Third in a series of "Maker's Guides" from the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, this volume takes aim at the various forms of papercraft. The wealth of the presentation is both in the historical perspectives shared and the many variations offered on each of 15 projects. With this guide, makers can perform long-honored traditions of papercrafting, from origami and silhouettes to "sticking," which includes quilling, decoupage, and paper modeling. Sections include "Folding," "Cutting," "Sticking," and "Forming." Projects include a 3-D peepshow, a tropical bird silhouette, and a handmade paper booklet. Not adhering to any one tradition, this is a greatest hits of the world's papercraft, from Polish Wycinanki paper cuts to Kashmir papier-mâché. Readers will learn how to make not only things from paper but handmade paper itself, down to crafting their own mold and deckle. Each project can be adjusted to challenge both novices and experts, and many can be made with items found in the home. The designs are supplemented with images of completed works held in the V&A Museum, as well as a comprehensive section on tools and techniques. VERDICT Full of inspiration and expertise, this title promises hours of enrichment and activity. Historical and contemporary elements combine artfully to offer plenty of enjoyment for papercrafters. Linda White, Maplewood, MN

This beautiful collection of old and modern paper crafts belonging to London-s Victoria and Albert Museum, and the accompanying project guide, affirm that paper artistry remains a flourishing art form. Evident throughout is a high level of originality and craftsmanship, illustrating the diversity of paper crafting techniques. The book provides a splendid example of folding with a gorgeous 18th-century opera fan, which served as a seating plan with names of box holders. Paper-cutting techniques are represented by old cut-paper silhouettes of domestic scenes as well as by a contemporary family portrait silhouette. The intricacy of quilling (rolled paperwork) and decoupage (pasting and lacquering cutout paper images onto objects) is shown in tea caddies and framed motifs. Spectacular sculptures and papermaking projects include colorful masks, elegant handmade book covers, and papier-mâché bowls. Suggested design templates, tools, and materials are provided for the budding crafter. In the foreword, Rob Ryan, a London specialist in paper cutting, notes that it is the creative challenges of paper, -a material so light, so delicate, yet surprisingly strong,- that draw many to the craft. This book unearths a treasure trove of paper crafts and provides guidance for the modern artisan. Photos. (Oct.)