Kate Bryant

The terrariums in this book are gorgeous! They include not just lovely plants and interesting containers, but also beautiful crystals, seashells, mosses, lichens, and other interesting items. Although I have my doubts about how long some of these plantings will survive (even the authors admit that some terrariums will be only temporary installations), the care information given for the plants seems to be sensible and the step-by-step instructions are simple and easy to follow. Some of the projects include only dried mosses and lichens so are suitable for even those people who do not have enough light or who think that they can't grow plants. This book is full of visual inspiration and I'd recommend it if you're interested in starting a terrarium.… (más)

My love for terrariums goes back to the 1970s when those large, spaceship-style plastic orbs were so popular. Terrarium Craft by Amy Bryant Aiello and Kate Bryant is a wonderful book that has inspired me to bring some updated terrariums back into my home.

What I liked most about the book is that that the authors’ creations are from found materials. Instead of expensive Wardian cases, this book shows how to create beautiful scenes from a variety of glass objects you may have around the house or something you will be able to pick up at a thrift store.

The authors provide good instructions for choosing containers and the proper planting materials to provide for a healthy environment for added plants. There are many pages of inspiration for natural and unique materials to add beauty and charm to the desired scene. Plants and mosses are also explained. There are full-page sized photographs of most of the designs.

I especially appreciate the photographs that show step-by-step how to assemble the terrarium. There are 50 terrarium projects with a list of contents and instructions for assembly. They are divided into four groups based on inspiration – Forest, Beach, Desert, and Fantasy. If you are not a plant person, some of these are so pretty that you don’t need to add plants! Just in case you don’t have time to hunt and gather supplies, there is a list of resources to purchase a variety of plants, mosses, and décor.

This is a wonderful book for inspiration and instructions for creating terrariums. It would also make a nice gift book.… (más)