The Artist
In four decades of writing about art books, this is only the second one I have seen that is about the well-established practice of painting stones. I may have missed a few smaller ones, but it's not something that's troubled the mainstream. Where the previous one (also published by Search Press) concentrated on animals, this takes a general approach that offers the opportunity to suit subject matter to shape. While Michelangelo's remark about finding out what's in the block might be taking it a bit too far, the principle is not dissimilar. The book is project-based, something bedevilled by the now de rigeur funky typeface used for the headings. The materials list is clear and concise and the stage instructions are very much to the point. The illustrations are sharp and well-sized, which is to be welcomed, and you should have little trouble producing results like the examples Marion provides.
Machine Knitting Monthly
Getting started doesn't need expensive materials or complicated techniques. These 20 fun designs use just a stone, some acrylic paints and varnish. Clear step-by-step instructions and beautiful photos are ideal for beginners or more seasoned artists and this is the perfect family craft.
Customer Review
The beauty of the front cover indicates the quality of the contents, every page filled with incredible photographs, all Marion's work.
For novices, through to real artists, the book is a true inspiration, vibrant, exciting, a step-by-step guide to achieving true pieces of art. The excitement of my granddaughters on seeing the book and the equipment I had bought, all listed clearly in the book, was a joy to see but it was at least an hour before we could get started. They were so entranced with the photographs they had to see each page first of all and then their personal thoughts of Marion had to be read and discussed. This is so much more than a guide, it is a thing of beauty in itself.
The three of us decided to start with the first design, the Ladybird which we sketched the basic design but then added our own decoration which the girls loved doing and achieved an excellent result.
The instructions are so easy to follow, very clear, and in simple language for all to follow.
I honestly cannot praise this book enough and am certain it is going to be referred to many, many times in our craft sessions. Painting stones has never been such fun. All three of us, 6-year-old, 9-year-old, and 73-year-old all gave it 10/10 and at £9.99 is one of the best value books I have owned.
