Printing (Step by Step)

Michelle Powell studied design and display at Gloucestershire College of Arts and Technology before going on to train as a teacher at Bath College of Higher Education. She majored in printing and papermaking and graduated with a degree in teaching art. Previously editor of Practical Crafts and Scrapbook Magic magazines, Michelle is now a full time craft project designer and author. Michelle is currently building her own house with her partner Christian.

Reviewed with Judy Balchin's Papier Mache.

Gr. 4-7. Clear, attractive, and thorough, these titles in the new Step-by-Step series combine easy-to-follow projects with interesting background on the crafts. An introductory spread sets the art forms in historical context: Papier Mache touches on the surprisingly varied ways the craft has been used over the centuries, including its application in architecture, boat design, and furniture. Printing briefly traces the medium back to Egypt and mentions various printing methods, although it does not distinguish between relief prints, intaglio, etc. The crafts that follow are appealing and easily replicable, with crisp photos of each stage of assembly. Teachers looking for classroom art projects or kids with craft inclinations will find a wealth of excellent ideas here. More titles are listed in the Series Roundup. Gillian Engberg
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