New Lost Art Press book: American Peasant

Books written by Chris Schwarz have plenty of how-to in them, and they also have a reputation for being a great read.

In a press release Chris Schwarz writes: ‘American Peasant is an introduction to a style of peasant furniture and decoration that is almost unheard of in the Americas. Built primarily with tongues, grooves and pegs, the furniture is frequently engraved with geometric symbols that beautify the piece and protect its owner.

‘With this book, you will learn to build 10 simple pieces using common tools and whatever lumber is on hand. And you’ll learn to engrave the pieces using nothing more than a cheap craft knife and a vinyl flooring cutter.’

Schwarz looks at the ‘language of engravings’ as found in Scandinavia, Eastern Europe and the UK. The book also contains information on making a wax and oil finish, and ‘commercial-grade’ glue, both from easy to obtain ingredients.

‘It’s the most beautiful book I have written, designed and printed’, writes Schwarz. ‘The cover is our first two-colour diestamp, and the plant did a beautiful job of stamping it extra-deep so the cloth has a fantastic texture.’

‘For those unsure whether they wish to purchase’, Schwarz writes, a pdf is available for viewing here.

Lost Art Press ships only to the US and Canada. In Australia their books are available from www.lie-nielsen.com.au and from www.carbatec.com.au