Book Nook: The Art of Hand Lettering

Dover Publications is releasing several art books this month that look like great titles depending on your interest.

Amazing Origami Boxes

In this guide, origami master Tomoko Fuse presents 20 original designs for origami boxes — some simple, others more complex, all made from a single sheet of paper. Beautiful, full-color photographs accompany step-by-step instructions and diagrams for a splendid variety of completely functional boxes. They range from conventional square and rectangular shapes to those in the form of a bird, a basket, a cat's head, a flower, and other shapes. By varying the type of paper and color combinations, folders can create an endless variety of effects. Suitable for origami enthusiasts of all skill levels, this guide promises hours of creative joy.
 

Inspired Shawls

Knitters of all skill levels will rejoice in this colorful collection of 15 original shawl patterns. These stylish, versatile designs will complement any outfit, formal or casual, while offering the warmth and comfort of a cloak. Author Laura Zukaite was inspired in the creation of these shawls by the vibrant handicraft traditions she observed during her South American travels. Beautiful full-color photographs illustrate the patterns, which feature herringbone and cable stitches, ruffles, stripes, geometrics, and other eye-catching motifs in an array of gorgeous, hand-dyed yarns. The diversity and abundance of designs guarantee that this book is one that knitters will turn to time and time again for an inspiring range of patterns.
 

The Art of Hand Lettering

Author Helm Wotzkow begins with advice on the tools necessary to hand-lettering. He then proceeds to a detailed discussion and analysis of roman majuscule and minuscule characters, the lettering upon which most styles are based. Both pen and brush lettering are covered. Subsequent chapters explore italic, gothic, script, and block styles of lettering as well as negative lettering, perspective lettering, and lettering on curves. Each chapter is illustrated with scores of examples of fine lettering executed by Wotzkow and his students. Rather than presenting a series of hard-and-fast rules, the author helps readers analyze existing forms, discover new techniques, and develop their own critical faculties.

I had a chance to review The Art of Hand Lettering. It's not a tiny book! It has a wide variety of lettering, and is suitable for people of all skill levels. My daughter was able to learn from it to make fancy lettering for posters and cards, but there are some challenging techniques even for adults or those experienced at lettering.

If you're interested in art or craft books of any type, check out the Dover Publications Store