It has been too long since my last mini book tour and I am so excited for this next one! For those that did not catch it last time, I received a handful of books over the holidays that were so awesome, I decided I would have to do a mini book tour of each (complete with pictures and my thoughts). I am only on my second tour and already have big plans… I have a lot of wonderful books that I’ve collected over the years and have had so much fun so far, I’ve decided that even after the holiday gift books run dry, I will continue my mini book tours. I’ve got bookshelves full of books that I think you guys may enjoy, so why not?
Anyway, on to today’s tour… There are probably a mere handful of people (that buy/ make handmade goods) who have not heard of the book Handmade Nation: The Rise of DIY, Craft, and Design. For those that take pride in purchasing handmade over mass-produced items, this book is a treasure. The book features some of your favorite artists and makers, showcases their work, and gives a little info about each DIYer as well.
The book is broken down into regions and features 4-5 people from each region for a total of 24 features. Each artist/artisan has a one page intro. The topic varies from schooling to experience to opinions on the DIY movement. Then there are 3-5 pages of images (studio shots, actually work, etc). Amongst the features, there are a few short essays that address various craft issues.
My favorite part of this book, aside form all the wonderful photographs, would have to be the timeline at the beginning of the book that takes the reader through DIY culture from 1994 to 2007. It was neat seeing everything crammed in to a (hand-drawn) timeline. I purposely left it out of the pictures…You’ll just have to pick up a copy to see for yourself.
Overall, I think the book is great and certainly worth the $25 (or $16 on Amazon). If I were being critical though, I would say that I wish there were more features on lesser-known crafters and artists to keep me engaged. And I would have loved to see an interesting book binding method utilized to further drive home the “craft feeling” of the book. But that’s just me. I am sure so many of you have read this book and I am really curious to know what you thought. If you have an opinion on the Handmade Nation book, leave a comment here and tell me about it. I would love to hear form you.
To buy the Handmade Nation book, click here.
6 comments | Click here to reply
I think this book is really amazing! I too would have loved to learn more about lesser known artists and crafters, but I love the interviews that are included. Plus, I believe this book is just a continuation of the documentary (which is just being premiered in various cities now). I am very much looking forward to attending the premier in NYC next week!
Ashley Anna BrownWhere will you tour be taking you?
StaceyI just got my copy a couple of weeks ago. I can’t believe I just heard about it. It’s a really neat book with beautiful and inspiring pictures. I guess the only thing I wish it had was more advice for up and coming crafters. I’m in need of a lot of info these days. I’ve been trying to find the documentary. It looks great!
Ann FlowersI’ve only had a chance to flip through this book, but I definitely intend on purchasing it! I do agree with your critique of it. Showcasing lesser known artists would have beeen really great, as well as a binding method or some feature that made the book feel more handmade.
Brittany NoelWill you be making a stop in Philadelphia? We would love to have you.
AryonWhat a nice surprise to my reader this morning. I too love the Handmade Nation book.
rose