Mosaic Techniques & Traditions: Projects & Designs from Around the World

Creating mosaic art is an interesting field - it can be both highly technical and joyfully simple. Sonia King's book is by far the best I've encountered at bridging those two ends of the continuum; she discusses the properties of materials used (necessary to know so that your stuff will stick to your other stuff and not fall apart), the wide range of materials available now that can be utilized in successful mosaicking, and step-by-step how-to, but also makes it very clear that this is a field wide open for your own experimentation and self-expression. Maximum info, minimum rules - wahoo, what more could you want?

And beautiful! Never mind whether or not you ever intend to cement a shard of glass to backing - the wonderful photos in this book make it well worth owning for anyone that appreciates art. She covers both historic and contemporary works with well-photographed pictures and in sufficient detail that the truly obsessed can examine them essentially tile by tile. Just looking through this book is inspiring, whatever your aesthetic sense or medium of expression. It will get your creative juices flowing, and once you are inspired it will lead you through the steps to create beautiful works of your own.


A "Must Have" Mosaic Book!!   December 9, 2003
Mosaics By Maria (North Carolina)
33 out of 34 found this review helpful

I have over 50 books about mosaics and this is by far my favorite. It covers many different styles and the instructions are clearly written and very easy to follow. Sonia King is known throughout the mosaic community as an expert and this book is a great showcase of her vast knowledge. A MUST HAVE for beginners and veteran mosaicists alike!


THE BEST! BUY IT NOW!   December 9, 2003
27 out of 28 found this review helpful

This amazing book has EVERYTHING. Is it a gorgeous coffee table book- or an easy to read, invaluable 'how to'? It's both- and so much more. Expert instruction- with proven tips that even the most experienced mosaicists will learn from- and will save beginners untold hours of frustration. The most extensive colllection of contemporary mosaics I've ever seen assembled in one place-- (many that I've never seen published anywhere else)- all beautifully photographed. I dare you not to be inspired! Stop reading now... and buy this book!


"E" is for Essential   December 6, 2003
Nancie T M Pipgras
15 out of 15 found this review helpful

If you have two books on your mosaic shelf, this one, along with Emma Biggs' "Encyclopedia of Mosaic Techniques" is what you want. Not only does it deliver an incredibly comprehensive catalogue of classic and contemporary mosaics from around the world, but Ms. King generously shares many of the secrets, tips, and techniques that have made her a leader in the mosaic art world. Like Biggs, King is an original -- taking this art form to new levels by mixing materials, designs, and methods in ways not seen before.

The projects showcased are both delightful and instructional. You'll be able to work from start to finish on any of them without those nagging uncertainties that plague one when approaching a new medium. I've bought plenty of books on mosaics and started into something only to stop at some point and go "Huh?" Not with this book. Ms. King has translated her years of work as a mosaic instructor into useful, easy to understand, and thoughtful information.

Last, but not least in a list of the book's attributes is just how much fun it is to read. If you're like me, you've fallen asleep while wading your way through "The History of Mosaics" sections in a lot of books. You will not find that the case here. Ms. King writes from the heart and shares her love of this art form in a genuine voice. Imagine having your best friend go on vacation to explore mosaics and then come back and share their excitement with you. That's what this book offers.

I could have saved hundreds of dollars if Ms. King had just published this two years ago! Buy and enjoy!


A Wonderful Book, It's One to Buy   April 4, 2004
18 out of 19 found this review helpful

This book, along with "The Encyclopedia of Mosaic Techniques", is a must for you whether you are beginning mosaics or have some expertise. The background material provides enough information to give the reader an appreciation of the historical, as well as artistic, perspective on the art. The technical information is sufficient to allow the reader to further their craft. Definitely a must have!