Drawing on the timeless appeal of Celtic art and design, which has attracted artists and craft workers for centuries, this book shows how Celtic themes can be applied to a range of contemporary crafts. Beginning with Celtic illumination, you are guided through the intricacies of Celtic design, learning how to construct and decorate a selection of knotwork, spiral, key and zoomorphic patterns. The next chapter covers the basic principles of Celtic lettering and decoration, and this is followed by chapters on jewelery making using Celtic knotwork designs, glass painting and paper crafts.The materials and equipment needed are carefully explained, and there are clear, step-by-step instructions guiding you through a broad range of projects. This is a fantastic practical resource that will appeal to anyone inspired by the world of the Celts, whether they are absolute beginners who wish to learn a new craft or more experienced craft workers who want to learn more about Celtic design.

Reviews

Myshelf.com: Celtic art, with its interlaced patterns, fabulous beasts and love of bright colors is enjoying a period of particular popularity at the moment. Here is a whole book of projects where you can paint, draw and craft all manner of items in the Celtic style. This compendium brings together projects from five earlier books plus a few new and revised pieces. Celtic art is different from most other styles in that it has to be constructed rather than just drawn, and this technique has to be learned before anything else can happen. There are some relatively easy to follow methods showing how this can be done (although bear in mind that this is a huge topic) with rulers and math instruments . I say relatively because this is not a simple style to construct and to do it fluently would require a very large tome indeed. But you can make a decent fist of it with this book, even attempting some of the advanced zoomorphic work if you have progressed that far. Having mastered the basics the book goes on to show you how calligraphy Celtic style can be done, as well as applying the methods to glass painting and papercrafts. A departure from drawing and coloring is present too in the section dealing with knot tying. Anybody looking for a challenge and something a bit different won't be disappointed with this book, although the purchase of at least one additional book on the constructing side of things would be advisable. Karenplatt.co.uk: Celtic themes never go out of fashion. They are intricate, intriguing, inspirational and can be used innovatively. This fantastic 192-page colour book is a showcase for some of the best crafters who use celtic design in their work. The front cover gives some ideas as to what to expect inside. The book is actually divided into five chapters on illumination, calligraphy, jewellery, painting and paper. In each chapter you will find information on materials and equipment, the basic principles applicable to that particular craft area. Examples are given of the craft and then the demonstrations show you how it is done. This book is so beautifully produced with the clearest of examples and how-to-demonstrations. The use of celtic symbols and lettering is exquisite, this is truly inspirational. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys this type of work and who is inspired by Celtic themes. It is very reasonably priced and very useful. Drawing on the timeless appeal of the Celts, this book brings together a broad range of contemporary crafts and shows you how to apply Celtic art and design to jewellery making, glass painting and paper crafts. Vibrant designs, stunning projects and clear step-by-step photography make this a rich and inspiring resource for craft workers of all abilities. Celtic designs are easy to convert to punchcard or electronic patterns, machine embroidery motifs and will also inspire those of you who make jewellery. A great source of colour and inspiration.-Machine Knitting Monthly