“By Hand & Eye” by George R. Walker & Jim Tolpin is a comprehensive guide that explores the fundamental principles of design and proportion in woodworking and architecture. This insightful book delves into the historical and practical aspects of design, offering readers a deeper understanding of how simple ratios and proportions govern much of the visual world.

Key Features:

• 200 pages of in-depth exploration of design principles
• Full-color illustrations throughout
• Printed on heavy #80-pound matte coated paper
• Case-bound and sewn for durability
• Hardback boards covered in cotton cloth with black matte stamp
• Produced and printed entirely in the United States

Content Highlights:

• Examines common proportions like 1:2, 3:5, and 4:5 in pre-industrial design
• Focuses on the use of dividers as a primary design tool
• Offers exercises to develop the reader’s “inner eye” for design
• Includes nine contemporary projects for practical application of principles
• Emphasizes hands-on practice over formulaic approaches

Ideal for:

• Woodworkers seeking to improve their design skills
• Architects and designers interested in historical design principles
• Students of traditional craftsmanship
• Anyone interested in the intersection of geometry and aesthetics

Benefits:

• Provides a deep understanding of design principles beyond mere formulas
• Encourages development of intuitive design skills
• Offers practical exercises for immediate application
• Includes projects for hands-on learning and experimentation

“By Hand & Eye” stands out for its approach to teaching design as a skill to be practiced and internalized, rather than a set of rules to be memorized. The authors’ emphasis on understanding and applying simple proportions, coupled with practical exercises and projects, makes this book an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their design capabilities in woodworking or related fields.