Woodshop Library

THE MASTER TECHNIQUES OF MARQUETRY, by Silas Kopf, is a how-to DVD or VHS that explores the many methods of marquetry decoration. Kopf, in his Hawaiian shirt, leads the viewer…

THE MASTER TECHNIQUES OF MARQUETRY, by Silas Kopf, is a how-to DVD or VHS that explores the many methods of marquetry decoration. Kopf, in his Hawaiian shirt, leads the viewer through marquetry fabrication, beginning with techniques that have been used since the 18th century. This well-presented DVD/VHS shows Kopf using these techniques — something that a viewer or reader cannot easily achieve by flipping through a book on the subject. While some of the techniques may seem complicated on the surface, Kopf is able to make the novice woodworker feel comfortable with basic inlay, bandings, double bevel sawing and other techniques. The DVD or VHS, available March 1, sells for $21.95. Contact: www.silaskopf.com

CARVING CLASSICAL STYLES IN WOOD, by Fred Wilbur, is a journey through carving techniques and historic periods of classic carvings. Discover how carving techniques and styles have changed from the Greeks to the Romans, through the Renaissance and Neoclassical periods, and how details from each era can be applied to modern woodworking. Wilbur presents detailed carving instructions and color diagrams to bring together all of the classic elements to create chests, benches and cabinets. From commentary on the history of carving to a practical guide that woodworkers can use, this book should please the most avid woodcarvers and interest students of art. The 176-page softcover sells for $19.95. Contact: Sterling Publishing Co., 387 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10016-8810. Tel: 212-532-7160. www.sterlingpub.com

GREENE & GREENE: CREATING A STYLE, by Randell L. Makinson and Thomas A Heinz, studies the style of brothers Charles and Henry Greene, the 20th- century architects and designers. The Greenes' style — one defined by solid horizontal lines — is covered from all angles. The authors survey house blueprints, construction materials (including siding, shingles, masonry, and timber), and how the architects planned and designed interior spaces. The book presents the Greenes' plans along with 60 color photos, layout descriptions of each home, and information about how they developed different sites and projects. The interior design section will draw in any person interested in room layout and woodworking details. Check out the Greenes' all-wood interiors, which exude warmth and project a rich glow. Furniture and stained glass windows are also featured in the design portion of the book. The 96-page hardcover sells for $19.95. Contact: Gibbs Smith, P.O. Box 667, Layton, Utah 84041. Tel: 801-544-9800. www.gibbs-smith.com

MAKING DIMENSIONAL WOOD PLAQUES, by Patrick Spielman and Robert Hyde, is a how-to title that explains in well-demonstrated detail how to make dimensional wood plaques and wall art. Spielman and Hyde start right at the beginning, laying out and teaching all the skills needed to make a dimensional plaque. After the authors cover the basics, the well-thought--out project plans move from introductory projects to intermediate and very advanced pieces, including landscapes and ocean-view plaques. The 160-page softcover sells for $17.95. Contact: Sterling Publishing Co., 387 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10016-8810. Tel: 212-532-7160. www.sterlingpub.com