Designs From the Book of Kells by Judy Balchin, softback published by Judy Balchin. ISBN 978-1-84448-417-1, price 7.99 from www.searchpress.com

The beautifully illustrated Book of Kells has been a source of inspiration for numerous artists from multiple disciplines for many years. In this book, Judy Balchin presents over 100 line illustrations that are typical of the Book of Kells and can be used in many ways. Judy also explores the latter with sixteen projects. There are, however, no how-to’s- simply a note on which design was used and how the project was made. 

The line drawings are beautifully done and a CD also accompanies the book, making this a good resource for all artists and crafters. The designs can be reproduced at any size. This 48 page book represents great value for money.

The Complete Book of Celtic Designs, softback published by Search Press. ISBN 978-1-84448-299-3 available from www.searchpress.com

This book is subtitled A source book for craftspeople and artists plus a gallery of inspirational finished pieces. The ideas come form Judy Balchin and Jenny Rolfe. Together they present twelve design projects using the Celtic theme from cards, mugs and book covers to bookmarks and a dragon plaque. Each finished project is shown as a full colour photograph.

Want some inspiration along a Celtic theme? After you have studied the projects, take a look at over 300 borders, motifs and patterns on the timeless Celtic theme that are presented in this book. Fantastic line drawings represent all Celtic themes and symbols and can be used as they are or enlarged if need be. They are drawn to a good sized scale, so many can be used without having to later them first. This is a fabulous directory for anyone needing inspiration.

Celtic Knots for Beaded Jewellery by Suzen Millidot, softback published by Search Press. ISBN 978-1-84448-054-2, price 9.99 available from www.searchpress.com

The jewellery in this book is all inspired by the Celtic theme. Celtic inspired beads are used, but the basis of this book is on making cords for necklaces, rings and bracelets from Celtic knots. Eighteen fabulous projects are shown with easy-to-follow-, step-by-step instructions and clear photographs. You can create original jewellery with a Celtic theme.

The book has a thorough introduction including a brief history, materials and equipment and how to dye your own cords. The knots might look complicated but there is no need to get yourself in a twist as the instructions could not be clearer. Start with a simple braid or plait and work up to the more challenging work. 

All who are interested in jewellery or Celtic work, will be entranced by this 80-page book.

Celtic Papers, softback published by Search Press, ISBN 978-1-84448-222-1 price 6.99 available form www.searchpress.com

This selection of 24 Celtic inspired papers for crafters includes the usual Celtic themes and symbols. Personally I was a little disappointed by the selection, which I believe does nothing to represent the richness of colour associated with Celtic design. They are not suitable as gift wrap as each sheet is around A4 size only.

Handmade Celtic Cards by Paula Pascual, softback published by Search Press, price 6.99. ISBN 978-1-84448-260-3 available from www.searchpress.com

This is a small, practical craft book for anyone interested in the Celtic theme or card making. The ideas are beautifully presented with good photography and easy to follow instructions. The six fascinating projects are accompanied by a gallery of alternative ideas. A range of card-making techniques are used such as stencilling, embossing and stamping. There is also a section on materials and equipment.

This is an attractive 48 page book that gives an introduction to card-making techniques to create stunning cards using a celtic theme. It is one of a series on themed card making books.

Every bit as good as Japanese Designs, in fact if anything I like this designs in this book even more. Do bear in mind that you need to justify the cost for personal projects as images are not allowed to be used on anything that is intended for sale. 

The 128 page book and CD-Rom follow the same format with the same information as the Japanese Vector Designs book in the same series (see review) and is just as beautifully produced. The 269 motifs and 25 texture images include animals, celtic knotwork and an alphabet.

In one word fabulous.