Lamination Part 1

Here's part 1 of a video on making a lamination for a bowl or a basket.

Lamination Part 2

Here's the second part of the lamination.

From idea to book--5 tips for getting started

Writing a crafts book to share your skills with others is an exciting and rewarding experience. If you've ever considered doing this, here are some points to consider:

• Are your plans original? Patterns and plans are usually copyrighted; don't violate this.
• Are necessary tools and materials readily available? If not, can you adapt your plans?
• What skill level is required for your projects? Be clear about your intended audience.
• Are your instructions easy to follow? Have someone else try out your plans.
• Do you have any writing experience? Writing an article is a good way to start.

First for a cake, then for a box

After I made the bow from gumpaste, I tried making it out of wood. The diagonal ribbons were harder than the loops, but with patience, it all worked out.

To get new ideas, just look around and let the possibilities emerge

I learned how to make this loopy bow in a cake decorating class. The instructor used a real bow as a model. The bow was just perfect for this shopping theme birthday cake.

Before I made bowls . . .

As a new scroller, I experimented with various projects. Making puzzles developed basic skills. Compound cutting gave me confidence with thicker wood. And adapting band saw projects for the scroll saw taught me how to make patterns. All these parts came into play when I started making bowls.

Ribbons and bows for a box

The bow on this box was made the same way as the bows on my cakes. Each loop was made individually, then glued together. This time, the loops were made out of wood, and held together by glue.

Ribbons and bows for a cake

The ribbons and bows on this engagement cake were made of gumpaste, and attached with royal icing.

This briefcase is the most authentic-looking cake that I've made.

This wedding cake was quite a challenge.

The basket is the cake, but all the "fruit" is edible.

I was a cake decorator long before becoming a woodworker, and quickly developed my own style. Precision and attention to detail have served me well for both crafts. Here are some of the cakes I've done.

Still just a stacked ring bowl

Although not readily apparent, this ginger jar is made using the same stacked ring technique.

Experiments with stack cutting

You'd never guess how easy it is to create these effects. Stack cutting, a standard technique, is the key.

Lamination magic

I made some interesting discoveries as I experimented with my bowls. One was that straight strips of wood, properly placed, turned into swags when cut. The effect was nothing short of magical.