With knowledge passed down from centuries ago, the presence of traditional crafts such as spoon carving, leather working, and knife making is becoming more and more pronounced in contemporary culture and on platforms such as social media and ecommerce. As the pressures of a fast-paced, modern-day life weigh on people, many seek solace in more manual, artful practices that take us out of our selves and produce something beautiful and useful. Forge & Carve looks at twenty crafters and how and why they create the items they do. From basket weaver to blacksmith, meet some of the talented people behind this revival of time-honoured techniques and discover how they make a living from their artistry. Admire their craftsmanship; share their enthusiasm; and learn from their philosophy.
Not what I was expecting, this is not a DIY book, this is a collection of crafters' bibliographies. How they came to the craft, what tools they use, a look at their workshops and an overview of their methods. Lots of photographs, more than 50% of the book, so enjoy the eye candy. Also since most of the people covered are from outside North America, there are some odd products like the trug, a special wooden basket. A fun read once sort of thing, but not a keeper.
What a book! This handsome and well-photographed volume is a loving look at the increasingly lost art of working with your hands. Perfect for anyone who has always wanted to make, but didn't know where to start. Like having Dad pass down his wisdom, without all the swear words when he hammers his own thumb.