Picture Frames in an Afternoon

Rating:
Summary: This book is a must have!
Review: "Picture Frames in an Afternoon" is as beautiful as it is informative. It includes many colorful pages of trendy picture frames. Each example includes specific how to instuctions with the materials you will need to make them. Not only is it packed full of ideas, but it offers very valuable information for anyone wanting to learn how to frame for themselves. Kaye Evans, CPF is a leading picture framing industry expert, with years of experience. You can count on the education you will receive from reading this book. It will be joy to read whether you are decorating, crafting, making a gift, or interested in preserving your own artwork by having it custom framed. Custom picture framers will love this book! I highly recommend it to everyone!

Rating:
Summary: Artsy Ideas - But Few Specifics
Review: I bought this book to help me start framing pictures and cutting matts. Visually, the book is attractive and it has lots of cute frame ideas.

However, when you start to read it to follow the instructions (such as making a double matt) - you realize that the instructions are vague and difficult to follow and that there is no explanation of terms.

The author only uses one type of matt cutter - and doesn't explain that very well.

The book may help you get ideas for funky frames - but is next to useless for getting meaningful instructions about how to make them!

I would pass on this (I wish I had)!

Rating:
Summary: Looks Good - Until You Start Reading
Review: I bought this book to help me start framing pictures and cutting matts. Visually, the book is attractive and it has lots of cute frame ideas.

However, when you start to read it to follow the instructions (such as making a double matt) - you realize that the instructions are vague and difficult to follow and that there is no explanation of terms.

The author only uses one type of matt cutter - and doesn't explain that very well.

The book may help you get ideas for funky frames - but is next to useless for getting meaningful instructions about how to make them!

I would pass on this (I wish I had)!

Rating:
Summary: easy, informative, and fun!
Review: I saw this book at Michael's art supply and craft store. This book is not only informative, but it has easy to follow steps with pictures to show you the end product. Each item gives you the list of materials needed and gives you step by step instructions to help you put your picture frame together. It's easy, it can be done in an afternoon, and it's fun! I used it to make a birthday gift for my friend and boy is she impressed. Impress your loved one today! =)

Rating:
Summary: easy, informative, and fun!
Review: I saw this book at Michael's art supply and craft store. This book is not only informative, but it has easy to follow steps with pictures to show you the end product. Each item gives you the list of materials needed and gives you step by step instructions to help you put your picture frame together. It's easy, it can be done in an afternoon, and it's fun! I used it to make a birthday gift for my friend and boy is she impressed. Impress your loved one today! =)

Rating:
Summary: Artsy Ideas - But Few Specifics
Review: This book was a big disappointment to me. If you want to get some great ideas on creating funky - artsy frames then you should consider it.

However, if you want instuctions on how to make mats and frames in an afternoon (as the title would suggest) then look elsewhere.

The instructions on measuring and calculating mats sizes are cursory. The instructions on cutting a double mat (the only real set of basic instructions in the book) are unnecessarily complex and arcane. The author fails to explains terms and, probably because she knows her subject too well, assumes simple but important knowledge of the reader(e.g. which is the front mat - the side closest to the art or the viewer?).

If you want a 'how-to' book, I would recommend you pass. If you want to get ideas on interesting framing projects (collages and multimedia), then consider getting this.