I can't imagine this hasn't already been addressed somewhere, but I scanned the Class Info and eBook boards and didn't find the answer...

What are the advantages of taking a class as opposed to buying an eBook?

There are a couple of advantages. First, the moderators watch the class section very carefully to answer any questions you might have as soon as possible. Then its a place you can ask questions and get answers, show your work and then you can enter your baby into the class contest to win a kit!!

The E books are sent to you complete via email with the lessons from the class, and you work on your own. The Classes are done in a group setting. We all start at the same time. There is question answer section for each lesson, where you can view others questions about that lesson or ask one your self. We also have a critique section, where everyone will post pics of their babies as we go through the lessons and get feedback from the moderators and everyone in the class. There is a contest at the end of the class where anyone on the forum can vote and the winner will get a free kit for an upcoming class and a logo. So, I think it really depends if you like the idea of working with a group and knowing that there are another 20 gals right there with you working on the same kit.
Oh! You also get a REAL logo just for joining a class. Hope that helps. Either way, we are all here to help!

Thanks, that definitely helps.

I'm short on fun-money lately, so I'll probably stick with the eBooks. When will the new peaches & cream book be available to non-class members?

Cool. I'll keep an eye out.

Have you ever considered granting ebook buyers access to the relevant class forums after the classes have concluded? It'd be interesting to see how other artists worked their way through the lessons.

I"m struggling with this myself. I suppose I should start with an eBook and then take a class. "?" Not sure yet. I want to pull in some supplies first, then decide. Of course, I may buy the eBook asap to bide my time before I get everything I need to get started.

How do online classes work? Do we all use a live webcam or what?

no, when class starts Lara posts a lesson everyday , which is pictures of what your sapose to do while she was doing it , what her paint looks like after she mixed it , and what her doll parts look like after shes done whatver step shes on on that day , then after like 11 lesson you will work from the e-book that will be supplied , does that make sense ?

Its not just pictures. They are step by step instructions on how Lara has achieved a particular skin type like what the class is named. I do highly recommend the Strawberry and Cream eBook to begin because that eBook has short little videos to show you live what she means by something in addition to the rest.

Classes are work at your own pace and you have 6 weeks to complete them. There are sections after each lesson to ask questions, get help, etc. You get a free eBook after the lessons are posted so you can continue to work on your own if 6 weeks isn't enough time for you.

That makes sense. Thanks much.

So then, all the ebooks that are out are classes that were already taken?
Boy, I have a lot of catching up to do.
There are two ebooks I'm super interested in, I'll probably get them right away.

I believe I saw a more general eBook thread somewhere but I just can't find it now!!

Anyway, I have a question: which book is the most thorough on putting the body together? This is a subject I'm most worried about (aside from rooting) and YouTube has virtually nothing on it. I mean, the most in depth with filling it moreso than pulling it shut on the limbs. I'm worried about stockings and beads, and placement, etc.

EDIT: oh nevermind. I just bought the Strawberries & Cream and the AA/Ethnic eBooks (call it a splurge!). They look very insightful. I want the Olive skin one when it comes out too!