Susan Beal is well-known in the craft world, and is the author of five books. She is active at craft events and online, writer of the popular blog West Coast Crafty. Beal has also created a blog for this book specifically — the World of Geekcraft includes photographs of people making her designs, including what appear to be actual teenagers! BEAL, Susan. World of Geekcraft: Step-by-Step Instructions for 25 Super-Cool Craft Projects. 155p. Adult/High School — Beal’s introduction declares, “We’ve come a long way since ‘geek’ meant a carnival sideshow freak,” which sets the playful tone of this book. To celebrate the geek in all of us, the author has pulled together 25 projects from a variety of crafters organized Read more…

Today we review a gorgeous book that introduces the best of paper cutting artistry today. This is not a how-to manual, but it may well inspire teens to take it up. If they do, they will find information, instruction and examples on the internet. In her introduction, Natalie Avella offers a piece on the current state of paper cutting, including the fact that the internet has significantly increased its visibility and popularity. HEYENGA, Laura. Paper Cutting: Contemporary Artists, Timeless Craft. 176p. photos. bibliog. notes. Chronicle. 2011. pap. $27.50. ISBN 978-0811874526. LC number unavailable.   Adult/High School– Interest in paper crafts is on the rise as evidenced by the plethora of blogs, exhibitions, and online shops that Read more…

“Arnold Grummer has been making paper for more than 30 years, first as a faculty member of the Institute of Paper Chemistry, then as curator of the Dard Hunter Paper Museum, and currently as the President of Greg Markim Inc. He has written four books and dozens of articles on paper science and paper crafting. He teaches preschoolers, FBI forensic scientists, printers, artists, and corporate executives about the miracles of fibers and hydrogen bonding in paper.”–from his website. Such an interesting bio! Grummer’s new book releases tomorrow. For teens who enjoy the creative process, this is a high-interest title. The book is a an attractive size and shape, with a terrific variety of page layouts, bright Read more…