Product Description
“Highly recommended!” – CHOICE

New Edition Offers Improved Framework for Understanding Polymers

Written by well-established professors in the field, Polymer Chemistry, Second Edition provides a well-rounded and articulate examination of polymer properties at the molecular level. It focuses on fundamental principles based on underlying chemical structures, polymer synthesis, characterization, and properties.

Consistent with the previous edition, the authors emphasize the logical progression of concepts, rather than presenting just a catalog of facts. The book covers topics that appear prominently in current polymer science journals. It also provides mathematical tools as needed, and fully derived problems for advanced calculations. This new edition integrates new theories and experiments made possible by advances in instrumentation. It adds new chapters on controlled polymerization and chain conformations while expanding and updating material on topics such as catalysis and synthesis, viscoelasticity, rubber elasticity, glass transition, crystallization, solution properties, thermodynamics, and light scattering.

Polymer Chemistry, Second Edition offers a logical presentation of topics that can be scaled to meet the needs of introductory as well as more advanced courses in chemistry, materials science, and chemical engineering. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Polymer Chemistry 2nd ed by Hiemenz and Lodge
This 2nd edition is nearly a total rewrite.The fine structure of the first edition is greatly strengthened by the most recent advances in polymer science and crystal clear explanations of the important phenomena, especially in polymer physics. Worked exercises and challenging homework problems aid student learning.I have used all the major texts to teach introductory polymer science to seniors and also graduate students in chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry and biomedical engineering.Hiemenz and Lodge is the clearly the best. Polymer Chemistry, Second Edition

a good book for physical polymer science
As I have said in my title, this is an excellent book for introductory physical polymer science. Not that good for organic/synthetic polymer science.

Too wordy
This book of Paul Hiemenz' could have been almost halved without detriment to its content. I would not point this out if the language were engaging, but it is not.

Review of Hiemenz "Polymer Chemistry"
Classic text on polymer chemistry.Professors usually teach directly out of this book,and are excited to discover that it is back in print.Though "Polymer Chemistry" has not been updated since 1984, by no means is it outdated.Intended for senior-level undergraduate or beginning graduate level, this text covers introductory terminology, basic chain dynamics, basic rheologicalcharacterization, crystallization, thermodynamics of the glassy state, synthesis, reaction kinetics, and solution thermodynamics.

This book is written from the chemist's perspective and meant as an introduction.Chemists wishing to specialize in the organic synthesis aspect may also benefit from "Principles of Polymerization" by Odian.Materials engineers would likewise turn to a polymer physics text and keep Hiemenz as a reference.

While this book is indispensible as a student text, its format isn't conducive to leisurely reading.A professional wishing to brush-up on skills may benefit from other texts. ... Read more

Product Description
Appropriate for upper level undergraduate and graduate level courses in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and Materials Science and Engineering. It is also useful as a reference for Engineers and Chemists working in the synthetic plastics and chemical process industries.This book presents a comprehensive, up-to-date review of the current state of polymer science and technology and emerging areas of growth. In addition to synthetic polymer chemistry, the book also covers the properties of polymers in solutions and in the melt, rubber, and solid states, surveying all important categories of plastics. It includes detailed coverage of both polymer processing principles and the latest polymer applications in a wide range of industries--including medicine, biotechnology, chemicals, and electronics. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Polymer Science and Technology - Joel R Fried
Excellent Book. I use it for my grad class. Covers most topics that are required to gain a sufficient introductory knowledge in polymer science. I would recommend it to undergrads as well as grad students.

Easy intro to polymers
This textbook provides a good introduction to polymers, their processing, applications, and properties.The book assumes minimal prior knowledge of polymers, and begins with a simple intro to properties such as glass transition temperature, molecular weight, thermoplastic versus thermoset.

Electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties of polymers are discussed and related to the structure and composition of the material.

The book is organized very well.It includes dedicated chapters on synthesis, processing, degradation, and for the different classes of polymers.Each chapter is short and can stand alone by itself.A short list of references is also provided at the end of each chapter, and these are organized according to the different sections in each chapter.

The level of the text is appropriate for juniors or seniors in engineering or chemistry.The math is kept at a simple level; nothing harder than integral calculus, and there are a lot of pictures and diagrams.The amount and scope of information also warrants purchasing this as a general reference for polymers.

I recommend this book for those who are learning about, or teaching about polymers. ... Read more

Product Description
With 15 step-by-step projects, Polymer Clay Jewelry teaches readers how to create sophisticated and unique jewelry pieces with the popular and versatile medium of polymer clay. Professional teacher Debbie Jackson presents a variety of creative jewelry-making techniques broken into four sections:-Additives and Embellishments-Textures-Liquid Polymer Clay-Canes

With a gallery of stunning creations shown at the end of each section, this guide will provide readers with the skills and creative spark they desire to craft pieces of their own. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Nice variety of ideas
This book offers some great projects and techniques.The pictures are beautiful and very detailed.The written instructions are very well done and easy to follow.The projects use many very simple techniques to create rather elaborate pieces that are very colorful and fun!

Best instructions
I own 10 polyclay books and have read many others.This is the best for instructions -- sometimes with pictures of every step.I liked the "ethnic" aspect because it's different from other books.-- probably easier for a beginner to make these projects look good, compared to some fancier or classic designs.Enormously helpful and applicable to any style of jewelry you prefer to make.
Ms. Jackson clearly has lots of experience teaching the techniques so she doesn't skip details of the process that can really trip you up.
This book tells you how to do practical finishing-- such as getting the elastic inside a bangle bracelet; such as how to attach two pieces together for a pendant; such as crimping wire in the clay before curing -- detailed explanations, with pictures, of how to securely attach a "finding".So many books tell you how to make canes--but not many show how to sand and polish.
Other books may be great eye candy but can lead to frustration as you try to duplicate the project.I need the step-by-step of this book if my pretty surfaces aspire to being real, wearable, useable objects or jewelry.
Incidentally also has projects using transparent liquid clay medium -- "cloisonne" pins -- tells how to laminate metal leaf so you can cut it up etc. for projects. Section includes instructions using Kato liquid medium as well as Sculpey TLS.Seems up to date in 2007.

Nice to see fingers of person of color in illustrations.Actually, nice to see fingers period because it helps understand the steps.
My only mild complaint is the artist uses too many non-polymer trinkets attached to some projects--looks good but not always available to me.On the other hand I really am freed up by the idea of attaching feathers, and now I know how!
I would have enjoyed more projects too.This author is tremendously welcome to the pantheon.And I hope she has another, longer book in the works.
PS if you want to do tiger or leopard skin patterns, it's here.

I love this book!
Debbie Jackson shows such wonderful style with her jewelry. I love the way she combines other media with polymer clay to create distinctive jewelry.

She really sparked my imagination! From her I learned the elegant look that can be achieved from layers of different textures and unexpected materials (such as cowrie shells and feathers).

This beautiful book with its gorgeous, huge photos will remain in my polymer clay library for years to come.

A cut above the rest
This is one of the most detailed books I have seen. Her projects are refined and this is the first time I have seen the back of jewelry pieces finished as well. This gives the projects a more polished and professional look. Like one of the reviews already stated, don't shy away from this book, because of the term "ethnic". There is enough really good information in this book, even if that is not your style. This book is refreshingly different and I currently have it from the library. I am going buy this for myself - a must have!

Loved It!!
I have been looking for polymer clay books that inspire me to do more with this medium. This book did the trick!! I borrowed it from the library and had to have it!! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (13)

Easier Than It Looks
This book's instructions are so easy to follow and the items are so much fun to make. It has a great selection of projects that can be used in every room of the dollhouse. I am new to polymer clay and this was the perfect introduction for me. I sold my first creations, three pumpkin patch pumpkins, on eBay within a week. My oven has been full of clay creations ever since I bought this book.

Making Doll's House Miniatures with Polymer Clay by Sue Heaser
This is a book good for beginner has step by step guide how to make the individual items.IT is a value for money book for beginner.

Making Doll's House Miniatures
My son usedhis sister's copy of this book and loved it.He asked for it for Christmas and I bought it and received itsoquickly, I was impressed.I can't wait to give it to him.It looks very impressive to me, also.

Great book!
The variety of projects in this book and the step-by-step explanations, make it a great resource for beginners and experienced miniature makers.
I would recommend this book to anyone who's interested in making their own dollhouse miniatures!

This is the most wonderful book
I made myself a miniature drugstore since I am a pharmacist and I had trouble finding things like mortars and cylinders.Thanks to this book I managed to make the most beautiful look-alike mortars with pestles and all, also a little turn-of-the-century (last century, of course) telephone. The directions are precise and you can really get what you are looking for (and I had never touched polymer clay in my life!) ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (24)

contemporary polymer clay works
This book shows many different versions of what can be done with polymer clay. It is not a how to book but rather shows some of what is possible. It would suit those working with polymer clay and those interested in 3D art or craft. A great book for inspiration

Amazing "Eye Candy"
A friend of mine who has been working in polymer clay for over thirty years, loaned me this book.Oh my goodness, what a collection of amazing talent.Such beautiful full color photography, and the subject matter is so varied: sculpture, jewelry, purses, boxes, vessels, wall hangings, and on and on.

I had to have my own copy, not just because of the "eye candy" through out, but because it is diffilcult to explain to people that have no knowledge of this art form, . . . just what is Polymer Clay?I am a new artist in this amazing medium, and when I talk to clients about this clay, I now have the perfect "show and tell" book to dazzle them with.

And yes, it is the perfect "coffee table" book.You'll see!

Nothing short of fabulous
Lark scores another A+ for their 400 and 500 series of craft books. I am incredibly picky about craft books I purchase and I couldn't be without this one. There isn't an instruction to be found...this isn't about polymer clay as a hobby and it isn't a book of projects or techniques, but it is an eye-popping, amazing collection of polymer clay art. Just five minutes leafing through the pages gives me enough inspiration to last weeks. In these pages you will see every conceivable technique and some that are so new and innovative, you'll be meeting them for the first time. Congratulations to Lark on another in this fabulous series.

amazing book
all the photo in the book represent THE perfect piece of art WITH POLYMER CLAY
the editing is great and i love every page in this book

INSPIRATION!
Although many wonderful polymer clay artists do not have pieces in this book (e.g. John Anderson's animals), the pieces/artists within the pages of this beautifully laid out book are truly insprirational.After doing a review on a recent book on polymer clay (PC) beads, I felt that I had to look through my other PC books and re-examined this treasure.No, it is not for beginners, and no there are no guidelines on how the artist made their piece(s), just a brief note on the title of the work, items used and maybe a few words by the artist on the piece.The photography of each piece is stunning.The creative process of PC artists today is utterly amazing and this book provides ideas on where one can go with their own work, if PC is the medium of choice.I also appreciate the pieces using other products in the piece (e.g. beads, metal, paper mache, feathers, wood, herbs, sand, etc.).PC canework by some of the artists is also incredible and trying to imagine how they came up with the pattern(s) is often mind-boggling.This makes an excellent coffee table book and for the PC artist, inspiration to strive towards excellency in this medium. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (17)

Good Intro to Caning
As newbie clayers, my daughter (9) and I have enjoyed this book together. While it is mostly about the construction of canes to get various effects, syndee holt makes it easy to understand (with humor!) and the photographs help immensely. We also got better info on basics like conditioning the clay & best methods for baking than from other resources we've used, and the gallery of projects is really firing our creative imaginations.

Fantastic Book
Syndee does a great job of teaching basic and more detailed ares of polymer clay work. I am not a beginner and loved the way she put the sections together helping a person step by step to creat wonderful designs. The examples help you to take the lessons further.

Very instructional!!!
I love polymer clay and I love books!!! But this book is really very instructional and I use it to lend to friends that want to learn how to work with polymer clay!! Very good!!

P9olymer Clay fir the first Time
Consise and to the point ---lots of good ideas wish had seen it sooner

Polymer Clay For the First Time-Book
I am very happy with this book.The seller shipped it fast and it's in excellent condition.I would definitely buy from them again! ... Read more

Product Description
This is a polymer physics textbook for upper level undergraduates and first year graduate students. Any student with a working knowledge of calculus, physics and chemistry should be able to read this book. The essential tools of the polymer physical chemist or engineer are derived in this book without skipping any steps. The book is a self contained treatise that could also serve as a useful reference for scientists and engineers working woth polymers. While no prior knowledge of polymers is assumed, the book goes far beyond introductory polymer textx in the scope of what is covered. The fundamental concepts required to fully understand polymer melts, solutions and gels in terms of both static structure and dynamics are explained in detail. Problems at the end of each chapter provide the reader with the opportunity to apply what has been learned to practice. The book is divided into four parts. After an introduction in Chapter 1, where the necessary concepts from a first cours on polymers are summarized, the conformations of single polymer chains are treated in Part 1. Part 2 deals with the thermodynamics of polymer solutions and melts, including the conformations of chains in those states. Part 3 applies the concepts of Part 2 to the formation and properties of polymer networks. Finally, Part 4 explains the essential aspects of how polymers move in both melt and solution states. In all cases, attention is restricted to concepts that are firmly entrenched in the field. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Great books!
If you are interested in biophysics and polymer, you should never miss it!
It is as great as the lecture given by the authors.

valuable
The book is an excellent introduction to statistical polymer physics.
Its great strength is that it offers a mathematical treatment of polymer
physics with a minimum of mathematics i.e. only dimensional analysis and simple
ordinary differential equations. In addition, one needs to have an introductory
course in equilibrium statistical physics (statistical thermodynamics).

It is valuable to both academics and industrial practitioners, since it represents
a very complete picture of polymeric solutions, gels and networks
given with remarkable intuition. Certainly it does not go deep into
more advanced analytic (e.g. functional integral or numerical approaches),
but it is a necessary background to these fields.

The only negative aspect of this book has nothing to do with the authors,
but with OUP that produce such difficult to use book formats. I do not
understand why the book has to be so large in dimensions making any
handling difficult and awkward. I hope that soon is reissued in a more
compact and usable format that is made for the joy of reading.

Awesome Book for the Physical Understanding of Polymeric Behaviour
From the equations of Flory-Huggins to the fractal nature of polymer confirmations, this book covers everything you need to know about the physical nature of polymers.

One of the best introductory polymer physics book
My title tells everything. This book is one of the best one if you are new to the field. You need to know Calculus, Thermodynamics and Statistical physics and then read through the pages. Not too detailed nor too brief. I suggest the book to seniors and grad level students.

Current and comprehensive textbook
Polymer Physics by Michael Rubinstein and Raplh Colby is a fascinating introduction to the realm of polymer statics, dynamics and phase behavior. It embodies the depth of Flory's classic text on Principals of Polymer Chemistry, classic delight of de Gennes' Scaling concepts in Polymers and the rigor of Theory of Polymer Dynamics by Doi and Edwards. The authors manage to do this with a textbook authority and clarity, which definitely makes this book a definite buy for anyone interested in polymer physics.

The book has four main sections. The first part talks about the polymer statics: ideal and real chains and how their size and size dependent properties are characterized. Then comes thermodynamics of polymer blends and solutions, which includes a discussion on polymer brushes and adsorption of chains. The authors devote the third section to networks and gels and this part includes a very thorough discussion of gelation, rubber elasticity and swelling. The last section is devoted to the polymer dyanmics, where chain models and polymer relaxation ideas are developed and discussed. The last two sections of the book cover topics which are of immense current interest, and have had original and critical contributions from the authors. Most highly recommended, both for beginners and for experts. ... Read more

Product Description
Fun, innovative jewelry ideas for popular polymer clay

* 25 beautiful projects--something for everyone
* Step-by-step instructions and clear how-to photos

Polymer clay is probably the most versatile, most enjoyable craft medium of them all. It can be sculpted, carved, molded, stamped, textured, sanded, and then baked in a regular oven. How easy is that? Now Polymer Pizzazz makes working with polymer clay even more fun and rewarding--by introducing beginners to basic tools and techniques, then presenting 25 beautiful jewelry projects. With clear step-by-step instructions and helpful color photography, anyone can learn to make bold, bright beads, playful fish-shaped pendants, elegant faux stone necklaces, and much more! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Polymer Clay Pazazz purchased from Amazon.com
Another great book that shows step by step how
to create these fabulous beads and jewelry from
Polymer Clay.

Polymer Pizzazz: 27 Great Polymer Clay Jewelry Pro
This looks like a super book.I haven't had time to try any of the projects yet but have looked through the book.It has some great inspirations.Instructions are thorough.

Great Collection of Magazine Articles
This is such a great book and a great concept.It's an entire book of the best of Polymer Clay magazine articles.I love it.I like that it includes easy to follow directions, and I think it would be a great addition to any Polymer Clay enthusiast.

Fun projects by a variety of talented artists.
I very much enjoy this book. The projects--by different polymer clay artists--are varied, and all are presented clearly with many photos. Even the projects showing jewelry I don't care for included techniques that are worth knowing and that can be applied in ways I do like. This book's a keeper!

A MUST HAVE FOR ALL CLAYERS!
This is an awesome book for clayers of all levels.I just love it.You won't be disappointed with this book.The pictures are beautiful, and the directions are so simple to follow....... ... Read more

Product Description
•A one-of-a-kind resource that shows polymer clay artists how to use historic design ideas in their work

• More than 30 exciting techniques and projects illustrated with clear step-by-step photos

• Features the work of today’s biggest names in polymer clay, including Donna Kato, Pier Voulkos, Kathleen Dustin, Ford + Forlano, and KLEW

Thousands of crafters have discovered that polymer clay is versatile, easy to use, and just plain fun. Now they can use this exciting medium to create remarkable new work inspired by the decorative arts of the past. Polymer Clay Creative Traditions lets both beginners and experienced artisans draw inspiration form painting and drawing, ethnic carving, quilting, ceramics, sculpture, glass, metalwork, and more. Thorough 300 stunning photographs and fascinating text, author Judy Belcher reveals how these influences can be exptessed in polymer clay. Introduction on the history and handling, plus tips and techniques throughout the book, make Polymer Clay Creative Traditions an invaluable guide to creating works of art that blend a great material of today with the greatest design ideas of yesterday. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

Great Book
This book is a great addition to any library. Plenty of projects and examples of professionals work that you could actually do. You can really get a lot of ideas to to create your own art work. I really like the book.

Needed help answered
Just started this technique.Very well illustrated and the photos will get you enthusiastic about the craft.Hope I get as good as these photos.

not what I expected
I should have paid more attention to the other 3-star review. I am behind the times and am pretty new to claying. (Right now I am interested in only jewelry.) While this is a beautiful book, perhaps it is more suited to those with more experience (or wider interests in clay.) The book cover features only jewelry and while the cover pieces do appear in the book, full directions for these pieces were not always included. In addition, many of the other pieces in the book are not jewelry (they are boxes, purses, wall art, free-standing sculpture) and those appealed to me less. Also, while the book does include some techniques and projects, overall it is more of a gallery-type book which I didn't necessarily expect given the book's title. The techniques and tips included are sometimes very basic, even for a newbie like me (making Skinner blends, different brands of clay require different firing temps, watch out for air bubbles)and at other times, the instructions for the specific faux techniques were very sparse (at least to me) or entirely absent. I would not have purchased this book had I seen what was in it first. However, I did get a few inspirations from it so all is not lost!

Interesting and fun...
but i think i wanted more instructions on the techniques. In at least one case, the instructions provided created alot of extra work and expense, at least for me, which is why i gave the book only 4 stars. But overall a good idea for a book and nice effort, which will provide many with new techniques and ideas.

I Love This Book!
This book has so many ideas and projects that if I never purchased another book, I would be busy the rest of my life! It is good for every level. it has good basic instructions as well as inspiring pictures.I love it! ... Read more

Product Description
Now in its second edition, this widely used text provides a unique presentation of today's polymer science. It is both comprehensive and readable. The authors are leading educators in this field with extensive background in industrial and academic polymer research.The text starts with a description of the types of microstructures found in polymer materials. This forms the basis of understanding some of the key features of the various mechanisms of homopolymerization and copolymerization that are discussed in following chapters. Also discussed in these chapters are the kinetics and statistics of polymerization with a separate chapter on the characterization of chain structure by spectroscopic methods.The next part of the text deals with chain conformation, structure and morphology, leading to a discussion of crystallization, melting and glass transition. The discussion then moves from solid state to solution properties where solution thermodynamics is introduced. This provides the basis for discussion of the measurement of molecular weight by various solution methods.The final chapter deals with mechanical and rheological properties, which are discussed from a phenomenological continuum approach and then in terms of a fundamental molecular perspective.Altogether, the text provides a comprehensive, lucid introduction to today's polymer science as a foundation to the R&D of polymeric materials. More than 200 schematics and other figures illustrate key concepts and important aspects of polymeric materials. The text will be useful as an update for polymer and other materials scientists in industry, and as an introduction to engineers working with polymeric materials who would benefit from a better understanding of polymer science basics. ... Read more

Product Description
Even the most dedicated crafters find themselves up against the clock in today's fast-paced society. That's why Fast Polymer Clay is such a must-have book--each and every featured project can be completed in under an hour. Popular author Sue Heaser shows readers how to make more than 50 stunning clay creations, including:Miniature dollhouse accessoriesFaux jade pendantMosaic barretteBookworm bookmarkInlay picture frameFridge magnetsStamped cards

Crafters will appreciate the complete step-by-step instructions, as well as Sue's best tips and tricks for beginning and advanced polymer clay artists. This ingenious guide includes everything readers need to fit more creativity and crafting into their busy lives. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Polymer Clay How To
Book like new! Little Grandaughter's find items to make with Grandma & they actually look good!! Covers a lot of ground & answers a lot of questions!

Excellent book
I am new at doing clay projects and this book really help me get started.The author talks about the materials and equipment you need and the basic techniques. There are lots of projects to make and she explains the procedures very well.I like this book so much that I even ordered one of her other books "Polymer Clay Techniques Book," and it is in the process of being mailed to me. Thanks Sue Heaser for a Great Book.

Great basics!
I'm totally new to polymer clay, and I'm sure beginners are the group that Heaser had in mind when she put this fantastic collection together.It's probably one of the few books I'll need to get started.In truth,none of the projects included are very "sophisticated" (as I read in another review), but that doesn't seem to have been the author's intent.All the projects are great springboards for ideas.

Great Book For Any Clay Artist!
This book is great.Sculpting is a great hobby and for some a great profession, but it can be very time consuming. This book takes the techniques that we all use and shows how to get the same result with a faster, more efficient way of doing it.
A must have for any clay artist.

MUST HAVE BOOK FOR ANY CLAY ARTIST!
Sue Heaser has done it again. This is a great book for anyone that works with polymer clay. The whole book is full of step-by-step instructions (with tons of color photos) for many small fast projects. The projects are whimsical in nature, but the information is very helpful. I've been working with and selling clay items for over 20 years and I found this book a wonderful addition to my collection of polymer clay books. I can't wait to see what Sue Heaser comes up with next. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (12)

Get your lathe out......
This book features wonderful, funky, complex clay bead tutes that are not for the timid clayer. I am an intermediate clay artist, always looking for advanced techniques and ideas. However, this book requires more of a commitment than I am willing to make. Not to be sexist,but it hits me as a guy's book - you know, a day in the life in shop class - lathes, drills, templates, etc. I appreciate the workmanship and creativity, but I will enjoy this book for the "eye candy" rather than a technique resource.

for precise people
this is a honest book: nothing to appeal more than necessary, nothing 'poetic', just a straight, technical book. good photos and explanations, many ideas which may look difficult but aren't -but not for beginners!- is a book written by a curious person who developped a very personal way of working with polymer clay. I would suggest to buy it if you already have many books on the subject.

Good technical manual for serious polymer artists
This is a gorgeous book and a good technical manual that fills a niche I haven't seen filled elsewhere for the serious polymer artist.For me as a trained (but rusty--ha ha) metalsmith, and an advanced beginner in polymer, this book offered some great insights into polymer properties and design.I would definitely recommend it as an addition to the library of any serious, aspiring student of polymer as well as the accomplished polymer artist who wants a different take.

Artful book on polymer bead making
The most artful book on making polymer clay beads. Great information on colors and finishing and there is some very good information on making molds and shaping beads without fancy tools as well as sculpting amazing beads. One small criticism is that there was more information on lathing beads than I was interesting. Also I wanted to know how to get the large extruder used for several of the beads. I can only find small extruders. It looks similar to a cookie press but I think it is a specialized polymer clay tool. Those two things make the review 4 instead of 5 stars. It is a beautiful book though and essential for bringing your polymer beads to the next level.

New Techniques for Polymer Clay Artists
I own about a dozen polymer clay books that I have purchased over the last twenty years to learn from. Most of those books contain a lot of duplication. Lots of authors offer more or less the same instruction on creating faux gemstones, caning and millefiori and other basic types of techniques, but most of these are only variations of one another. Diffendaffer has gone these other authors one better because he applies the use of tools to his work that are not commonly described in other books. These include texture plates that you can design in your studio or work space, tube and core beads that are constructed using mandrels, an oven stand using mandrels to bake many beads at one time, a lathe, polymer clay extruders, and texturing tools. He has also included information on the basics so the book could be used by those who are not highly experienced.

The bead types for which there are illustrations and instructions include mica shift beads, textured beads, lathe-turned beads, recursive molded beads, molded hollow-form beads and mandrel formed pillow beads (these are beads that extend halfway around the neck). While not all of them are to my taste, I have to say that most of them are quite attractive and very original.

The book concludes with a gallery that includes beautiful works by Dan Cormier, Jeffrey Dever, Debra De Wolfe, Kathleen Dustin, Celie Fago, Lindly Jaunani, Kasuyo Kono, Judy Kuskin, Wendy Wallin Malinow, Sarah Shriverr, Cynthia Toops and Elise Winter. Highly recommended as an addition to the library of any polymer clay artist or practitioner. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (16)

The art of Jewelry Polymer Clay by Katherine Duncan Aimone
Great book, full of inspiration and excellent instruction.I would recommend this book to anyone interested in making jewelry or learning new techniques.

I don't know
there is something in this book that doesn't work and I don't know why. the paper is of good quality, the printing too, many -MANY- explanations, photos,projects.there is also a small gallery section at the end. in spite of all these good qualities, the result is boring. It reminds me of a sewing book my granny had - I mean the spirit of it-. there are no 'twists', no surprises, you don't hear a 'oohh' coming out of your open mouth. it seems that the most important thing is the good result, loosing the excitement of the route.Let's say it's a well done book that I wouldn't give as a present.

Spectacular
I could look at this book every day. Unlike some books which include some basic techniques and then load all the good stuff into the gallery, this book is all in. Each of the artists represented here has very generously shared amazing techniques and accompanied them with easily understood directions. I really enjoyed this book from cover to cover. There's not a project here that I don't want to try. And then, just as you think it can't get any better, there is a fabulous gallery at the end of the book, with the artists sharing even more of their work building on these techniques. I highly recommend it for anyone's library. What a pleasure!

Beautiful!
I loved this book!It gets you wanting to drop the book and make some projects.I work in metal clay and I was really inspired by some of the techniques, as well as adding polymer clay to my own work.

teaches you to think outside of the box !
this book intends to inspire you to think outside of the box and that's what it does!!
I love it; the pictures are great, the instructions are good, and most of all it shows a variety of techniques, both common and unusual ones.
I use only this book to make bracelets, there are some fabulous examples in it ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (8)

Good Place to Start
I selected this book to get some background information, as I have never worked with polymer clay.There is some excellent information about using the clay, and I learned much about the medium.I probably won't be making anything from this right away, but I am glad to have it as a reference.

Easy to Follow Instructions
I am quite an amateur at polymer clay but this book really helped me come up with some interesting projects.The instructions were very clear and easy to follow.I recommend this to all polymer clay fans!!!! Thumbs up from me.

ONE OF THE MORE HELPFUL BOOKS ON THIS SUBJECT OUT THERE.
I found this work to be most helpful.It provides step by step instructions and is great for the beginner.The book is full of designs for use with Polymer Clay and is quite detailed.The photography is great and quite clear.The text is full of helpful hints and tips as to techniques that are easy to follow.I also enjoyed the great ideas for projects I gleaned from this work.One of the strong areas of this book, unlike some others I have in my collection, is that the author does not assume that you already know something and goes ahead and explains even simple steps.The only weakness I found was that some of the information is just a bit dated as so much progress has been made in this field over the past two or three years.This is not a big problem though as there certainly is no "bad" information. This is a good one to add to your collection as it is nice to have on hand to answer questions as you are working.It is also a very handy book to have if you happen to be teaching a course in working with Polymer clays.The instructions here can be worked into a lesson plan quite nicely.Highly recommend.

Good book to teach canes and give examples
The author shows how to make canes and that is pretty much all that is in this book.Not much if you are looking for other techniques.

5stars for us beginners
Im new at polymer clay and this book is just perfect.Ive loaned it out but kept track of it so no one forgets to bring it back too..I really couldnt have learned so much about canning and the craft of beads in polymer clay without this book..ITs a must add to your clay library.Mrs.C. ... Read more

Product Description
Great crossover potential--introduces a fresh creative medium and process for mixed-media, collage, assemblage, polymer clay and mosaic tile artists.

Project variety--along with more familiar surfaces (like tables and mirrors), mosaic work is introduced in refreshingly new formats, such as jewelry and shrines.

Features an extensive techniques section and 18 step-by-step demos designedto be accessible to all skill levels.

Mixed Media Mosaics uses polymer-clay, mosaic-tile work as a new and exciting platform for mixed-media/collage artists. Readers will learn to craft highly textural and vividly colored icons, boxes, tables, items of personal adornment and more, using a combination of manufactured tiles and handmade tiles. Techniques for creating the tiles include painting and glazing, stamping, embedding items like beads and buttons, mixing pigments and mica powders with clay, adding metallic leaf, creating molds, combining the handcrafted tiles with traditional mosaic tile, grout alternatives and more. In addition to learning techniques for making their own tiles, readers will discover helpful processes for working inspiration (such as an homage to a loved one or a memorable getaway) into their tile-work, using personalization techniques such as stamping words or adding personal ephemera and found objects. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (44)

Tile Paradise
Laurie Mika has filled a gap for clay artisans to think outside the box rather than just creating beads or jewelry.She gives instructions for clay preparation, the use of rubber stamps in creating the tiles as well as the painting and embellishing the finished tiles.This is the only book I've found that uses clay in creating mosaics and I keep hoping Ms Mika will write another one on clay tiles.The only drawback with the book is that there are no guide to oven temperature and times.My biggest problem is that I can't find that darn geometric stamp she uses on page 19 and it's driving me nuts.

I have completed two shrines thanks to this inspirational book and am working on my third.Selling them at this point is not an option at this point because they're so special to me but perhaps when I've completed more and there isn't anymore wall space in my house.

Mised-Media Mosaics
I have been looking for this book for a long time and was very pleased to see this one listed on Amazon in mint condition at a very reasonable price. Ordering was easy and delivery was prompt with merchandise quality just as advertised. I wanted to get this in time for a workshop that I actually am attending with this author that I have scheduled in August. This is an awesome book - many ideas and good instruction in techniques.
I may never pay retail in a brick-and-mortar store - again! BestRegards,Marge

A truly inspiring book
I bought three different books on making polymer clay mosaics and this is the one that really excited me. Although it goes beyond just polymer clay, to create mixed media mosaics, it is full of techniques and ideas - a truly inspiring book. Well illustrated, with clear step by step photos, and full of interesting project ideas, with an original touch. Laurie's work manages to combine much detail and colour but in a harmonious way. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in mosaics, mixed media work and making polymer clay tiles.

wonderful book.
This is an excellent book, for both mosiac and polymer clay people.My daughter works with mosiac and I with polymer and when I saw it I had to have one too.Very nice picture and instructions.

Beyond Polymer Beads
A lot of thought and work went into the making of this book.Besides being very informative, giving good instructions (even to a polymer clay novice) and offering very useful "tips" scattered throughout, it is just a beautiful book--something you would want to leave out and share with others. It includes great photos of a lot of beautiful, inspiring works and gives the reader a lot of great ideas on what to do with polymer clay except make another bead! This is real "eye candy" for a mosaic, collage or polymer clay artist. ... Read more

Product Description
Polymer clay jewelry is hot! A growing number of crafters are eager to learn the art form, while longtime enthusiasts are always looking for new, fun projects. Creative Techniques for Polymer Clay Jewelry will appeal to both groups with:

-An extensive overview of polymer clay and jewelry-making basics, including tools and materials, blending and finishing-A section devoted to making simple and complex canes such as the leaf cane, rose cane and star cane-20 step-by-step jewelry projects, each including suggestions for variations so readers can tailor the projects to their own taste ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Great polymer clay tips and techniques
I'm new to using polymer clay and am on the look out for new ideas and techniques that I can follow exactly or add my own twist.This book has great projects with good "how-to" instructions.Definitely one of the better books I've purchased.And it's interesting to see what different jewellery artists' create with polymer clay due its awesome versatility.

I love this book!!!
I have had so much fun using the techniques in this book, and I haven't even gotten 1/3 of the way through.I wasn't sure I would like it as well as Donna Kato's book on surface techniques, but I have actually found it easier to work with.Perhaps it is a question of aesthetics - I really like the author's color schemes and design sense.Would definitely buy this book again!!!

Not bad
Some interesting concepts. Seemed a bit too project orientated for me personally but learned a few things and interesting to see her process.

This is the book I've been looking for!
If you wonder how polymer artists create all those incredible, minute details and delicate shading read this book. Ms. Bananto's designs may or may not be to your taste, but (hey, we're all different) the secret of HOW she achieves them is relevant for anyone who wants to develop such skills. Basics and general information are well written too. Good work, lady.

Great PC jewelry book. Love it.
Basics were covered well and her basic canework instructions (18 canes) were perfectly photograhed and explained.Considering I'm the visual, put things together by the diagram alone kind of person, I'm picky about photo demonstrations in clay books.There never seems to be enough.I think I could make up every cane solely instructed by photos in this book.

The projects include typical sliced beads, rolled beads, image transfers, a really cool fidget pendant and much more.She also includes the jewelry making steps as well as the clay making.

I especially enjoyed the color palette section (inspirational fabric samples) and the color palettes supplied at each project.That's a tip I will use regularly. ... Read more

Product Description
Specifically designed with the tween (8–12-year-old) girl in mind, Clay So Cute! shows how one of the easiest mediums—polymer clay, which need only be baked in the oven—can be sculpted into quick, simple, totally fun jewelry and accessories.

Given our proven track record in selling polymer clay DIY books to the adult market, and Haab’s wide fan base and successful previous books, Clay So Cute! will be an instant success with girls (and their mothers and grandmothers) looking for projects that are more sophisticated than “kid stuff,” but trendier and more age-appropriate than the pieces in adult clay books.

Using simple, step-by-step illustrated techniques, few tools, and updated colors to make tween-friendly projects like mini-cupcake charms, robot key chains, polka-dot ponytail holders, Japanese-style animals, and a wide assortment of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, Clay So Cute! is a sweet discovery for tween girls. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Fantastic ideas for boys and girls....and mom!
We gifted our seven year old daughter four yearwith a kit filled with polymer clay and a toolkit.This book was included and has been such a hit!Our favorites have been the bottlecap pendants and the claybots (our four year old son loves these!).The instructions are very clear, and I like the way it shows how much of each color clay to use for each project (it shows you a dot and says to get a ball of clay the same size).
I appreciate that each project introduces techniques that can be applied to her own ideas (like using a tool to apply a texture, or marbleizing colors), and that the finished products are actually cute, useful, and hip, rather than being too grandma (with no offense to grandmas :)

More Ideas
It is a cute book full of items that would appeal to the younger set. ... Read more

Product Description
Polymers are very large molecules consisting of many atoms covalently bonded like a chain. Their structure gives unique physical properties to polymer solutions.This outstanding textbook gives a clear and concise introduction to the modern theory of polymer physics.It describes basic concepts and methods and explains the statistical properties of the assembly of chain-like molecules; topics include scaling theory, concentration fluctuation, gels, and reptation.This is an ideal volume for graduate students and advanced undergraduates in polymer physics. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great intro to polymer physics, easy to follow proofs.
It's short and to the point, explaining all the fundamentals needed to progress in this field.

Prelude to Doi-Edward's Theory of Polymer Dynamics
The finest aspect of the book is its thickness; in just over 100 pages Doi essentially summarises everything in Polymer Dynamics. In some sense the book is meant as a bridge between the graduate level courses on Polymer Dynamics/Physics and book: The Theory of Polymer Dynamics and hence is assessible only with some background on basics. Nevertheless its serves its purpose pretty well.

Excellent introduction to theorerical polymer physics
Firstly, this book is NOT for someone wanting an introduction to polymerscience.There is little here that would be of use in a first course inpolymers. The book is very slim (a scarce 113 pages), divided into fivechapters covering individual polymer chains, melts, gels, dynamics indilute solutions, and finally dynamics in the entanglement regime.Theintense detail of Doi and Edwards is left out but the level of mathematicaldescription is comparable.Strongly recommended as an introduction topolymer physics, especially because it covers a lot of important issues ina very brief, easy-to-understand, but rigorous fashion. ... Read more

Product Description
An Updated Edition of the Classic Text

Polymers constitute the basis for the plastics, rubber, adhesives, fiber, and coating industries. The Fourth Edition of Introduction to Physical Polymer Science acknowledges the industrial success of polymers and the advancements made in the field while continuing to deliver the comprehensive introduction to polymer science that made its predecessors classic texts.

The Fourth Edition continues its coverage of amorphous and crystalline materials, glass transitions, rubber elasticity, and mechanical behavior, and offers updated discussions of polymer blends, composites, and interfaces, as well as such basics as molecular weight determination. Thus, interrelationships among molecular structure, morphology, and mechanical behavior of polymers continue to provide much of the value of the book.

Newly introduced topics include:
* Nanocomposites, including carbon nanotubes and exfoliated montmorillonite clays
* The structure, motions, and functions of DNA and proteins, as well as the interfaces of polymeric biomaterials with living organisms
* The glass transition behavior of nano-thin plastic films

In addition, new sections have been included on fire retardancy, friction and wear, optical tweezers, and more.

Introduction to Physical Polymer Science, Fourth Edition provides both an essential introduction to the field as well as an entry point to the latest research and developments in polymer science and engineering, making it an indispensable text for chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, and polymer science and engineering students and professionals. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Polymers are good
This book introduced me to physical polymer science. I have a strong interest in this field. The book is very informative but not easy to read. However, it is very helpful that key points in the chapters are depicted quite nicely by diagrams and graphs.

so-so
Like any other text. To pricy if you ask me.

Best beginners book in market!!
Sperling's book stands out as the most useful polymer science text, compiling essential elements of varied physical properties and behaviour. The third edition has up to date material on all aspects of polymer physics including chapters on polymer surfaces and interfaces as well as on multicomponent polymer systems and liquid crystalline polymers. In my opinion, as a beginners guide, the book is definitely outscores over all other texts in market including Billmeyer, Painter Coleman, Rodriquez, etc. The book also contains a good description of various polymer characterization techniques.

The material covered is adequate to provide basic information about each field in polymer physics, and the textbook has enough material to be useful for two or three courses. The author presents a lot of tables in the book, that succintly summarize important points related to that topic. Coupled with Strobl's book, which has slightly advanced description of polymer physics, and Doi's Introduction to polymer physics, which has mathematically intensive description of statistical mechanics of polymers, you have three texts to teach you essentially everything there is to know in Polymer Physics!! (Perhaps you can add a text for Polymer Rheology, say by Larson!) ... Read more

Product Description
This unified approach to polymer materials science is divided in three major sections:

Basic Principles - covering historical background, basic material properties, molecular structure, and thermal properties of polymers
Influence of Processing on Properties - tying processing and design by discussing rheology of polymer melts, mixing and processing, the development of anisotropy, and solidification processes.
Engineering Design Properties - covering the different properties that need to be considered when designing a polymer component - from mechanical properties to failure mechanisms, electrical properties, acoustic properties, and permeability of polymers. The first edition was praised for the vast number of graphs and data that can be used as a reference. A new table in the appendix containing material property graphs for several polymers further strengthens this attribute. A new chapter introducing polymers from a historical perspective not only makes the topic less dry, but it also provides a chance to shade light on the role polymers played, for better and for worse, while shaping today's industrial world. The most important change made to this edition is the introduction of real-world examples and a variety of problems at the end of each chapter. ... Read more