Schiffer Craft Books

A century ago, great flocks of waterfowl darkened the skies, and duck hunting had primarily one purpose: to put food on the table. It was an era when such carvers as Nathan Cobb, Elmer Crowell,...

This is an enlarged edition of a work that has been accepted as the most complete exposition of model shipbuilding. The book is unusual in its attention to minute and authentic detail, supplying more than...

A comprehensive history of knots and ropemaking that covers thousands of knots, with how-to instructions for tying and making useful and decorative items with rope.  When this book first published in 1939, it quickly became—and...

Love working with gourds, but hate all the dust? This new book offers an alternative technique. Step-by-step instructions, along with 176 color photographs, show how to chip and chisel a gourd into a decorative piece...

Discover a world of enchantment and creative possibilities with Sammie Crawford, the Fairy Gourdmother.™ Her painting and decorating techniques, patterns, and practical instruction will have you creating masterpieces. Gourds are everywhere: in gardens, at the...

Scrimshaw is a technique of stippling and scratching on fossil ivory, horn, and bone. Its roots lie in the traditional art of whaling men of the 18th and 19th centuries, but it has developed as...

Here's a fun and inexpensive way to transform your decor -- furniture slipcovers that can be applied and removed to fit the occasion or the season. A talented seamstress shares her tips and techniques for...

Coiling is a basketry technique used as decoration in gourd art. Step-by-step coiling techniques, as well as pattern designs, help gourd enthusiasts use coiled waxed linen and colored thread to enhance their work. 196 color...

Learn techniques every scrimshaw carver needs for true proficiency in this traditional art form. Over 130 clear color photos illustrate ivory carving with hand and power tools, color and power engraving and painting, and practices...

This beautiful, three-dimensional dollhouse is easy to assemble. Children and adults alike will enjoy the rich architectural ornamentation of this classic, Victorian cottage. Create your own color scheme for both its interior and exterior. Two...

These projects join two age-old skills: gourding and sewing. With simple techniques, you can combine gourds with a cloth body to make dolls or puppets to enjoy or give as gifts. In this Do-It-Yourself guide,...

This guide is a dazzling showcase of this uniquely American art form. The pages are filled with tips, techniques, and insights that both educate and demonstrate the steps to creating authentic and beautiful scrimshaw. An...