Learn the ancient, creative art of illumination

Illumination--the creation of elaborate, decorated letters and initials--became an artform in the monasteries of medieval Europe. Embellished with gold leaf, the illuminated letters of those early scribes seemed to reflect light, as though they were indeed illuminated. This traditional art is now attracting enthusiasts who are seeking out a new craft or hobby.

This adult activity book includes instructions for recreating illuminated alphabets from six historical periods, ranging from the Celtic to the Renaissance. Diagrams for upper- and lower-case letters are accompanied by ideas for borders and decorations, and full instructions for gilding.

Each section explores ways the illuminated letters can be adapted to create a truly personal style, while a gallery of modern examples will inspire further creativity.

You'll also learn about tools and techniques, including:

• Setting up a workstation
• Paper, vellum and parchment
• Brushes, pens, pencils, paints and inks
• Gilding
• Layout and design
• and much more

This beautiful book also features a picture gallery of outstanding historical and contemporary illuminated letters, as well as a glossary and index. More than 400 inspiring color illustrations in total. A perfect gift for adults looking to explore calligraphy or bookbinding, The Bible of Illuminated Letters is a must-have for anyone looking for creative, mindful activities.

If you've ever wanted to learn the techniques of hand lettering, Calligraphy gives practical advice and guidance on materials, tools, and proper methods. Containing four alphabets and 12 step-by-step projects, you'll be able to create stunning cards, calendars, letterheads, and wall hangings. Author and professional lettering artist Margaret Morgan will provide you with all the essential skills you need to enjoy and thrive in the beautiful art of calligraphy

Once used primarily for fishing, netting now works beautifully as a base for filet lace. While many lacemakers use commercially available varieties, Margaret Morgan wanted unique sizes and colors. So she began to make her own. Here she explains the equipment she uses and the traditional techniques shes gathered from old source material, and provides 40 patterns with instructions for creating different shapes and edgings. Use the lace for scarves, shawls, place mats, doilies, and even miniature items for a dolls house.

By 1799, Mrs. McKeiver had lived in the Hills for twenty-one years, time enough to be an accepted midwife and herbal healer. Widowed now, she cares for her brilliant twenty-year-old son, crippled when a child. In addition, she cooks for the poor with donated food, as Poor Relief bread alone is insufficient. This annoys the Bishop, furious that the Reverend Reeves delivers it and lets the poor grow food on Glebe Farm. She is regularly faced with mysterious pregnancies, plus children being abused by their parents and carers. However, she cannot go on without a husband's support. Funnily enough, he has been waiting.

Tecky watched his very old beaver hat fly into a puddle. Again. When would his new school bullies stop sneering at him, for being a Chief's son; descended from the great chief, Tecumseh, of the Shawnee people. The jeering slobs watched him cycle towards his sisters, who were waiting to grab him, like the old game. Living with their grandparents, managers of a trailer park for addicted Native Americans, was a new experience for the girls and Tecky. He knew a young chief like him should conquer or befriend the bullies and look after his family; however Grandpa seemed to be with the Great Spirits sometimes. His one consolation was Shotokan karate. He knew he must deal with his demons, take the next grading and become a respected chief. After all, his name was Tecumseh.

Snooks is now used to her father being both Mum and Dad, since Mum's departure last year. She also likes his new girlfriend, Trish. What Snooks and Dad soon learn will tip them upside down; drawing Trish and Mum's new boyfriend, Anton, into the Madly Bonkers Life Snooks lives through. As life normalises, she and Dad go to have bone marrow tests to save a rather special boy

Dee is thrilled with her new grey, Welsh Mountain pony, Lily. Very quickly, she learns how clever the pony is. Soon, it Is obvious that Lily is taking an interest in everyone's well-being. With her 'eyelash kisses', Lily senses the needs of those around her and gives each person her undivided attention. Little wonder that she is soon loved by everyone.