Craft Focus - Oct/Nov (Issue 63)

92 craft focus state of the art THE ENCYCLOPEDIAS OF ART CLASSES Search Press is publishing a series of books for those who want to start learning to paint or brush up on their painting techniques. The four encyclopedias provide comprehensive guides to acrylic, oil, pastel and watercolour, and the series has recently been updated to give a visual directory of the techniques and guidance on how to use them. The books are prefect for artists of all skill levels, and an exhaustive reference covering a multitude of topics, offering the chance for artists to develop their own style. Each book retails at £12.99. Search Press +44(0)1892 510 850 sales@searchpress.com trade.searchpress.com BRAND NEW AMERICANA PREMIUM ACRYLICS COMING TO THE UK DecoArt has launched more than 50 colours in its new Americana Premium acrylics range. The medium-bodied formula is ideal for the hobbyist, crafter or artist at affordable price points. The satin-sheen formula has been created to work well on canvas. Its simplicity of design and use takes the intimidation factor out of fine art painting, and it’s ideal for lots of surfaces including wood, canvas, metal, leather, ceramic bisque, and paper. What’s more, the product provides excellent coverage, and is intermixable, light-fast, non-toxic and can be cleaned-up using soap and water. CREATE ORIGINAL BUDGET-FRIENDLY PIECES OF ART There are plenty of free project downloads like this Unicorn Ride Fine Art Canvas designed by PLA Schneider - a whimsical work of art with Americana Premium Acrylics. Projects include step- by-step instructions, templates, products, tools and equipment lists. For 100s of inspiring projects visit decoart.com . DecoArt is distributed by Country Love Crafts +44 (0)1235 861 700 sales@countrylovecrafts.co.uk countrylovecrafts.com NEEDCRAFT’S PAINTED LAMPSHADE KITS Something original has just landed in the world of art material. The Make & Paint Kit from the Dannells’ Needcraft Creative Kit range is easy to use and gives crafters the freedom to create a one-of-a-kind professional flame retardant lampshade with your own painted artwork in colours and effects of your choice. Included within the kit is a pre-laminated textile panel, which enables the user to create stunning effects using simple painting techniques such as dabbing, sponging, dragging, rag rolling, flicking, dry-brush, washing, stamps, block-printing and use of foam shapes. Make a pendant (ceiling) shade or a beautiful table lamp and see the fantastic decorative effects that can be created when lighting the room, as the designs take on an added dimension once lit. Alongside the wide variety of kits you can purchase, Dannells also stocks a beautiful range of non-toxic acrylic paints to use with your Make & Paint Kit. This fantastic selection comprises 23 purpose-mixed vibrant and striking colours, which are available at competitive prices. Needcraft Make & Paint Kits are also available as trade and workshop packs for easy stocking to retailers and workshop teachers. Dannells NeedCraft +44 (0)1992 700 311 info@dannells.com dannells.com