Woodworker's Central Woodworker's Gazette Gazette Archive 8/13/00

A book review: By Donato A. De Santis Title: Scrollsaw Toys for all ages Author: Ivor Carlyle Published by: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc. via the Guild of Master Craftsman Publications 387 Park Avenue South New York, NY 10016-8810 ISBN 1861081464 Price Softcover: $19.95 (Canada $29.95 ) 176 color pages This is not the first book from the U.K. that I have looked at and possibly not the last. One thing I picked up from these books is that our cousins over on the other side of the pond have a different taste of style than we do. Their designs are certainly "non-American". Having said that, and with no disparaging intent, let me review the above titled book. Mr. Carlyle and his publishers have put together a pleasing and aesthetic book worth the $19.95 price tag (comparable with many other books for woodworking). The book starts out with an informative section on tools and techniques in which this fledgling woodworker-reviewer actually learned a thing or two. Carlyle's style of writing is clear and non-threatening for the likes of us who are just starting out in the world of scrollsawing. He then follows up with the projects, one chapter per, in which he details step-by-step the cutting and construction of each toy. The text is accompanied by extensive step-by-step annotated photographs which are most helpful. The next section is devoted to scale drawings of all the pieces for each project. The drawings are very professionally rendered and are fully dimensioned in metric (and 'American'). Each page of drawings contain the scale of the drawings and the percentage to enlarge your copy to make the pieces full size. I enjoyed the book, the writing, the clarity of instructions, the excellent photographs and drawings. Although I did not particularly like the toys presented in the book, I did enjoy many of the techniques that Mr. Carlyle uses in bringing his toy designs to life. At the very least, I recommend the book to anyone who is into toy building just to see how Mr. Carlyle does some of the things which animate his designs. Donato A. De Santis Editor's Note: Sterling Publishing has graciously donated several books for review which are passed on to our members free of charge in exchange for thoughtful, honest reviews. Thank You! And you can usually find their titles at a discount from Amazon.com