Hello again. I'm toying with the idea of buying Val Andrews' 3-part Manual of Balloon Modelling, but I thought I'd better ask first. I'm looking for a complete encyclopaedia of balloon modelling, you see. Is this the work I'm looking for or are there more comprehensive works I should be considering?

The Val Andrews I know is/was a UK magician of a few years ago so if it's the same person the material may be slightly dated.

Ah! So it is the same Val Andrews. I was beginning to wonder if he might be.

I get the distinct impression that ballooning is developing fast and that there are some exciting discoveries being made, so maybe I should simply concentrate on learning the foundations fro now.

Having seen some of the astonishing work being done (Sabina Kellner's models spring immediately to mind) I can see just how far I have to go from my standard balloon dog/giraffe/mouse-type thing!

a great way to build up your skillis Tomo is to come to a jam or care and share day - they are good fun and you will learn a lot

Quote from: "Smiggle"a great way to build up your skillis Tomo is to come to a jam or care and share day - they are good fun and you will learn a lot

Yes, I think that's the way forward.

I'm just south of Manchester. Are there any meetings planned nearby?

I think Graham has a care and share planned for there - there is a list in the events section of this forum -there is also the Lee and Levet roadshow aimed at new twisters

Full details are now up and all dates are confirmed and on the website at; http://www.sempertexballoons.co.uk
under the care and share days

That's excellent. I should be able to make the Manchester one.