The Art of the Russian Matryoshka by
Nesting one inside the other, wooden matryoshka dolls are a favorite toy in Russian homes and are collected by enthusiasts around the world. Illustrated throughout with color photographs, this volume tells the story of matryoshka production from the doll's first appearance in the toy making center of Sergiev Posad in 1899 through its contemporary interpretations by entrepreneurial artists. Each step in the manufacturing process from the cutting of logs through the final lacquering of the dolls is described in detail.
Priscilla Hauser's Book of Painting Patterns by
The acknowledged queen of decorative painting has a gift for those who love to pick up the brush: more than 200 of her most striking patterns. These are the most popular designs among Priscilla Hauser’s many students, and they include florals, fruits, folk art and garden motifs, baskets and other containers, animals, and holiday ideas. It’s a goldmine...and there’s still more, because Priscilla supplies plenty of information on using and transferring the patterns; choosing supplies; and mastering such techniques as shading and highlighting, blending, changing colors, and finishing the piece. She also covers preparing and painting on different surfaces, from glass and fabric to wood and metal. Finally, each pattern is painted by Priscilla in color, to inspire painters. A Main Selection of the Crafters Choice Book Club.