Monday, March 30, 2009

What to Write

I'm in the planning stages of my next book. Yes, I know the first book isn't even out yet, but I thought I would start jotting down my ideas and writing brief instructions for the next book. I'm wondering whether to do a small book in color or to do another one the same size as the first. I definitely want the instructions to be more advanced and I already have a couple of instructions in mind. Here is what I have so far:

  • Repeat instructions for the standard tree only one that is bigger and has an added support structure.
  • Wrap the trunk of the tree.
  • Design your own tree.
  • Palm Tree with braided limbs and trunk.
  • Bonsai Style Tree #2 - It's all in the shaping
  • Accessories for the base of your tree: mushrooms, ferns, butterflies, flowers, pussy willows, etc.
  • Weeping Willow - Tressie style

Okay, so this is more than just a couple of instructions, but if I'm correct, the people buying this book would already own the first book or they already know how to make a gem tree so the instructions would not have to include so many pictures and diagrams which take up a lot of room in the book.

I would love to hear your comments or ideas about what should be included in the book.

Read more...

Thursday, March 19, 2009

No news is good news

Since I haven't heard from my publisher then I would assume that no news is good news and they are progressing on the formatting of my book. I could be wrong but lets hope not as April 22nd is the date I'm hoping for a proof copy and that is fast approaching.

I only have a couple of gem tree workshops scheduled for this Summer in Billings, Montana, but I can always get another group together with just a few participants. My husband and I will be demonstrating at several shows this summer, but only in Billings will we have a complete workshop with participants taking home a tree and the book.

The book will be available from the publishers web site and I'll post that info when I get it as well as any other web site that will be selling my book.

I have received several e-mails from folks using my tutorial that have had great luck and lots of compliments on their finished trees. I want to thank them for their e-mails as it has been a driving force for me to get this book out and gives me an idea of how many people there really are out that interested in making a gem tree.

My husband is already planning that I'll be writing a follow up book and I just might. I do have an idea for a smaller book with loads of color photos vs. the B&W version that would only feature a couple of trees vs. eight. But for now, I'm in a holding pattern and not wanting to start something else until this one is finished. I'll still dream in my head and maybe one of these days start writing it all down on paper.

Thanks for hanging in there with me. Dana

Read more...

Monday, March 2, 2009

Gem Tree Sculpture Book Update

For all of you who have e-mailed me wanting to get a copy, please be patient. The book is with the publisher for formatting. As soon as I get my proof copy I'll be sure to let you know. This book is laden with pictures and diagrams so hopefully they aren't having too much trouble with it.

If you are new to the Gem Tree world and want some basic instructions, I do have an earlier post from 2007 that you can search for here in my blog or e-mail me separately and I'll get something out to you.

My next goal is to get my "Dew Drop" tree completed for competition and a prototype palm completed. These two trees along with 3 trees from last year will be entered in Billings, Montana this summer at the American Federation of Mineral Societies show. It will be my final year of competition if I make "Masters". I'm going for it with my two new tree designs. Cross your fingers for me. Just as an FYI, the "Dew Drop" tree is called the "Down Under Tree" in my book, so those instructions will be provided in this first edition. I know what your thinking, she's going to do another book, well I'm thinking about a more advanced book for those who make gem trees and want additional ideas, like my palm tree. I'll post pics here when they are finished.

Cheers for now...

Read more...