The Usborne Complete Book of Art Ideas

Usborne Complete Books

by Fiona Watt, Antonia Miller (Illustrator), Non Figg (Illustrator)

Contains all the techniques and projects--more than one hundred--from the Art Ideas series, and includes information on such topics as brushes, paper, media, wax resist, punched holes, and paper sculpture.

Genres: Art, Crafts, Nonfiction, Reference, Childrens

288 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 2004

About the author

Fiona Watt is an Editorial Director and writer at Usborne Publishing. She started working at Usborne in 1989 and has written and edited hundreds of books including baby and novelty, sticker, art and craft, cookery, science and activity books.
Fiona graduated from Exeter University with a B.Ed. (Hons.), specialising in Psychology and Art and Design. After university she worked as a researcher and writer for a company which published educational material for places where children went on school visits (zoos, museums, stately homes etc). She then taught seven, eight, and nine year olds for five years; three years at a state school in Sevenoaks in Kent, and two years at The British School in the Netherlands in The Hague.

Having joined Usborne in 1989, Fiona became an editorial director in 2003, largely responsible for writing baby and novelty books, as well as art and activity titles. She has written over 100 titles for Usborne Publishing, perhaps most notably the, ‘That’s not my ….‘ touchy-feely series.

Reviews

[Jason Pym · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a lot of books on teaching children art, this is the best I've found so far.There a fantastic range of ideas for painting and crafts, they all work - it's so frustrating when you find art projects in books or online that just aren't practical and never end up looking like they say. These are tried and tested. The only small negative is it seems to be made up of three earlier books bolted together, so there is some repetition, but usually this is alternate ideas on what to do with the techniques they show you, so still useful.

[Colored Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actually three WONDERFUL books in one. I just happened to stumble across (a like-new copy of) this in a local used-book store. Love the hard covers, and sturdy, covered ring binding, which means this substantial book always lies flat.
Technically a children's book, but full of great ideas, tips, and techniques for artists of all ages and skill levels. If you never thought you had any talent, or are just looking for new ideas and inspiration, this is the book is for you! Will also make a great gift for any budding, or want-to-be artist; or for anyone looking for a little more joy, freedom, fun, creativity, or color in their life. Highly recommend!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love art projects and kids, but need a few ideas? This book should give you a few ideas. Even if you aren't sold exactly on the details of each project, the book is like a springboard that can help you to find projects that suit you and your kids.
This book is best for lower to middle elementary age kids. My 12 year old twin grandchildren weren't interested, but my almost 11 year old granddaughter was interested at first. She started on one of the projects, but when I pulled out my paper cutter, she enjoyed that so much, she forgot about her project. She did help me with my project and also neatened up my picture file by cutting off the rough ends!
I will try some of the ideas with my younger grandchildren.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic book of art concepts and ideas for children. Highlights include: art vocabulary and concepts explained in easy to understand ways, step-by-step instructions with a picture for each step, ideas for alternative projects, art projects that build upon each other - so it's almost like an art course in a book! As an adult, I am super inspired by this book and would totally do these art projects. Perfect for all beginning artists, best for ages 10 +.

[Rosanne Dormer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has been very useful in giving me art projects to do with groups of children and adults, in school settings and as part of my voluntary work. There are detailed illustrations which are lovely to look at in themselves, and the instructions are clear and informative. I used one particular animal design with a group of children and they were so pleased with their drawings, which was very encouraging for them.

[Cindy Bahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic for Creativity of All Ages! Despite it officially being for children, the book is also great for adults. Especially those of us who have a serious creativity block going on. It is also good for adults who are just now getting interested in art. The book does a brilliant job of explaining each concept simply and with colorful and helpful pages. I really love this book despite not being a kid!

[Recensioni in tre parole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Valido. Chiaro. Pratico.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Using this wonderful spine for Home school art curriculum. The text unfolds gently as an approachable practical multi media choice for introductory elementary art. Appropriate for Kinder to 8th grade & possibly older students. The detailed accessible directions are as simple & easy or as complex & layered as you chose to teach. Excellent book.

[Sheri · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is great -- so many different projects are offered and I really appreciate their careful approach. For instance, who knew there were so many different ways to paint a tree? Instead of showing you one way, this book offers at least 8 very different styles. This is one of those books kids (and adults) can return to time and time again and always come away with new ideas and a fresh approach.

[Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book in a writing competition, and love it. It has such easy but cool things to draw and paint, and it really easy to understand. My favourite things to draw and paint are they trees, they are so easy to do, but look awesome! An excellent book.

[Selah Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book in a writing competition, and love it. It has such easy but cool things to draw and paint, and it really easy to understand. My favourite things to draw and paint are they trees, they are so easy to do, but look awesome! An excellent book.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

My artistic skills do not pay homage to the gifted genetics of my family. Looking at this book makes me long for that even more.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great art resource

[Ang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very very good for kids to look through for ideas and projects. There are some great art skill instruction sections as well. Added to my library.

[Amanda Harbour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great ideas and techniques. Planning to use a bunch of ideas this year teaching grade 3 and 4.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has so many great ideas. I've used them with numerous students.

[Gina Mcandrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have used this book countless times in the classroom and is an invaluable tool for teaching elements of art and principles of design. No surprise nudity either!

[Robyn Schultz (ladyrobyns) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This would give you an entire school years worth of projects and ideas.