Book Description
More than 200 authentic Celtic motifs, ideal for myriad uses, include elaborate spirals and weaves, exotic birds, horned beasts, mermaids, and other fanciful creatures. This outstanding collection of distinctive designs features a rich and diverse variety of patterns, which can be used as borders or individually.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent source for ideas.......2007-10-05
This is an excellent source of design ideas. I have recently started working in polymer clay and hope to start also with metal clay, so I was casting about for ideas and came across this book and CD of Celtic art motifs.
I am very fond of the basic knotted designs of the Halstadt culture which tends to be very curvilinear geometric, and over half of the designs in this book are Halstadt in style (as opposed to the later La Tène period with designs that incorporate stylized animals into the Celtic knot motif. For those who prefer the latter, check Celtic Designs in the same collection.)
The CD was easily installed on my computer, easy to open and navigate. It took me a little time to refamiliarize myself with the clip art style. I haven't used it since it came on floppy disks! This was very much easier to do.
Celtic Design Cd - excellent buy!.......2007-07-09
This was a great purchase for me. I have really enjoyed creating with the designs. There are many variations to choose from and I have used it a lot!
Great for design.......2007-04-03
I needed to get this book for some wedding designs I was making up. The pictures are great there are lots of different designs and they have them in all different file formats. Perfect for Graphic Design.
Celtic designs.......2007-01-04
No need for a scanner with the cd-rom. I use these for scrollsawing patterns.
Honestly represented and fairly priced.
Book Description
An indispensable, step-by-step guide to drawing a wide variety of Celtic designs - for artists and crafters working in all media.
Starting with an illustrated introduction to the Celts and the development of Celtic design, the author places the book's designs into their historical context.
The following chapters examine each of the main Celtic patterns in turn: knots, spirals, key patterns, animals and beasts, and Celtic lettering. Each chapter opens with a large colour illustration to inspire readers in ways of incorporating the design into their own work. This is followed by a short introduction to the range of patterns that fall into this design category, along with photos of Celtic artefacts. The rest of the chapter consists of 16 design pages, each containing a specially commissioned step-by-step artwork for readers to follow. Beautiful to look at, and exquisitely executed in themselves, each artwork has been carefully constructed so that readers can follow its build up from start to finish with no possibility of error. The chapter on Celtic lettering contains a specially commissioned double-page artwork of the Celtic alphabet for readers to copy, and is followed by instructions on how to embellish each of the letter forms in Celtic styles.
Customer Reviews:
MUY BUENOS DISEÑOS.......2007-09-13
MARAVILLOSO LIBRO Y UNA GRAN VARIEDAD DE DISEÑOS PARA CREAR UNA SUPER OBRA DE ARTE
A great addition to Celtic design!!.......2004-01-03
This is a handsome volume with not just exciting step by step guides to drawing Celtic designs but also some wonderful photographs of carvings, illustrated manuscripts, etc., and fascinating text by David James of the history of the Celts and their art. I've never seen a book quite like this - it really gives one an incentive to try the knots, spirals, birds and other designs. Vitor Gonzalez' art work is always magnificent.
Book Description
A new step-by-step guide to the most popular form of Celtic design.
Celtic knotwork is the single most widely appealing form within the rich repertoire of Celtic design. Aidan Meehan's new book provides step-by-step instruction for anyone who wants to master the traditional methods of freehand Celtic knot design and then progress to designing fresh knotwork patterns and variations.
First, Meehan carefully and clearly explains how to draw the basic knot. Once that technique has been mastered, Meehan shows how to create designs with more complex knots, and how to draw border layouts. The book takes you through every step of the process, and exercises at the end of each unit ensure that you have mastered the techniques before you proceed to the next stage. 2843 illustrations.
Customer Reviews:
Much easier than the Bain books.......2006-09-03
I had a few books by George and Ian Bain but could never figure out what they were trying to get at. This book finally broke it down in a way I could understand. Now that I know the basic technique, I have expanded to all sorts of interesting knots. I can also go back to my Bain books and figure out where the break lines are so I can reproduce those knots without driving myself crazy.
I agree with the other reviewers that at first the system seems a bit complicated, but the break-line and center-line drawing methods in this book have made it really easy for me to freehand knots on anything. I like not being a slave to clip art or stencils. I've gone to those pottery painting places and just plopped a gridwork of dots out and then penciled out my outline on uneven or unusual shapes. When I'm in meetings, I doodle knots on scratch paper.
I gave the book four stars instead of five because I bailed out after 2/3 of the book, when it got to making corners, 3-cord and 5-cord plaits. After I understood the basic method, I figured out how to turn corners all by myself. The 3-cord and 5-cord plaits aren't as interesting to me because they can't be used in standalone knots. Also, Meehan tends to document every single variation on a knot even if it's not very pretty.
I definitely recommend this as a way to train your brain. I am hoping to find a similar book that makes it easier to do triangular and circular knots.
Very useful book.......2006-01-27
Agree with the reviewer below; the construction methods can seem a bit complex. But this ain't clip art, and the meditation needed to grasp the framework is part of why we're doing this particular form of art in the first place, no?
Even as a straightforward source of material to adapt to your own artwork (I work at a scale of roughly 1/4" to 1'), it's rich. I love the pages of permutations.
I think this is my third favorite Meehan (fils?) book, after Knots and Spirals.
Knot that difficult.......2003-05-21
In a day when computer programs can generate knotwork and clip-art sources for Celtic art abound, it is refreshing to see a new and serious effort being made to train the hand, eye and mind in the skill and understanding of this art form. The technique is interesting in an historical sense because it shows how human hands could accomplish 'the work of angels' and it is also of great value to the modern hand-craftsman who wishes to continue in this tradition. The method of knotwork construction that Meehan teaches is remarkable for a reason that the author only casually mentions. This is that the layout marks are absorbed into the finish piece. An artist working in permanent ink, as did the medieval scribes who illuminated such masterpieces as the Book of Kells, after they have mastered the technique, can draw complicated knots without erasing or leaving messy layout marks. The book begins with a series of three grids, illustrated by dots and lines. These are necessary to illustrate the system, but unfortunately may give the reader the impression that the system is overwrought. Perhaps the author says a bit more than is needed at first, because the system is pretty easy to use once you understand it. In fact, by thoroughly illustrating the simplest knots in relationship to the grids in the first lessons, Meehan is making it possible (if the student perseveres) to layout more complicated knots with an economy of effort and ink. I highly recommend the book, but with the caution that the first lessons require patience. Had he cut to the chase without quite so much preliminary analysis I would gladly give it 5 stars. Stephen Walker
Book Description
A comprehensive design source book of all types of Celtic spiral designs by leading exponent of Celtic art, Courtney Davis.
The 101 spiral designs cover the whole history of Celtic design from the earliest examples found on rocks and ancient stone monuments to Courtney Davis's own celebrated modern interpretations. With spiral designs from the famous Celtic manuscripts such as the Lindisfarne Gospels and the Book of Kells and from intricate Celtic jewelery.
The 101 spiral designs are all hand painted by Courtney Davis and printed in full color. Each is accompanied by a black and white version of the same image on the adjacent page-- perfect for scanning or photocopying for use on an art, design or craft project. The introduction gives a brief history of the Celts and an explanation of the birth and development of their artistic style with particular relation to spiral designs.
Book Description
This remarkable series of practical, step-by-step guides brings together the most comprehensive collection ever published of Celtic designs and decorations and provides an invaluable source of inspiration for artists, designers and craftspeople of all kinds. Both freehand and canonical geometric methods are explained and detailed instructions are given on drawing and decorating letters in an authentic Celtic style, as well as on creating your own illuminated manuscript pages.
Customer Reviews:
Very interesting.......2006-03-20
Getting to know how this art was born, I strongly recommend to those who appreciate Celtic Art
Knotwork.......2006-03-14
I have not yet drawn knots from this book, but I have worked through Celtic Knots-Mastering the Traditional Pattern which I recommend at a first book for beginners like myself. However, I had read this book and can't wait to start drawing its knots.
If you're only buying one.......2006-01-19
If you're only buying one of Meehan's books, get this one. It's earned its cost 100 times over in helping me design my own knotwork patterns. The history is interesting on the first read; I'm not working on (nearly) priceless vellum so I can afford rough drafts on scrap paper and don't follow the formal construction methods. But there's plenty of material to serve as a starting point.
The collection of Trinity knots in the back is fabulous--try them in balloon art for a change of scale.
The Good the Bad and the Ugly.......2006-01-03
This book will show you how to make Celtic knots and it does contain detailed diagrams, however what this book shows you in 20 pages can be easily shown in just a couple of diagrams while at other times the book shows you in just a couple of diagrams what it should have shown you in 20 pages...So there is alot to be desired.
"What a tangled web we weave".......2002-11-16
Several years ago I was having a guitar made and wanted to use a Celtic theme for some of the inlay work. As usual, I discovered that this was a more complicated task than I had originally thought. Not all places on a guitar are equal, and trying to find a set of ideas that would work as a whole is almost as challenging as designing an illuminated manuscript page.
I my frantic search through the catalogs for books that provided more than pretty pictures, I stumbled across several volumes by Aidan Meehan, including this one on knotwork. Meehan's focus is as much on design as it is on imitation, which was perfect for what I was trying to do. The book is done in clean legible calligraphy with countless illustrations of both technique and results, making it a bit of an artwork itself.
Whether 'secret' or not, Meehan presents knots, their creation, and use in fine and methodical detail. He works through some important knots, then turns to panel design, plaitwork and spiral knots. Probably much more than I will ever need, but making this a valuable resource for the artist and the historian.
Average customer rating:
- The best step by step book on Celtic Design!
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Celtic Spirals & Other Designs
Sheila Sturrock
Manufacturer: Sterling
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Binding: Paperback
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Draw Your Own Celtic Designs
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101 Celtic Spirals (101 Celtic)
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101 Celtic Knotwork Designs (101 Celtic)
ASIN: 1861081596 |
Book Description
Begin with basic circles and develop two-, three-, and four-ribbon spirals. Then square off spirals to form frets and mazes and fashion key patterns from easy-to-draw triangles. Color in brilliant tones, following tips on traditional Celtic style; make a bold effect by blackening the background or try another method for adding texture; and apply the patterns to applique, batik, calligraphy, and more. “Inspiring...a great source.”—Bead & Button.
Customer Reviews:
The best step by step book on Celtic Design!.......2002-02-26
After purchasing many Celtic design books, this is the best book with detail instructions and the proces of Celtic Knotwork. If you are a teacher you will enjoy this book because it gives several examples on how to create spiral works and knot works. Is easy for students to understand and for a teacher to recreate. I will said after purchasing this book I really understood the whole process. I greatly recommend it!
Customer Reviews:
Great at what it does.......2006-01-19
If you want to learn the actual construction methods for Celtic knotwork, this is a good place to start. Much more thorough than some, and you get theory and methods that can be applied to anything, rather than a "here's how to draw this pattern, and by the way, it's copyrighted so you can't use anything like this in your own art" of one or two books about Celtic design by other authors.
I take a hint and make a design work on the fly, so the actual construction details are lost on me. Don't need the alphabets for the art I do. Love the pages of finished spirals.
An excellent book for those interested in Celtic Designs........2001-03-30
This is an excellent book for those looking to create celtic designs.
This book teaches you step and key patters, spirials, uncial script and how to layout manuscript pages.
The book is best used when accompianied by Aidan's other Celtic Design books. I have 7 of the books in this series and love them all!
All in all this is a great book for someone looking to create celtic designs.
A good start.......2000-09-22
Actually this book provides enough information to make the first steps into celtic design. I think it is the best book for beginners, but there lies the problem. Every time you try out something, you will soon reach a point where you need additional information to proceed. So for beginners it is an excellent entry into the matter, but nothing more.
A great introduction to Celtic design.......1998-01-05
Covers the basic how-to of Celtic design, including step patterns, key patterns, spirals, uncial script calligraphy, and decorative letters. For more detailed information, see Meehan's other titles in the Celtic Design series. Includes plenty (258) of very well done black and white illustrations demonstrating the techniques described in the text.
Average customer rating:
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Celtic Spirals Handbook
Sheila Sturrock
Manufacturer: Guild of Master Craftsman
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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101 Celtic Spirals (101 Celtic)
ASIN: 1861083076 |
Book Description
Filled with 1,000 inventive patterns and a variety of styles and techniques, this handbook is simply perfect for creating authentic Celtic designs. Its combination of tried-and-true drawing methods, detailed templates, and easy-to-follow plotting instructions will make any beginner feel comfortable. Start with two- and three-ribbon designs, and once you have them mastered, try graceful all-over patterns where spirals are connected with C-curves and have multiple exit points; as well as beautiful pelta spirals; interwoven designs; fret maze and key designs; zoomorphics and anthromorphics; plant designs; and much more. Everything you need to know about materials and equipment is included, along with a special section on using color and pattern. A Selection of the Crafter’s Choice Book Club.
Book Description
Crafters of all skill levels need an extensive selection of motifs and patterns to applly to their work. This sourcebook provides a rich and varied source of superb quality Celtic motifs, all of which can be copied and applied to a range of crafts.
This Design library not only prvides a rich source of Celtic imagery, but also gives practical advice and inspirational tips on how to use them for any craft of your choice.
Chris Down was an architectural technician for eight years before becoming a freelance illustrator, specialising in Celtic art. His first set of Celtic cards in 1994. Since then, he has produced art for cards, window transparencies, mugs, coasters, jewellery boxes and wall plaques. To date he has supplied illustrations for over twenty books. Chris lives in Middle Woodford, near Salisbury.
Customer Reviews:
Nice variety of cross-stitch designs.......2003-09-15
This book contains a nice variety of cross-stitch designs and includes suggestions for both small and large projects. It is organized into easy-to-use categories such as "Childhood Days," "Holiday Memories," and "Special Days." Each section includes instructions for specific projects plus a variety of additional designs illustrating the same theme. The instructions are simple and easy to follow, and all of the designs can be adapted into other projects. However, it is important to note that not all designs are pictured, so it is sometimes hard to imagine how a finished project might look. Two basic alphabets are included for those designs that have words. Overall, this is a handy reference book for the creative cross-stitcher.
Well done Sue!.......2001-02-09
Sue Cook has come a long long way from her early, punchy but clumsy designs. Most British designers lack the boldness of American stitching, but Sue has managed to capture the bright and striking texture of good American design. If you like Donna Kooler, you'll like Sue Cook (not the early designs). If she continues to develop, we could have a mix of Kooler and Englebreit - now wouldn't that be something?? Literally hundreds of good, fun designs, a great resource well up there with the Kooler and Hawkins books. Thank you Sue!
Customer Reviews:
Marvels of Ancient Europe.......2002-12-13
Aidan Meehan has a great ability to combine solid art history with the never-ending fascination of Celtic artwork without putting the reader off with excess pedantry. In this book in particular, his historic discussions surprised me on several occasions. My initial belief that Celtic art as an isolated form is that of a rank amateur, and Meehan does a fine job of disabusing me and showing how Celtic decoration and illumination started with oriental influences which then mixed with Teutonic and Viking to create a beautiful synthesis.
Of course , the history is framed with Meehan's own renditions of the artwork, each with appropriate discussion of both their unique features and the interlinked development as Irish and Viking met first in conflict and then in trade. Since Meehan's primary audience is artists, he spends the best part of the book showing not just the patterns, but how they are formed and woven into a whole.
Aidan and Oisin Meehan's illustration and calligraphy are strong and clear, with some 220 illustrations. There is a great romance to these images, that has carried forward even into far more modern art. Aidan Meehan is one of those who have dedicated his life's work to keeping these traditions alive.
Celtic versus Viking art.......2000-03-31
I was thrilled to find this book, being of both Irish-Scots and Viking descent. Much of the art of the Gaels and the Norse is similar, due to both a common origin, proximity, raiding, and trading. I've had books on Viking art, harder to find than Celtic, and many on Celtic. But although there was great similarity in the designs, (and also resembles much of the Scythian art which brings us to anthropological discussions) I found nothing to discuss the differences until I found this book. As I discussed in 'Spiral Patterns' by Meehan, his books are delightful sources for the serious interest. He has a way of combining a historical study with the construction of the art that is simply delightful. My favorite in this book is the whimsical 'gripping beast' discussion. Otherwise, though it is hard to describe exactly how, by the end of the book I was not only exposed to a number of Viking designs that I had never seen before, but now able to tell the difference at a glance between the two art forms. The Viking form is less restrained than the Celtic art that reached its height in dreary volumes, the designs such as 'the early viking style' shown have a energetic and powerful energy then the overly tame knotwork. In addition there ARE some examples worth using as clip art, but the main point of the book is serious information as to the history and the meaning of the designs, which other books simply show.
The Dragon and the Griffin.......2000-03-29
This is an excellent book for those who are interested in Celtic art. As with all of the books by Aidan Meehan that I have read so far, this book is historically informative and provides easy to understand techniques for artists wishing to master celtic art or manuscript illumination.
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