Approximately 126 pp. manual on various handicrafts produced by the WPA, illustrated. Small quarto (10 3/4 x 8 inches). Original color-printed wrappers, with original rattan ties. Some chipping and wear along edges, light dust-staining and very minor spotting to front cover, interior very clean, overall very good. Topeka: Kansas Adult Education Project/Work Projects Administration, n.d. (circa 1940).

This illustrated manual was produced by the Kansas Adult Education Project, a Works Progress Administration (WPA) initiative in Kansas in the wake of the Great Depression. The manual lists Irene D. Weigand as the State Supervisor of the Adult Education Project, and William H. Campbell as the Technical Supervisor of the Crafts division. The introductory text notes that "This manual is compiled for the people who desire to become better acquainted with a language that is universal and owes allegiance to no one group, race, or boundary...It is not necessary to be an artist to be a good craftsman. However, it is essential that the craftsman have a feeling for beauty and suitability of materials."

Another preface, titled "Crafts in Terms of Adult Education", says that "Economic readjustment and a series of world and national crises are resulting in a nervous strain felt by everyone. Naturally there exists a need for some form of relaxation...The craft program of the Adult Education Project plans to fill some of these needs. This program is based upon the theory that everyone has leisure time. Everyone has a few hours each week which he can use as he wishes. For these people, classes in crafts are made available in many towns and communities in Kansas. In these classes it is possible for people to work with their hands and minds at tasks unlike work they usually do. While working with the hands in this way, the nervous tension and worries are forgotten and confidence in self is renewed."

The manual is divided into ten sections: Batik, Block Printing, Ceramics, Chair Caning, Jewelry, Leather, Metal Work, Silk Screen, Weaving, and Wood Working. Each section begins with a silk-screened title page, has its own table of contents, and then goes over various details, materials, and methodology of each craft. There are specific instructions to follow, advice on design, and helpful illustrations to follow.

A rare WPA manual; as of May 2026, OCLC lists this guide but does not show a single holding of it anywhere.

Book ID: 53696

Price: $2,500.00