This book highlights 17 different artists. It is almost like taking a workshop from each of them in their own studios. You can't get much closer to heaven in my opinion.

Each artist shares ideas, inspirations and their expertise in their chosen fields of basketmaking and how it relates to paper. I found it interesting how each of them evolved as artists and how papermaking became part of their medium of choice.

Some of the artists give you their own personal instructions and tips on how they make the paper and why they choose to use the materials that they favor. The different approaches to the same end, combining paper and craft, was a unique experience to be involved in. And you can't help but get involved because of the emotional insights given by the artists.

I thought the black and white photos in the book were exceptional and then I got to the Portfolio section of the book with all of the color plates! I had no idea what I was missing in the B&W photos. I thought baskets from natural materials only came in natural colors.Little did I know that basketry and paper could be dyed such colors.

The closest this book comes to basketry is in the materials these artists use. To call the pieces in this book baskets is an under- statement. It is full to the brim and overflowing with "vessels" constructed using mostly natural materials. A few of the artists give basketry instructions but only in relation to what they are achieving in their art work.

Like I said earlier, it's like attending a workshop in the artist's studio. I would gladly move in with most of them and throw caution to the wind. She who hasn't made a basket on two years was out in the garage rummaging around for that broomcorn and raffia that she just couldn't bear to part with!

I can't wait to get started on a new project!