book are spectacular!! The book opens with several gorgeous photographs. The way the chapters are organized is wonderful! There is a chapter for different theme rooms (i.e.: Bold and Contemporary, Asian Fusion Style, Modern Mediterranean), a chapter for color and scent (what plants give off a full fragrant scent and what gives off light fresh scents, full page layouts of different plants of the same color), a chapter for shape and texture, a chapter for different rooms in the house (plants best suited for bathrooms, bedrooms, etc.),a chapter for choosing pots and containers, a chapter for lighting, a chapter for plant care, a plant maintenance guide to use for quick reference, an address and directory listing to some of the products listed in the book and lastly, an index for all the plants listed in the book. I plan on giving several of these to friends as gifts this year! The best thing about this book is that it isn't one of those books that you can admire the products used and never replicate them due to hard to find materials. The pots are all fairly easy to find (lots of them look like they are from Ikea, which you can do a telephone order for, some are terracotta pots that were spray painted silver and they look like metal! and some are big ceramic pots that you can often pick up at flea markets, yard sales or even stores like garden ridge or home depot). This is a great book for anyone looking to incorporate plants into their home!

I own stacks of decorating, interior design and painting technique books, but none come even close to the wit and personality of Judyth Van Amringe's inspired volume "Home Art". The moment I set eyes on the deliciously painted and tufted couch on the cover of her book, I was hooked. With an armload of practical tips, Van Amringe challenges you to look beyond the "tried and true" interior designs tips. From lampshades strewn with silky fabric roses to the handpainted "Barnacle Table", you will find nothing here but pure inpiration and delight. Admittedly, some of the projects may not be your cup 'o tea, but rest assured, once inside the pages of this book, you will be hard pressed not to throw it down in search of something to paint, glue or stitch. This is must-have book...beg, borrow or steal, this is one for your shelves!!

Imaginative, intelligently-written and a comfortable glide into the wackier extremes of home decor...what an inspiring book. I doubt that EVERY project will appeal to the reader, but ALL of them display a thinking-out-of-box quality that will help inspire the reader into making their own home into a very personal expression of fresh decor. Enjoy!

I own stacks of decorating, interior design and painting technique books, but none come even close to the wit and personality of Judyth Van Amringe's inspired volume "Home Art". The moment I set eyes on the deliciously painted and tufted couch on the cover of her book, I was hooked. With an armload of practical tips, Van Amringe challenges you to look beyond the "tried and true" interior designs tips. From lampshades strewn with silky fabric roses to the handpainted "Barnacle Table", you will find nothing here but pure inpiration and delight. Admittedly, some of the projects may not be your cup 'o tea, but rest assured, once inside the pages of this book, you will be hard pressed not to throw it down in search of something to paint, glue or stitch. This is must-have book...beg, borrow or steal, this is one for your shelves!!