Perfume: The art and craft of fragrance Hardcover – October 10, 2017

This is a beautiful little book. The design, the photography, the overall quality are all outstanding. In its essence it is more of a handbook, but contains all the necessary information to serve as an introduction into studying and designing perfumes. I found the historical context of the evolution of perfumes eye opening (even wished for a little more). I missed a little more information on the famous perfume houses (Guerlain, Coty, Chanel, etc.), but again, this is a small book and could not expect it to be comprehensive. The eight chapters of the book are divided evenly in between theory (art) and practice. The practice part contains recipes for sprays, oils, solids, recipes for fragrance blends, bath and body products (body scrubs, shower gels, lotions, creams), home fragrances (room sprays and reed diffusers). The author is clearly an expert on this topic and makes this introduction entertaining and easy to follow without trying to give an overly simplistic view. Again, I am amazed by the overall quality of this little book.

The book is small enough to fit in my purse. I like the easy recipes that it offers. The cover is nice and it's a easy read.

There aren't a lot of comprehensive books out there on how to make natural perfumes and fragrances. This one isn't either but it comes the closest. I believe the moral of the story is that if you really want to learn this stuff you need to take up some serious studying. However, the book goes into the science, both chemical and artistic, of how to combine scents and how to teach your nose (brain) to discern each one. It provides formulas for various blends and explains the history behind perfumes and perfume families, which I found very interesting. A pretty book as well, it is nicely done.

Used it for design inspiration. It is a very good book to have if you want to learn about the history and the trends of perfume

Liked the simplicity of the short featured articles which might entice the reader to explore further into the fascinating world of fragrance. Illustrations were complimentary and tasteful.

Great book I cant put it down! The way Karen writes is very intriguing and keeps you in tune. I really like how she discusses perfume history into the modern world of perfumery. This is a must buy for anyone interested in making their own perfumes or if your an avid perfume lover. I will be placing another order on her other book soon. Thanks!

It's a nice interesting book. Beautiful photos. I wish it would have more recipes to try, but I guess the writer wants us to be just interested enough to want to take her perfume classes.

Another beautiful book by Karen Gilbert. It differs from Natural beauty in being more basic and talking about combining scents. There is so much wonderful information here. I have studied essential oils extensively and learned so much more from this book. I love Karens approach. Very step by step, practical and yet not many people teach about oils in such a practical manner. Wonderful and fun book!

The book is very well written and put together (although I did see one typing error!). I adore and love the outlay of the book from start to finish. The writer also includes names of places to visit (if one is interested) for perfumery. A good quality and sumptuous book.

Just what I was looking for. A great introduction without being too complicated. The book you need if you have an interest in perfumery and don't quite know where to start.

Karen Gilbert has become one of my favourite authors in the area of natural beauty, including fragrance, and I own two books by this author. The book is extremely well-organized, and has so many wonderful recipes and other information. I am so glad I bought this book! This is the next best thing to taking one of Gilbert's classes.

This is a great book - very interesting and informative, and full of ideas for creating your own perfumed items. It is knowledgeable and well-written, and the recipes are good and tempting.

FABULOUS and gorgeous book - recipes, information and so so pretty - makes a beautiful gift but order 2 because you will want one for your own when you see it!