Terrarium Craft

June 15, 2011

Few terrarium books have been published in recent years, but many glass gardening enthusiasts persisted past the 1970s, and they will enjoy the 50 projects in this book--updated terrariums evocative of forests, beaches, deserts, and fantasies. Projects break the mold of traditional, covered, humid terrariums and have a modern look even when incorporating antiques or mementos. As in any good craft book, each project includes at least one large, stunning photograph, a materials list, and enumerated directions. Crafty brown thumbs will appreciate the inclusion of maintenance advice for each completed project. The resource list is helpful for locating supplies not found locally, but suggested substitutions are readily given since the authors encourage creativity and spontaneity. Aiello is the owner of Artemisia (a Portland, OR, boutique specializing in indoor gardening) and Bryant is a columnist for Portland Monthly. Some projects incorporate succulents, a plant group excluded from Tovah Martin's The New Terrarium, which offers fewer projects but more thoroughly discusses plants, containers, history, and resources. VERDICT Recommended for indoor gardeners and crafters alike.--Bonnie Poquette, Milwaukee

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