ISBN 0-8019-8918-3, Softcover, 1997, 120 pages, Krause Publications, 700 East State Street, Iola, WI. 54990-0001, Phone 715-445-2214 or 1-800-258-0929 to place an order or to obtain a free catalog.
Website: http://www.krause.com

This book takes you easily through the basic steps of making paper and also leads you on to other more interesting processes and projects. It's wonderful for the beginning or "casual" papermaker.

The book begins with clear, concise instructions on setting up your work area and what equipment will be necessary. It continues with recipes and complete instructions for making several different types of paper including the use of plant materials and other wonderful recycling ideas to make your paper truly special.

Part three of the books starts the projects. There are twenty-five projects from gift tags to lamp shades to jewelry, each with clear, easy to follow directions. This part is separated into Sheet Projects, Hand-cast Projects and Dipped Sculpture Projects. Some of the projects are a bit simplistic but it gets the creativity flowing for carrying that idea a step or two further or even combining various projects.

Dipped Pedestal on page 111 is an enticing project that offers many possibilities for added bead or fiber embellishment. This project includes a wire mesh as a structure to be dipped with the paper mix. Wreath & Heart Shaped Ornament on page 113 offers easy wire coiling ideas to form the base for the pieces. Angel Shaped Ornament is included in these projects.

One of the nicest things in the book are her "Hot Tips". Interspersed throughout the book are several colored blocks with extra tips to make things easier or more interesting. One tip was adding lavender seed to your paper, it will release aroma when the paper is torn.

This book is clear and easy to follow. There is some repetition that I have a problem with but I understand the need. ( I know exactly what to do with my waste water and I'll never forget it! It was just a personal thing with me. )

Paper plus delivers what it's title implies. It's a good read, the pictures are good and instructions are easy to read and understand. The Suppliers Directory and Source List in it are a big help to amateur papermakers.

If you're new to papermaking, you'll love this book. It provides a firm foundation with lots of inspiration for growth.

Book review by Teresa Barrett (Warped)