Furniture Books

This is one of the best woodworking books out there. You not only learn how to build several projects but you learn the art of case construction!

I own this book and "Building Fine Furniture" (also by Glen Huey). They are both very detailed, providing complete cut lists, exploded diagrams of each piece, and thorough instructions with plenty of pictures.

I haven't built any of the pieces in the book, but I've use several of the techniques described in other pieces.

Now this is how a book of this type should be done. Nice easy to read detail/plan layouts/etc. Nicely done color photos. This book is a excellent choice.

This book is a standout because every piece in it is an elegant classic worthy of the effort required to build it. I don't know of any other book for which I'd make that assertion. More often books have just a few designs that meet the requirements of truly elegant proportions, classic design and practical utility for a modern home, while the majority of plans given are historically interesting but often display awkward proportions and have little practical value for the way we live now, and the spaces we live in. Not all old designs are good designs! The title of this book, "Fine Furniture for a Lifetime," is appropriate because the designs are so excellent that you'll never in your lifetime come to the realization that you've outgrown them, which can happen with lesser designs. Instead, I think you'll appreciate them more as your design sense matures.

The author's constructed examples are beautifully done, from what is often magnificent wood. The process photographs are clear and informative. The construction steps are well organized and presented. Suggested techniques are professional.

I do have one criticism, and that's regarding the drawings. All of them are done as an exploded view, and in perspective. Only a few dimensions are given on the drawings. You're required to refer to a separate cutting list to get the actual measurements. There are no straight on elevation or plan drawings. These drawings are well done, and together with the cutting lists the information's all there. But you have to labor intellectually a bit more than otherwise necessary to make sense of it. This is in contrast to the furniture drawings of Carlyle Lynch or Franklin Gottshall, for example, who do give you fully dimensioned plan and elevation drawings, and also perspective exploded views where needed. But in my opinion the designs in this book justify the additional effort required.

Great book, I've not made anything from it, but I like the new way that they are printing these How-To books. Lots of pictures 4-5 per page with assembly instructions explaining the pictures. It makes it easier than 2-3 pages of instructions, and you guessing how it all goes together.

History of Interior Design is great. I study interior design and, without John Pile's books, this wide-ranging subject would have been far more difficult. Studying the subject "history of interior design" would have been such a struggle for me without having this book at my side. I just couldn't find all I needed on the internet. Apart from the high quality paper and excellent images, John Pile has a writing style that gets his point across very clearly. That makes for rapid reading and faster absorption of information.

WOW! beautifully organized and articulated. thoughtful and well-rounded discussion of the variation and evolution of interior design. it was purchased to use as a course resource (on 20th century American consumer culture), but am now tempted to buy my OWN copy.

It's a very interesting book, it offers a vew over design from ancient times to ower days. We can follow the developement of design over time. The book is recomended especialy for professional designers.

I really do enjoy the book except that on some important topics in the class I am taking with this book there is little information. Nonetheless on the topics it greatly expands upon the book shows impressive and accurate knowledge. The pictures also aid in examples and are for the msot part the best picture examples that any book could offer.

If you're bored with historical overviews of a discipline, you're in for a surprise. Pile brings interior design to life with vibrant examples, wonderful background detail, and the kind of information that will help you understand this arena with much more depth.

Excellent value for the money. Beautiful photos covering a broad range of interiors.

This LUSH book captivates the eye and provides such a visual feast of color, I feel saturated, then satiated, each time I dip into it. Good for hours of fun.

I have to say, I was lucky enough to meet Deidi on her travels in Ladakh and can tell you that she is one intrepid traveler. There was a war going on in Kashmir when she went to take these photos - although you'd never know it from these pictures which paint such a beautiful image of these sumptuous settings.

She is a great photographer, with three Taschen books to her credit (Gardens of France, and Fantasy Worlds). She also makes enormous photos of sacred trees in India which are exhibited in galleries - very dramatic and her best work yet!

This book focuses a great deal on Rajasthan, but also includes regional coverage of key areas.

A first of its kind and a good antidote to the predictable picture books of India. Everyone expects India photo books to show weird babas in Benares and starving people in Calcutta, so it's good for the West to see there's more to India than that.

Glad to see that scenes from the folk and peasant traditions are included alongside the fantastic royal palaces, proving that art has no boundaries.

This is a gorgeous book, beautifully laid out, with good photography and a vast range of type of interiors from palaces to village huts. Having spent significant time traveling throughout India, I frankly opened this book fully expecting to be disappointed and expecting it to be one more example of journalism not being able to do justice to the breadth and scope of India. We see that failure in all manner of books about India, from cook books, design books, culture books, and travel books; any subject that trys to cover the subcontinent in one fell swoop. Remarkably, this book achieves what no others I've seen has. In addition to photography of Deco interiors, British Revival, and Native Cultural Design, INDIAN INTERIORS wisely leaves the commentary to short blocks of text detailing the background of the property and the homeowners but not forming broad judgements or attempting to endlessly characterize and embellish. I have photo books on Village India, India Rail, Indian Design, etc., and they all try to do too much and not let the material speak for itself. This book is different, very different, and from what I've seen from this publisher in other venues, Taschen is one to watch for if you like your material presented succinctly and beautifully without gushing or extraneous filler.

This totally sumptuous book has been beautifully produced and is proof yet again that Taschen are publishing some of the most beautiful books around. Apart from being a visual delight, each picture has accompanying text on the place featured. The book covers a wide range of interiors from palaces and havelis to Rajasthani huts and everything in between. Whether you are interested in Indian style or interiors generally, you will find much to like in this book.

We review a number of books and the first time we saw this one, we were very sure it was going to make to our top selections list. And we were not wrong.

A beautifully laid out book with 500 vivid color photographs is a visual treat. Recipedelights.com gives it a "must-buy" rating for interior designers and style lovers. One of the few books that correct the injustice done by western journalists and gives a positive spin to thousands of years of culture and history. It truly reflects the grandeur of Indian style by weaving a colorful mélange that will come as no surprise to anyone who has ever visited India. This book explores a spectrum of interiors ranging from Palaces to Havelis to Huts. It does not bore with endless text or try to influence the judgment of the reader. Short text (In English, German and French) accompanies each photograph though the pictures speak for themselves.

I bought this book when it first came out and have probably looked through it over a hundred times since then. It's a perfect blend of what is modern and traditional in Italian country interiors and I would be happy to live in any of these rooms. I love this book.

Italian Country Living TRAVEL WITH THE AUTHORESS INTO THE LAND OF GENTLE, CULTURED PEOPLE OF ITALY. THIS BOOK IS VERY NICELY ILLUSTRATED IN LARGE PICTURES AND SELECT COMMENTS. I ENJOYED THE JOURNEY AND WILL TRAVEL WITHIN ITS RICH PAGES AGAIN SOON.

Move to Italy or buy a second home in Tuscany - and start decorating it!
That's what you will want to do after closing and putting down "Italian Country Living" by Caroline Clifton-Mogg.
Homes rustic and eclectic, contemporary and traditional - they are all so down-to-earth and so charming, breathtakingly beautiful.
Ok, don't move to Italy. Read the "Elements" chapter and make youself your own little Italy at home.

Intersting homes are featured in this book with some unpredictable decorating. It has great photography of the homes as well as fantastic views on some of the featured properties. I also recommend French Country Living by the same author.

The seller says I will receive a credit, and allowed me to return the book. It is a nice book, not exceptional; good addition to references.

If you want to make marquetry, buy marquetry or just appreciate marquetry this is an excellent resource. It has the kind of detailed information coupled with drawings and a bounty of color photos rarely seen in one book. Worth the money!! Go see the exhibit at the Getty!

This book is published by the Getty museum, which has an absolutely wonderful permanent exhibit on marquetry that includes many fine examples and a touchable how-to exhibit depicting start to finish manufacture of marquetry furniture. The book is a detailed how-to on various types of marquetry (including wood, metal and stone) with both color (over 150 color photos, more color pics than B&W) and black-and-white pictures of a large variety of examples from Renaissance through 17th and 18th century through modern (not too many or too-weird modern), plus many photos showing marquetry in progress in the how-to section. It is also a large, beautiful enough book for your coffeetable. If only every art/craft topic could have such a wonderful book.

Marquetry is impressive if you are making a simple flower or a project as ornate as the examples that are given in this book. Covering the art form from the early adopters in France and Italy, he explains in detail the procedures, as well as the tools that are used. When you see some of the pictures of the projects, you will think that you need a lifetime of practice to get to those levels, and maybe you do. They are so elaborate and ornate that you will appreciate what can be done in the art form.
The book is large and is something worth featuring on a shelf. It is wonderfully illustrated, and they don't short you on the full color photographs.
The chapters are; Veneer Decoration, History, The Marqueters Workshop, The Materials, The Instruments, The Drawing, Preparation, Procedures, Frisage and Jeux De Fond, The Construction of Cutting Tools, and Conclusion.
The book is 14" x 10" and every page is packed with beautiful color photographs, and at the very least a drawing. Makes for an interesting read, as well as seeing what is being explained in full color. With so many full size color photos, you can see why the book is more expensive than a standard book.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned practitioner in the art form, this book will capture you. See the highest forms in the art, chosen by the top museums for display. All in all a first class reference. Highly recommended.

I have two books of the same author: Masterpieces of marquetry (or something simmilar since it is written in French) and Marquetry. Each of the books cost over 100 USD in France and belong to a collection this author has published on the same subject. The Marquetry book (in English) I believe is the best book of its class. It has very detailed sketches of real antique designs. It not only explains the techniques but also stone inlaying, designing of tools and benches for cutting materials, etc.

E um livro muito interessante, porem, apenas para quem tem curiosidade ou gosta muito de marchetaria. Belissimas imagens. Quem faz marchetaria nas horas vagas tera uma boa referencia, inclusive com a historia dessa arte. Capa dura, muito ilustrado, acredito que tera um lugar de honra em sua biblioteca.

Mauricio - Brazil

I found this book to be completely comprehensive on the subject of marquetry. Everyone who loves this art form will want to have this in their library.

Great photos and informative text about Stickley and the Arts and Crafts movement. Our house is mission-ish and this adds to the enjoyment of the design.

An excellent book for both the Stickley and Arts & Crafts Movement enthusiast. We recommend it.

woodworking projects. We moved in this Arts & Crafts house built in 1912 two years ago and started remodeling a bit by bit. Also my woodworking hobby has taken off along with the remodeling. The more we have done on the house, the more we like and the more we want to know about it. I have been in the stores looking at those expensive mission style furnitures and mimic the design on my own piece. I designed every piece I made for the house. Then at the point that we think we need to know more about the history of Arts & Crafts and bigger picture, we bought this book. It is surprisely good book that contains everything we were looking for. Gorgeous pictures, stunning furniture. When we were refinishing the master bedroom, we were looking at the book constantly for ideas and colors. Now the room is done, I am looking forward to making my next project - morris chair. Again, I already know what it will look like from this book. Well, this book is not only for people like me who needs reference but also very nice one for those Arts & Crafts enthusiasts.

Knowing what a nut I am for Stickley and all things relating to the Arts and Crafts movement, my wife bought me this book for Christmas. Believe me when I say that this book is not something you are likely to skim once or twice and then put away. I read the whole thing and found it to be an excellent resource for all who love Stickley's furniture and the Craftsman lifestyle. As a woodworker I can attest that there are loads of great photographs to inspire you to build reproductions of Stickley classics. As a DIY-er I appreciate the home improvement and color scheme ideas that I was able to gather in this book.

As a librarian I have already read and reviewed many books on this subject. I can honestly say that (to-date) this book covers the Arts and Crafts lifestyle as well as any other and is second to none when it comes to understanding the rise and fall of Stickley's style. Highly recommended.

This book is full of lush photographs of Stickley homes. I bought it because it was well-designed, as well as informative. The photo references are impressive, and overall the book pays the same attention to detail that Stickley did. For example, I was impressed that beneath the dust jacket, the cover of the book itself was a beautiful print of a Ginko Flower textile. Almost every page has full color images, and at the back there are individual photo references for furniture, lighting, and decorative items, much like a catalog. The whole thing is indexed as well. Useful as a reference book for research, or an art book to just enjoy.

I was very satisfied with Amazon. My book was packaged extremely well so that the pages wouldn't get messed up. I was surprised at how fast I received it too.

I purchased three books on tin toys and dollhouses, and this one was the best by far to help me evaluate some tin/metal doll houses I was buying.

The book sections are by the doll house maker, with excellent photographs that help identify them, and estimated years that they were sold.

In addition there are photographs of the furniture that you would typically find in these houses. This helps alot if you have just purchased an empty doll house, and you want to furnish it with vintage items of the correct size and type.

Simply an excellent reference book for tin doll house collectors or just old-timers wanting a bit of nostalgia :)

Mary Brett has written the Bibile of Tin Litho houses. Excellent pictures of the houses detail their interiors, exteriors and the furniture needed to make them cosy little homes. All major producers are covered, Marx, Cohn, Wolverine to mention just a few. Ms. Brett also includes a section on the more unusual items, such as the rare and unique Friendly Folks Motel. Better buy two copies, this book is destined to become dog-earred and worn before very long.

Great reference book for collector of 40's and 50's plastic doll house furniture. Copyright in 1997 makes pricing guide a tad out of date . . . nevertheless a good starting reference price range. Great photos. Interesting information on producing companies.

This is a wonderful reference quide for baby boomers who want to collect dollhouses and furniture! What great memories this book brought back. I found doll houses and furniture I once had and some of the models my cousins and friends had in the 1950's! This is a trip down memory lane and the price is great for this publication. Amazon delivers quickly, too!

Great artist and wonderful instructions. Customer service is great too! She is prompt at answering questions and I love this book. Flynn Gentry-Taylor

I'm not artistically inclined, but think that after reading this book, I might actually be able to transform one of my old pieces of furniture into something quite nice! The photos and instructions are well thought out. There are patterns to enlarge and follow, too. Pretty much everything you need but paint and brushes is in the book. I'm going to give it a try. I've been inspired! There are 'workbook' pages for vines and roses and so on, so I think I'll practice some of the easier looking ones and then jump right in and paint my furniture and see what happens. Wish me luck!

As an artist, I'm continually searching for fresh, new, inspiration and information. This book presents page after page of beautiful painting ideas and instructions. I was very pleased with the information provided- start to finish, with each project. The beautiful worksheets covering layout ideas, borders, and artwork illustrations were extremly helpful. I have been painting with the one-stroke technique for years and now have a new avenue to explore. This book would be of great value to a longtime painter like myself or someone ready to try furniture or home accessory painting for the first time. I have paid far more for many books that had much less to offer. A great value!

As a small antiques and collectibles dealer, I have had the opportunity to purchase hand painted furniture and gift items from Karen Petrus Williams for the last twelve years. I knew she had a book coming out and was expecting great things. WOW!! She exceeded even my expectations. I have purchased books to display with her work in the shop. This review is to encourage other artists to follow her techniques. There is a market out there. Grandma's Keepers Katy, Texas

Ok, so I wrote it- this is Karen and I want you all to know I did my best to put everything I look for in a painting book- in this book. As an artist I am very visual so there are design ideas, adaptable patterns, and step by step instruction to turn your simple brush strokes into your own beautiful designs. And all the designs can be used on multiple surfaces- not just furniture.
My purpose in writing this book was to give you the tools, the information, and the tricks of the trade I have learned for the past 15 years to create your own pieces and enjoy doing it! I did my best and I hope you learn and enjoy the wonder of paint and design transformations.
And yes I did give it a 4 because I think its good but you always want it to be a little better. If you are an artist you always see where you could make improvements. Maybe on my next book. Thank you for your time and to all who helped me and encouraged me on this project. I truly hope you enjoy this book- but mostly I hope you learn from it.

I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars. It is an absolutely gorgeous book for anybody interested in table settings of the most elegant kind. As well as spectacular photography of the most sumptuous crystal and china, the text is fascinating as it explains the history of table settings and of individual antiques.

As a person who is particularly interested in mixing and matching colored crystal and different china patterns on the table, I have found it to be of immense help and has given me even more courage to blend different styles together.

I will treasure this book forever.

The ultimate guide to quality tabletop antiques for those of us who cannot get enough of these kind of "pretties". Have owned this book for 10+ years, and still "pour" over it, can never get enough of it!! Besides being informative, the pictures are literally intoxicating. If you love all things old and elegant (nothing shabby here) for dining and entertaining, this is the book for you. If you look at decorating books and get disgusted with cookie cutter tablewear, or you would die before going into a Pottery Barn or Pier One, this is the book for you. Tasteful, classic, traditional and always in style. Like a very wealthy elderly MD once told me, "anyone can have new things". Ladies, if you think like me, you will totally understand this!

This book is a must for those who truly enjoy a great table! The photos are magnificent and is beautifully written. I found that I learned a LOT by simply looking at the photos of china, crystal and glassware. From this book alone, I chose my sterling silver flatware and china patterns and have never regretted it! The book also gives ideas on simple room decorations as well - even though this is not a primary focus of the book itself. I really can't say enough good about this book......

This book is everything I hoped it would be. The photographs are stunning and the book is full of them. There is virtually no repetition. A beautiful, inspirational tome for anyone who loves to set the table.

as i am an admirer of atelier van lieshout, the book is very interesting, amazing - you can read and look in it, whenever you have a couple of minutes, re-read it, re-look at it, there is always something new you can explore

Great artist, great book. Nice format. It actually includes a manual and plans to build fiberglass structures according to Joep Van Lieshout's desings. You also get a detailed step-by-step guide to pickle pork meat. His conception of art, installation, color and life are all equally interesting. Get it if you can.

brilliant vision. impact realization. one doesn't know whether it is a joke or to take it all dead seriously. the power lies in this double edge.

(horizontal format paperback) A nice range of photographs and essays describe the activities and products of Lieshout and his camp. Includes photographs, plans, and do it yourself type instruction for sexy camper units, toilet fixtures, kitchen furnishings, skinning and perserving pork, and weapons- BRING ON THE APOCALYPSE!