The Arts and Crafts Computer: Using Your Computer as an Artist's Tool
by Janet Ashford, Peachpit Press, 2002
The Arts and Crafts Computer shows you how to use your personal computer, scanner, digital camera and color printer as artist tools to create beautiful graphics and artful objects for your home, school and work. You'll learn how to:
• Understand the basics of digital image-editing, typesetting and graphic design.
• Gather the right tools, both digital and traditional.
• Use the new inkjet printing media including cloth, decals, stickers, magnets, transparencies and more.
• Work with art materials safely, avoid computer-related stress and find environmentally-friendly materials.
• Create unique greeting cards and envelopes, artist books, games, toys, home decorations and gifts.
Unfortunately, Peachpit Press has let this book go out of print and has no plans to print more. You can still find copies at used book stores, either in your town or on-line. I teach the crafts described in this book in computer arts classes at the Mendocino Art Center.
Contents
Chapter 1 • Understanding Digital Tools
- Choosing a Computer
- Understanding Bitmaps and PostScript
- Choosing Software for Graphics
- Understanding Resolution
- Bringing Images into the Computer
- Using Personal Printers
- Understanding Bitmaps and PostScript
Chapter 2 • Working with Photos and Scans
- Scanning Traditional Art and Photos
- Digital Drawing and Painting
- Scanning Real Objects
- Using Copyright-Free Clip Art
- Altering and Combining Images
- Applying Special Effects
- Working with Old Photos
- Digital Collage and Photomontage
- Digital Drawing and Painting
Chapter 3 • Using Type and Design
- Typesetting Terms and Techniques
- Experimenting with Type
- The Basics of Graphic Design
- A Simple Four-Step Design Process
- Using a Grid
- Creative Design Techniques
- Experimenting with Type
Chapter 4 • Gathering Art Supplies
- Drawing and Painting
- Appreciating Paper
- Using Adhesives
- Basic Craft Tools
- Appreciating Paper
Chapter 5 • Making Cards and Small Books
- The History of Stationery and Cards
- Creating Greeting Card Designs
- Creative Card Techniques
- Working with Envelopes
- Creating Message Cards and Bookmarks
- Creating Artist Books
- Simple Book Structures
- Coloring Books
- Creating Greeting Card Designs
Chapter 6 • Crafting Gifts and Decorations
- Showcasing Photos and Art
- Using Plastic Craft Kits
- Exploring Special Media
- Working with Cloth
- Decorating Everyday Objects
- Using Clear Labels
- Using Lamination
- Gifts for Children
- Creating Folded Boxes
- Decorations for Celebrations
- Gift Wrapping
- Using Plastic Craft Kits
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