News Blog @ Wellington City Libraries

Autumn is well and truly here and we can start thinking about getting the garden ready to withstand those winter woes. We can also prepare for the spring by planning what bulbs to plant in the backyard. Our selection will help you do these two things and more: how to make your garden beautiful for both seasons. We also have books for you to get your home ready for a Mid-Winter Feast with plenty of Kiwi recipes to make the occasion a success. Enjoy!

Backyard winter gardening : vegetables fresh and simple, in any climate, without artificial heat or electricity – the way it’s been done for 2,000 years / Caleb Warnock.
“Without fresh, all-natural winter gardening in the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries people would have starved to death. The good news is that feeding your family fresh food from your own backyard garden all winter long is far easier and less time-consuming than you might imagine. And you won’t find better-tasting food at any price!” (Amazon.com summary)

The winter garden : structure, planting and romance in the garden in winter / Eluned Price, photographs by Clive Nichols.
“After the exuberance of summer, the garden in its winter transformation is every gardener’s greatest challenge. The Winter Garden looks at the ways of creating a garden that is beautiful in adversity, when the weather is cold and inclement. With the loss of the rich colours of autumn, it explores the importance of shape and form, of choosing trees as much for their leafless winter frosts as for their summer foliage and textures. Using beautiful and varied gardens as examples, it looks at ways of shaping the garden with topiary, trellis and tunnels, of providing form with architectural planting, of using statuary, urns and tubs. This beautifully illustrated book explores what it is that makes the winter garden magical, unpacking the aesthetic thrill that goes with the sight of the ghostly white arcs of bramble or the flaming wands of dogwood, the clean frame of yew hedging or the filigree of interlaced leafless branches.” (Amazon.co.uk summary)

Best winter plants / Stefan Buczacki ; special photography Andrew Lawson.
“Gardening expert Stefan Buczacki presents advice and information on growing the best winter plants. A reference for both beginning and expert gardeners about all aspects of plant care from propogation and pruning, to problem solving.” (Amazon.co.uk summary)

Spring bulbs / Peter McHoy ; photography by Peter Anderson.
“Tolerant and trouble free, spring bulbs can play an essential part in any garden. This guide for growers is full of advice on cultivating bulbs and protecting them from harm done by pests and diseases.” (Amazon.co.uk summary)

Winter house / Charlotte Moss ; written with Jennifer Cegielski ; photographs by Jason Dewey.
“One of America’s top interior designers presents a beautifully illustrated guidebook for creating a comfortable, inviting winter home. With 200 color photographs.” (Syndetics summary)

The garden in autumn / by Allen Lacy.
“Gardeners who believe that autumn brings merely clean-up tasks and the occasional frowsy chrysanthemum will think differently after reading this book. Lacy ( Farther Afield ), gardening writer for the New York Times , has a vested interest: “to encourage fellow gardeners to pay attention to the neglected but glorious possibilities of the fall garden.” Before reading more than a handful of pages, any floraphile will be feverishly taking notes on new plants and plant combinations to try, and eagerly awaiting the waning of the year. Rather than offer gardening advice for the whole U.S., Lacy sticks to what he knows: the plants that thrive in his region of southern New Jersey. But as he points out, in quoting Spanish philosopher Miguel de Unamuno, “the universal is the particular and the concrete, not the abstract or the general”–plenty of information here pertains to gardens in any climate. Lacy devotes a chapter each to lingering summer perennials, fall-flowering perennials, bulbs, grasses, annuals and woody plants. An epilogue describing blooms in December will have gardeners in higher latitudes sighing enviously. Included are an extensive list of nurseries, a bibliography and an index of plant names and nurseries. Photos not seen by PW. Advertising; author tour; Garden Book Club main selection; first serial to HG; second serial to Horticulture and Organic Gardening. (Oct.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved” (Publisher Weekly)

Taste of New Zealand winter / Robyn Martin.
“A recipe book for the winter months, illustrated with full colour photograph. The chapters range from ’stock pot saviours’ and ‘fireside meals’ through ‘hot and hearty’ and ‘things to make on rainy days’ to ‘winter puds’. It is a companion book to Taste of New Zealand Summer. The author is food editor of the New Zealand Woman’s Weekly.” (Syndetics summary)

How gardens affect us and what constitutes good taste in a garden are some of the questions Rory Stuart asks in his book “What are gardens for?”  In this post you will see that philosophising on gardening  is a major theme for these recent picks.  The other theme popping up here is that of history, the tracing of traditions and personal stories.

 The glory of the garden : a horticultural celebration from the pages of Country Life / Country Life editor Mark Hedges ; compiled and edited by Sam Carter & Kate Gatacre ; series consultant John Goodall.
“Gardening writing goes to the heart of the iconic brand that is Country Life. Gertrude Jekyll, the doyenne of gardening art, was a driving force at the birth of Country Life in 1897, and set the standard for some of the best English gardening writing. The influence of this writing on twentieth century English garden design is hard to overestimate. Yet here all is presented in accessible articles and choice photos. Within the pages of The Glory of the Garden you can trace the influence of the Arts and Crafts movement, the Edwardian revolution in garden design, the Italianate obsessions and the eccentric longing for an Olde English style.” (Syndetics summary)      
                                                                            
Philosophy in the garden / Damon Young ; text illustrations by Daniel Keating. 
“Why did Marcel Proust have bonsai beside his bed? What was Jane Austen doing, coveting an apricot? How was Friedrich Nietzsche inspired by his ‘thought tree’? In Philosophy in the Garden, Damon Young explores one of literature’s most intimate relationships: authors and their gardens. For some, the garden provided a retreat from workaday labour; for others, solitude’s quiet counsel. For all, it played a philosophical role: giving their ideas a new life. Philosophy in the Garden reveals the profound thoughts discovered in parks, backyards and pot-plants. It does not provide tips for mowing overgrown cooch grass, or mulching a dry Japanese maple. It is a philosophical companion to the garden’s labours and joys.”(Syndetics summary)

What are gardens for? / Rory Stuart.  
“What do we expect of gardens – when we make them and when we visit them? Could we get more from them, if we thought harder about what it is we want and why we make gardens? This book approaches the experience of being in a garden from many different angles, questioning many of our easily-adopted assumptions and suggesting ways of getting more from any garden, whether it is our own or one we are visiting.” (Syndetics summary) 

    Flowers in the world’s most beautiful gardens / photographed by Alain Le Toquin ; text by Yves-Marie Allain ; translated from the French by Nicholas Elliott.  
“Flowers in the World’s Most Beautiful Gardensputs the spotlight on the star of the garden—the flower. Tracing the history of flower gardens from the Middle Ages to today, the book discusses the types of flowers commonly planted, the landscape designs, the advances in technology, and how these practices have changed throughout the centuries. Illustrated with more than 180 exquisite photographs by Alain Le Toquin, this book features the world’s most extraordinary flower gardens, showcasing gardens in countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, New Zealand, Russia, the United States, Thailand, and many more.” (Adapted from Syndetics Summary)

Growing honest food : an oasis of Italian tradition in the suburbs / Gabriella Gomersal-Hubbard.
“A barren block of land in the Australian suburbs has, over a period of 30 years, been transformed by the Sicilianos’ passion, daring, perserverance and hard work into a slice of the Calabrian countryside – a lush and wonderful oasis. At a mere 1.2 ha., Rose Creek Estate is probably the smallest vineyard in the nation and, at less than 17 kilometres from the city centre, certainly the most urban. Yet it is astounding just how productive this small piece of land in a quiet residential corner of Melbourne is. Cherished family and regional traditions, steeped in an ancient culture, remain a large part of this couple’s lives, guiding them in their efforts to create their own piece of paradise. The Sicilianos’ enterprise is the embodiment of these ideas and living proof that such pursuits can build both a profitable business and a healthy and intensely satisfying way of life.” (Adapted from Syndetics Summary)

Fern fever : the story of Pteridomania / Sarah Whittingham. 
“Of all the many passions and crazes in nineteenth-century gardening and natural history, none was as long lasting or as wide reaching as fern fever, or Pteridomania as it became known.  The obsession with ferns was not confined to a few professional botanists but it affected men, women and children from all classes through the British Isles, the Empire and America. Their overwhelming desire to ‘capture’ a rare specimen led them to wade through streams, scale rock faces, descend gorges and lean over fast-flowing rivers.  Accidents were common, sometimes fatal, and over-collecting and even fern stealing were rife. Of all the many passions and crazes in nineteenth-century gardening and natural history, none was as long lasting or as wide reaching as fern fever, or Pteridomania as it became known Fern Fever.” (Adapted from Syndetics Summary)

Adagio : living & gardening mindfully / Trisha Dixon.
“Adagio is a charming treatise on slow gardening and the importance of slowing down and enjoying life. At the same time, it has an environmental message regarding living ethically and sustainably. This message is delivered in Trisha Dixon’s inimitable style, as she seamlessly blends personal anecdote with musings and facts, drawing on her gardening background and her wide-ranging interests in philosophy, music, art, nature and the environment. It will appeal to gardeners and dreamers alike – anyone, in fact, who yearns for a more environmentally-attuned life.” (Syndetics Summary)

Wartime farm / Peter Ginn, Ruth Goodman & Alex Langlands. 
“During World War Two Britain had to look to the land to provide the produce it had previously shipped in from abroad, meaning huge changes on both the agricultural and domestic scenes. Accompanying an 8-part BBC series and written by the three presenters who spend a year living on a reconstructed farm from the era, Wartime Farm sets these changes within a historical context and looks at the day-to-day life of that time. Exploring a fascinating chapter in Britain’s recent history, we see how our predecessors lived and thrived in difficult conditions with extreme frugality and ingenuity. From growing your own vegetables and keeping chickens in the back yard, to having to ‘make do and mend’, many of the challenges faced by wartime Britons have resonance today. Fascinating historical detail and atmospheric story-telling make this a truly compelling read.” (Amazon)

Auckland’s remarkable urban forest / Mike D. Wilcox.  ”
“A comprehensive account of the trees and forests of Auckland City, New Zealand. It covers native bush remnants, native revegetation, exotic woodlands, parks, campuses, cemeteries, historic homesteads, street trees, home gardens, notable trees, flowering trees, tree health, and utilisation of the urban forest. A particular feature is the description of the parks in each of Auckland’s Local Board areas. The book will be of interest and relevance to park users, gardeners, botanists and ecologists, arborists, dendrologists, Council managers, planners, developers, environmental volunteer groups, and citizens and visitors to Auckland in general.” (Fishpond)

Enjoying crafting? Start this New Year with lots of inspiring ideas and smart choices found in this fabulous collection of new library books. Take a look at some vibrant crochet designs as well as, various innovative quilting and patchwork projects for you and the family. Enjoy the challenge!

Find & keep / Beci Orpin.
“Be inspired with Beci Orpin’s beautfiul new book Find and Keep. This gorgeous ideas and craft book features all of Beci’s favourite things, from wall murals such as life-size paper Christmas trees, to embroideries and herb gardens and picnic fare. Discover where Beci gets her inspiration from and follow her in her studio, at home and out and about as she gathers ideas for her projects. Learn how these ideas come to life and then apply them yourself with 25 make-at-home projects that cover a wide range of crafty mediums, from collages to cushions and t-shirts to teacups. With simple step-by-step instructions and tips and beautiful page design by Michelle Mackintosh, these cool crafty ideas are new and fresh and bound to appeal to fans of Beci’s work and crafting in general. So, get inspired, get creative and go find, make and keep!” (Adapted from amazon.co.uk summary)

Fun family crafts / Kelly Doust.
“Demonstrates how to make crafts with children that can be used around the house, with a list of materials, instructions, and tips on tasks that are most suitable for children for each project.” (Syndetics summary)

A passion for quilting : 35 step-by-step patchwork and quilting projects to stitch / Nicki Trench.
“With bags, quilts, blankets, pillows, table runners and more, A Passion for Quilting is filled with innovative quilting and patchwork projects to try. With 35 eye-catching designs to sew, every stitcher will fall in love with the projects in A Passion for Quilting. With something for everyone, Nicki Trench employs quilting, appliqué, embroidery and patchwork techniques to create items to make for the home, or to give as personal gifts to family and friends. Divided into four chapters, start by making Blankets and Quilts using colourful blocks and vintage fabrics. Take the picnic quilt out on a summer day or decorate your baby s crib with the cot quilt made with vintage fabrics. Carry Out is next, packed with projects for people who love bags. The glamour purse is covered with pretty yoyos while the beach bag is great for storing all your vacation essentials. Accessories and Gifts has book covers, needle cases, cushions and more that are certain to put a smile on the face of the recipient. In the final chapter, Kitchen and Dining Room, there are trivets, tea towels and chair seat covers to add colour to your culinary spaces. At the back you will find a handy techniques section explaining all the stitches you ll need to complete the projects. With creative ideas to inspire both beginners and more experienced stitchers, you are sure to find the perfect project to feed your crafting addictions!” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk summary)

Clever crocheted accessories : 25 quick weekend projects / edited Brett Bara.
“The ideal curator, Brett shares a first-rate lineup of projects. Whether you are a beginner or experienced crocheter, there is something for everyone: hats and caps, including a cloche, porkpie hat, and tam; scarves, shawls, and cowls, from chunky to drapey to snug; eye-catching mittens and arm warmers; delicate lace socks and cozy man-slippers; flirty bags; and sparkly jewelry. Each piece is designed with standout details so that even the simplest pattern has that “wow” factor by showcasing lust-worthy yarn, an unexpected technique, or a fun embellishment. Techniques you’ll discover include Tunisian crochet, broomstick lace, and Bruges lace. The all-star roster of designers includes Robyn Chachula, Doris Chan, Mari Lynn Patrick, Regina Gonzalez, Drew Emborsky, Linda Permann, Kristin Omdahl, Ellen Gormley, Cal Patch, Pamela Wynne, Linda Cyr, and Vickie Howell.” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk summary)

Quilt love : simple projects to stitch & treasure / Cassandra Ellis ; photography by Rachel Whiting.
“When scraps from personal items are incorporated, such as a baby blanket or a vintage T-shirt–that quilt becomes a cherished keepsake. A new take offers today’s quilters a modern twist on free-form, scrap, and patchwork quilting by combining fabric mementos into quilts.” (Syndetics summary)

Baby crochet : 20 hand-crochet designs for babies, newborn-24 months / Sandy Powers ; photography by Tara Renaud.
“This collection of crochet projects for boys and girls includes a range of hats (from a beanie to a newsboy), two cozy cocoons, bunting and baby blankets, a hooded sweater, legwarmers, mittens, booties, and four sets featuring body suit & hat, cocoon & hat, diaper cover, and more. The sizes range from newborn to 24 months.” (Syndetics summary)

Geek chic crochet : 35 retro-inspired projects that are off the hook / Nicki Trench.
“Capture the spirit of the sixties and seventies with these patterns for scarves, skirts, tank tops, turbans, and more. Do you have a passion for vintage fashion? If so, you’re guaranteed to love the 35 patterns in ‘Geek Chic Crochet’.” (Syndetics summary)

Crochet boutique : 30 simple, stylish hats, bags & accessories / Rachael Oglesby.
“This book was written with a beginning crocheter in mind. Despite all patterns having a skill level of “beginner” or “easy,” as an advanced crocheter I did find some projects I really liked. The Chain Scarf which is a scarf consisting of layers of chains made with the plain chain stitch was a great idea. I have some very ornate yarn that would be lost in a normal crocheted garment or accessory, but it definitely would look like “jewelry” used in this scarf. I also thought several of the hats were really cute and very practical, especially the Bubble Beret and the Slouchy Beanie.” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk summary)

Cast on, bind off : 54 step-by-step methods / Leslie Ann Bestor ; photography by John Polak.
“Discover the perfect beginning and ending for every knitting project! This one-of-a-kind reference presents more than 50 ways to cast on and bind off, creating edges that are tighter, looser, stretchier, lacier, longer-lasting, prettier–whatever your project needs, you’ll find it here. Detailed instructions for each technique are combined with step-by-step photography so that nothing is left to chance. At-a-glance charts identify the best cast on or bind off for various types of knitting, as well as cast on/bind off pairs that work well together. This indispensable guide will ensure that all of your knitting projects are polished and pleasing, from start to finish!” (from Syndetic summary)

Crazy-cool duct tape projects : fun and funky projects for fashion and flair / Marisa Pawelko.
“Marisa shares 24 of her best DIY Duct tape ideas, with step-by-step instructions and how-to pictures. You’ll learn how to make fashionable wearables like gloves, leg warmers, a kilt and a halter top. You’ll also find crafty ideas for functional items like a vase or night light. Projects cover a variety of skill levels, so you’ll get plenty of creative inspiration whether you’re just a beginner or an experienced Duct tape aficionado.” (Syndetics summary)

Side by side : 20 collaborative projects for crafting with your kids / Tsia Carson ; photographs by Meredith Heuer.
“Crafting is always more fun and more meaningful when it’s shared with those you love. Discover the joy of working alongside your child while creating arts and crafts that inspire. With these twenty whimsical projects in a variety of mediums, you and your child will find fun ways to work collaboratively and independently – together on the same project, or side-by-side on related projects”–Cover.

“Anna Maria’s needleworks notebook / Anna Maria Horner.
The book features four categories of needlework: cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery, and crewel. Each category offers advice on common tools used, Anna Maria’s favorite techniques, and hold-your-hand instruction on how to develop your own inspired patterns. In addition, each project journals her process right down to the precise fabrics and exact color number of every thread used in the beautifully photographed examples.” (Syndetics summary)

It’s all about the New Year in January and it was very tempting to offer you a selection of what’s new on the Home & Garden front in 2013. What about what is not so new and what you can re-use or recycle at home or in the garden? That might be a New Year resolution of yours to do less in the garden and to keep and transform home wares instead of chucking it away and buying new and expensive. And why not! We have a selection of books that might convince you to do just that.

Tomorrow’s garden : design and inspiration for a new age of sustainable gardening / text and photographs by Stephen Orr.
“Stephen Orr (gardening editorial director Martha Stewart Living magazine) shares his vision of 21st century gardening in over 200 gorgeous photographs he has taken of gardens in 10 US cities. Gardens now (and will in the future), he says, take into account local climates and ecosystems without sacrificing aesthetics. In sections titled “Garden where you live,” “Consider the materials,” and “Edible gardens and community” he indeed has his finger on the pulse of modern gardening’s commitment to sustainability coupled with fabulous design and passion for invoking a commonality of purpose. Street gardens, an urban apiary, gardens of stone and water, a modernist children’s garden, seaside gardens, and a family farm are but a few of the featured spaces, which along with Orr’s engaging narrative and judicious advice, make this a likely favorite among this year’s crop of gardening books. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)” (Syndetics summary)

Perennials for every purpose : choose the plants you need for your conditions, your garden, and your taste / Larry Hodgson.
“Perennials for Every Purpose This is a plant encyclopedia with a purpose! You’ll discover more than 1,000 perennials, organized by special feature (that’s the “purpose!”), such as bloom time or site condition. This makes it simple for you to choose plants according to your needs. You can go directly to the chapters that interest you most, whether they’re perennials that require very little care or ones that thrive in cool-summer climates. Plant lover Larry Hodgson lives in Quebec, where the winters are punishing to perennials. Undaunted, he has ventured where most gardeners wouldn’t dare, attempting to grow perennials that “just aren’t hardy there”– and succeeding! He has nursed usually tender perennials like hakone grass and monkey flowers through tough Quebec winters even though they’re supposedly not hardy north of Pennsylvania. He’s glad to share his tips for success.” (Syndetics summary)

Caring for perennials : what to do and when to do it / Janet Macunovich ; photographs by Steven Nikkila.
“With Macunovich’s techniques for prioritizing, planning, and record keeping, you’ll be able to grow a world-class perennial garden in an average of one hour of maintenance per 100 square feet per month.” (Syndetics summary)

Remake it : home : the essential guide to resourceful living with over 500 tricks, tips and inspirational designs / Henrietta Thompson ; illustrations by Neal Whittington.
“This is the indispensible, inspirational and practical guide to being resourceful by design in your home. Save money, save the planet and stay ahead in the style stakes: if theres something going spare, theres a use for it somewhere. With a wealth of tricks and tips, design examples from leading luminaries such as Jasper Morrison and Marcel Waanders, and step-by-step projects you can try around the house, Remake It: Home provides design inspiration and practical know how in equal measure. Smart, savvy, entertaining and fully illustrated throughout, this book will show you how to make the most of the things you already have in style.” (Amazon.co.uk summary)

Restore. Recycle. Repurpose. {create a beautiful home} / Randy Florke ; with Nancy J. Becker.
“Florke (Your House, Your Home) explores decorating every room of the home with flea market finds, a trend that’s been popular for years, with an eye toward sustainability. He intersperses his grandmother’s advice on household frugality with trivia about waste in the United States. Recommended where green-living guides are popular. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.” (Library Journal)

Salvage style : 45 home and garden projects using reclaimed architectural details / Joe Rhatigan with Dana Irwin.
“”Create something new with all the elegance of the original.”–”Better Homes & Gardens Decorating” “Recommended.”–”Library Journal” Even as a building gets renovated or demolished, it often yields authentic, irreplaceable, and sometimes historic architectural detailing. Out of the wreckage come one-of-a-kind, ornate weathered doorknobs, flooring, mantels, windows, and doors. Forty-five projects, developed by the finest craftspeople, focus on transforming your finds and giving them a whole new function. You’ll obtain tips on locating and selecting the best of these materials and crafting with wood, metal, glass, and mirrors. Begin your creative handiwork with such intriguing pieces as a Cabinet Door Picture Frame, Iron, and Funky Miscellany.” (Syndetics summary)

Leftover gourmet / Richard Till.
“Create delicious meals with this brilliant guide to making the most of the leftover food in your fridge, freezer or pantry.”(Syndetics summary)

Christmas is approaching and we have selected books that we hope will help you to achieve a memorable festive season. Whether your decorating your home, your garden or cooking for your guests, we have everything you need to spend a great Christmas at home.

Handmade Christmas : over fifty gorgeous projects to craft your own Christmas.
“Packed with budget-friendly ideas and creative ways to make your Christmas truly special, this collection of delightful projects has everything you’ll need to celebrate Christmas in style. With over 40 projects, Handmade Christmas has plenty for beginners, as well as more elaborate designs for experienced crafters. The book contains stunning photographs, templates and step-by-step instructions for beautiful handmade details, including gorgeous cards, quirky gifts, delicious baked goods and vintage-inspired decorations. All of the projects are easily adapted to suit your own distinctive style to add a personal touch to Christmas”. (Syndetics summary)

Candlelit Christmas : decorating with candles for the holiday season / John Terrell Fry ; photographs by Nancy Nolan.
“As Fry proved in his first book, “The Candlelit Home,” there is no more stylish, effective, and inexpensive way to transform a home’s atmosphere than with the judicious use of candles. This book illuminates easy, inexpensive, and dramatic ways to change the mood with candles.” (Syndetics summary)

Decorate for the Christmas season / the editors of House beautiful magazine ; text by Sally Clark.
“Here are all of the magazine’s very best, most creative ideas, all gathered in one elegant, lushly illustrated volume, rich with imaginative plans for decorating during this most festive season. Christmas angels nestle in yards of pleated silk ribbon, and holly and ivy brighten mantels. Dozens of wonderful trees and unique ornaments, as well as beautiful ideas for wrapping gifts, bring the Christmas spirit to life.” (Syndetics summary)

Vintage Christmas crafts / Sara Toliver.
“Presented here are four unique ways to go back in time and add charm to the holidays: Victorian Vintage, Shabby Chic, Country Style, and Personal Vintage. For each, you’ll find directions for projects, ideas for decorating, and enticing pictures to inspire and evoke nostalgia. Craft cardboard villages just like Grandma used to. Make new ornaments look antique and aged, as if they were passed down through the generations. From a gathering of lighted tapes glowing on the floor, to red ribbons tied around the banister, to wreaths, Santa Claus figurines, and food heaped everywhere, each design is glorious.” (Syndetics summary)

Planet Christmas : the world’s most extreme Christmas decorations / Chuck Smith.
“No one can resist smiling at these houses a-dazzle with twinkling lights and decked with flying reindeer, jolly snowmen, inflatable Santas, plastic sleighs–and every other sign that hearts are overflowing with Christmas cheer. It’s become a holiday tradition around the globe to drive through the neighborhood to look at these extravagantly decorated homes. “Planet Christmas” offers a world tour of the best and the brightest, from Auckland, New Zealand, where the Ballentine family pumps clouds of artificial snow off their balcony, to Peters Township, PA, where sightseers view Santa and Mrs. Claus presiding over a Santa’s Workshop 50 yards wide.” (Syndetics summary)

Have yourself a very vintage Christmas : crafts, decorating tips, and recipes, 1920s-1960s / Susan Waggoner ; photographs by Jeff Elkins.
“Susan Waggoner, author of STC’s successful “It’s a Wonderful Christmas”, “Under the Tree”, and “Christmas Memories” is back again with another instalment of nostalgic art and engaging text about the wonders of the Christmas season in years gone by. “Have Yourself a Very Vintage Christmas” is a natural follow-on and will appeal to buyers of the previous books as it is loaded with advice and how to information designed to help readers get the look for every decade from the 1920s through to the 1960s. Waggoner takes this book one step further by combining decorating ideas and inspiration with delightful nostalgia and the crafts projects readers have been craving. The book will include decorating ideas and projects from vintage magazines, crafts projects and step-by-step instructions to re-create some of the most popular items from each decade, recipes for homemade treats like walnut fudge, divinity, and butter mints, and of course the popular first person recollections of the way Christmas really looked from the 20s to the 60s.” (Summary from Amazon.co.uk)

Gluten-free and vegan holidays : celebrating the year with simple, satisfying recipes and menus / Jennifer Katzinger.
“Entertaining friends and family can be a challenge when youre vegan and gluten-free. It can be even trickier when youre not, but a family member or close friend is. So what do you do when you want to prepare a gluten-free and vegan holiday dinner for eight? Turn to Gluten-Free and Vegan Holidays for help! Jennifer Katzinger, author of the popular Flying Aprons Gluten-Free & Vegan Baking Book makes celebrating the holidays simple and stylish with seventy delicious, satisfying recipes for our most cherished holidays. Here youll find both sweet and savoury gluten-free and vegan menus for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts, for a romantic Valentines Day dinner for two, for springtime Easter and Passover celebrations and many more. Whether youre gluten-free and vegan or not, youll please the ones you love with these simple yet sophisticated and pleasing menus.” (Summary from Amazon.co.uk)

We have an inspiring, visual and anedoctal garden book line up this month. “Seeds: Time Capsules of life” is certainly a notable entry and a bit different from the usual fare. The supermagnified closeup images  of different seeds are truly stunning and verge on the miraculous. There is something here for anyone who has a love for gardens, plants and flowers. 

Seeds : time capsules of life / Rob Kesseler & Wolfgang Stuppy ; preface by HRH the Prince of Wales ; edited by Alexandra Papadakis.
“Seeds are the most complex organs plants ever produce. A major keystone in the evolution of land plants, the first seeds appeared some 360 million years ago. Since then they have developed into highly sophisticated propagules that have enabled plants to dominate the Earth’s surface and conquer almost every possible habitat from the Antarctic to the hottest deserts. The diversity of shapes and sizes encountered in seeds is nearly endless and ranges from the impressive Seychelles nut at twenty kilos to the dustlike seeds of the orchids. No matter how small, packed into every seed is the complete genetic information needed to give rise to a new plant, whether it is a tiny herb or a giant rainforest tree. True time capsules of life, seeds may travel thousands of miles and, if necessary, wait for hundreds of years before germinating”. (Amazon.com)

The roots of my obsession : thirty great gardeners reveal why they garden / Thomas C. Cooper, editor.
“Collects essays by thirty world-famous gardeners on why they garden, whether it be for aesthetic beauty, food production, or environmental sustainability, and includes contributions by Stephen Orr, Anne Raver, and Helen Dillon.” (Syndetics Summary)

The seed underground : a growing revolution to save food / Janisse Ray.
“The Seed Underground is a journey to the frontier of seed-saving. It is driven by stories, both the author’s own and those from people who are waging a lush and quiet revolution in thousands of gardens across America to preserve our traditional cornucopia of food by simply growing old varieties and eating them. The Seed Underground pays tribute to time-honored and threatened varieties, deconstructs the politics and genetics of seeds, and reveals the astonishing characters who grow, study, and save them”. (Amazon.com)

Permaculture design : a step-by-step guide / by Aranya.
“Are you excited about permaculture but unclear how to put it into practice for yourself? In this unique, full colour guide, experienced permaculture teacher Aranya leads you through the design process from beginning to end, using clear explanations, flowcharts and diagrams. It is based on course worksheets which have been designed, refined and tested on students over time. Linking theory to practice, he places the ethics, principles, philosophies, tools and techniques directly into the context of the process itself. While written for anyone with a basic grasp of permaculture, this book also has plenty to offer the more experienced designer.This guide covers:Systems and patterns ~ Working as part of a design team ~ Land and non-land based design ~ Design frameworks ~ Site surveying and map making ~ Interviewing clients ~ Working with large client groups ~ Identifying functions ~ Choosing systems and elements ~ Placement and integration ~ Creating a design proposal ~ Project management ~ Presenting your ideas to clients ~ and much more.A great reference for anyone who has done, or is thinking of doing, any kind of permaculture course.” (Syndetics summary)
 
The gardenist : a new way to create inspiring garden spaces / text and photography by Michael McCoy.
” Michael McCoy is ‘The Gardenist’: garden designer, author, broadcaster and obsessive home gardener. In this bold new look at gardens, he shares the secret to understanding what makes a good garden, and shows you how to plan and create your own. ‘The Gardenist’ teases out the anatomy of gardens to discover the different roles plant types play”.(Syndetics summary).

 Natural companions : the garden lover’s guide to plant combinations / Ken Druse ; botanical photographs by Ellen Hoverkamp.
“In Natural Companions, acclaimed garden writer Ken Druse presents recipes for perfect plant pairings using diverse species that look great together and bloom at the same time. Organized by theme within seasons, topics include color, fragrance, foliage, grasses, edible flowers and much more, all presented in photographs of gardens that show planted combinations from a wide variety of climates and conditions. Natural Companions also features more than one hundred special botanical images of amazing depth and color created in collaboration with artist Ellen Hoverkamp using modern digital technology.Filled with an incredible amount of horticultural guidance, useful plant recommendations, and gardening lore—all written in Druse’s charming, witty style—this book is a must-have for gardeners and lovers of plants and flowers. ” (Syndetics summary)

The thrifty gardener / Alys Fowler ; photography by Simon Wheeler. 
“Gardner’s World presenter Alys Fowler shows us how gardening is something you do, not something you buy. You don’t have to spend money to have a great garden. Slow gardening – like slow food – is taking time to savour. It’s the process, not this sudden transformation that matters. When you build a little, dig a bit, plant a little, harvest often and more importantly don’t try and do it all at once, nature will work for you. For this is gardening that won’t cost the earth. This is a book that will eliminate the intimidation factor and reveal the ins and outs of soil, seeds, sowing and growing. Designed to be highly appropriate for beginners, it will cover the basics like planning, planting and pruning using organic and inexpensive methods. Its quirky projects and thrifty ethic will mean that it reaches beyond the usual gardening audience – this book is for those who would rather be found hunting through a skip than be seen in a garden centre”. (Amazon.co.uk)

Gardens for all seasons / Mary Horsfall.
“Gardens for All Seasons is a gardening lifestyle book by bestselling author Mary Horsfall, celebrating the role of gardens in our lives and advising on the timing of jobs in the gardening year throughout Australia. Monthly chapters include topics such as planning, bushfire preparation, watering, pot plant care, mulching, weeding, fertilising, pruning, propagating, pest control, what to plant for different climate zones and what garden venues and events to visit. Mary details her own gardening year, including jobs done, fruits and vegetables harvested, food cooked based on the harvest, what was in flower and wildlife observations – all on a month by month basis. Each chapter includes a special topic of the month, such as fun for kids in the garden, biodiversity, manipulating microclimate, and fragrance and first aid.” (Syndetics summary)

This selection of new books will be irrisitible for those with a sweet tooth. Offerings include delectable baked treats like cream puffs, cakes, puddings, tarts, slices, biscuits, fruit loaves, caramel and butterscotch custards, cheesecakes….and so it goes.

Little Squares & Slices / [food director, Pamela Clark].
“As the title suggests, this is a book full of delicious little squares and slices that can be eaten for morning or afternoon tea, as a lunchbox treat or as a heavenly after-dinner indulgence. Some of them are rich, luscious and decadent little mouthfuls (especially the ones made from chocolate and coffee, caramel and butterscotch and custard and cheesecake) some are more restrained (those made from oats and grains, and fruit and nut). All are irresistible and with 80 recipes included, there is sure to be something to suit everybody’s taste.” (Global Books)

Delicious : Simply the Best : Celebrating 10 Delicious Years / Valli Little.
“This is a celebration of what delicious does best – inspiring yet accessible recipes that are perfect for novice cooks as well as experienced foodies looking for new ideas.” (Library Catalogue)

Pastries & Puffs / food director, Pamela Clark.
“A beautiful little hardback book all about puffs, pastries and little cakes. There are irresistible cream puffs, eclairs and mini croquembouche with step-by-step photographs to show you how to make them — they are much easier than they look!” (Library Catalogue)

Sweet! / Sally Wise.
“Like all of us Sally Wise loves a sweet treat, at the end of the day, in the middle of the afternoon – or any other time. Here she has drawn on her talents as an everyday cook and a mother of six, including one child with coeliac disease, to create a book of delicious treats from old fashioned custards and puddings to tarts and slices, from cookies and biscuits to cakes of all sizes and varieties, from fruit pies to confectionary.” (Global Books)

Coming Home / Cathy Armstrong ; photography by Michele Aboud.
In Coming Home, Cathy Armstrong shares her favourite recipes from a lifetime of cherished moments, alongside homespun craft projects and cherished memories…” (Library Catalogue)

Treats from Little and Friday / Kim Evans ; photography by Rene Vaile.
“Owner of two Auckland cafes, Little and Friday, shares her recipes for tarts, biscuits, savouries and cakes, adapted for the home cook.” (Library Catalogue)

The Sweet Life : The Basics and Beyond– / Kate Bracks.
“Indulge your own sweet tooth with this glorious book of baked treats and dessert recipes from Australia’s MasterChef 2011 winner; and don’t forget the golden rule — always lick the bowl!” (Library Catalogue)

The Afternoon Tea Collection / [food director, Pamela Clark].
“Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to entertain guests. This beautiful paperback is a bumper bind-up collection of all the delicate morsels that are perfect for afternoon tea. From dainty savoury bites and sandwiches, our famous scones, delectable sweet tarts, biscuits and slices, to fruit loaves and classic cakes, this is an ideal Christmas gift.” (Global Books)

The Hairy Bikers’ Big Book of Baking / [Si King & Dave Myers].
“With their irrepressible enthusiasm for great food, Si King and Dave Myers AKA the Hairy Bikers travel the length and breadth of Europe to discover the best baking recipes from the Continent. From Norway to Southern Spain, the guys eat their way across ten countries, making friends and swapping recipes along the way.” (Library Catalogue)

In our picks this month: lots of inspiration for healthy, delicious eating! Bon appétit!

Portion Size Me : A Kid-driven Plan to a Healthier Family / Marshall Reid and Alexandra Reid.
“Hi my name is Marshall Reid. When I was ten I asked my mom if we could make a change and try to be healthy for a month. This book is the story of my family’s journey to healthier living. I don’t want to spoil anything other than it was a success! So come on, let’s Portion Size Me!” (Book Jacket)

Love Italian Food : Recipes for Friends and Family from a Home in Asolo / Maddalena Caruso ; [with photography by Stefano Scatà].
“At last, a book that will transport you straight to Italy to enjoy fresh seasonal produce for every occasion and to celebrate the glorious diversity of Italian home cooking.” (Book Jacket)

Pure Vegan : 70 Rcipes for Bautiful Meals and Clean Lving / by Joseph Shuldiner ; photographs by Emily Brooke Sandor and Joseph Shuldiner.
“Forget restrictions and rigidity, and leap into the joy of pure vegetarianism: an exuberant celebration of food, the earth and your life. Your plate will overflow with brilliant colors, rich flavors, and life-enriching nutrients, satisfying your mind, body, and – last not least – taste buds.” (Book Jacket)

Practical Paleo : a customized approach to health and a whole-foods lifestyle / Diane Sanfilippo.
“Practical Paleo is the resource you’ll reach for again and again, whether you’re looking for information on healthy living, delicious recipes, or easy-to-understand answers to your questions about how a Paleo lifestyle can benefit you, your family and your friends.” (Book Jacket)

Eat to Beat Cholesterol / Nicole Senior & Veronica Cuskelly.
“Eat to Beat Cholesterol is not just another diet or cook book. It can tip the balance towards a healthy heart and make healthy living a reality for you and your family. In this full updated edition, you can discover the truly delicious world of heart-friendly foods.” (Library Catalogue)

Quinoa for Families / Rena Patten.
“Rena’s back, with more delicious, simple recipes using everyone’s favourite supergrain – quinoa. Whether or not you’ve read Cooking with Quinoa, this book is the perfect introduction to the seed, quinoa, or the next must-have cookbook for your collection.” (Global Books)

Start Fresh : Your Child’s Jump Start to Lifelong Healthy Eating / Tyler Florence ; photographs by John Lee.
“Chef Florence believes that everybody deserves to eat delicious, flavorful food prepared with care and the freshest ingredients – and that goes for babies, too. In “Start Fresh,” he takes the expertise he has used to create his own line of organic baby food and presents quick, user-friendly recipes for 60 purees packed with simple, easy-to-digest fruits, vegetables, and grains.” (Syndetics summary)

Everyday Paleo Family Cookbook : Real Food for Real Life / Sarah Fragoso ; [recipe photos by Michael J. Lang].
Featured are more than eighty delicious, easy-to-prepare recipes that are free of grains, dairy, sugar, and legumes.

The Accidental Vegan / Devra Gartenstein
“In the last decade, veganism has moved into the mainstream as home cooks seek out healthy, fresh, economical, and environmentally sustainable foods. Omnivorous author Devra Gartenstein’s pioneering classic vegan cookbook, first published in 2000, gets a timely make-over with 20 new recipes, simplified instructions, and a focus on fresh and local ingredients.” (Syndetics summary)

Healthy in a Hurry / text, Karen Ansel ; recipes, Charity Ferreira ; photographs, Maren Caruso.
“Healthy in a hurry : easy, good-for-you recipes for every meal of the day.” (Book Jacket)

Want some tips on how to make your backyard an urban santuary? What is gardenalia? How can you work reclaimed materials into your  home and make it stylish?  These questions and more are covered in our picks of the new gardening and DIY books for October. These books are packed with advice on how to grow food, make your garden dog-friendly, and run your life with the minimum fuss and with maximum flair! Have a browse!

Urban sanctuary : designing small gardens / Janine Mendel.
“Australian landscape design is eclectic but there is no doubt that we love to be outdoors, and with the population set to rise, whether we like it or not we will be left with smaller and smaller outdoor spaces in which to enjoy our way of life.” (Library Catalogue)

Gardenalia : furnishing your garden with flea market finds, country collectables and architectural salvage / Sally Coulthard.
“Gardenalia provides the inspiration and the know-how for creating a perfect outdoor room. In the first section of the book Sally Coulthard guides the reader through the myriad choices of recycled and reclaimed materials and objects you can employ in your garden to inject style and personality.  All types of furniture – from classical benches to weather-beaten old tables and retro deckchairs – can create stylish areas for dining and relaxing, while containers and tools provide the perfect finishing touches.  A host of inventive ideas show you how to breathe new life and uses into salvaged pieces. Gardenalia offers practical guidance for the perennial garden tasks of planning your space, incorporating seating and eating areas and creating exciting backdrops and structures for your plants.” (Amazon)

The great Reclaiming style / by Maria Speake & Adam Hills of Retrouvius ; words by Hettie Judah ; photography by Debi Treloar.
“Adam Hills and Maria Speake, the partners behind architectural salvage and design business Retrouvius, combine their salvage work with one of the most sought-after interior design practices in Britain. Reclaiming Style goes with them behind the scenes, from the demolition site to the warehouse to the process of designing with reclaimed materials. Charted over twelve locations, ranging from a 17th-century cottage to a converted barn to a 1970s towerblock apartment, the company’s unique style goes far beyond a mere commitment to salvage and sustainable design and offers an inspiring new vision for sophisticated, thoughtfully constructed living spaces” .(Amazon)

James Wong’s homegrown revolution : grow your own amazing edibles from saffron to sweet potatoes in any back garden / [James Wong].
“James’s idea is simple and revolutionary. For 100 years, gardening books have said the same old thing about growing the same old fruit and vegetables. But in the wider world, as well as closer to home, there is a huge variety of delicious and often simple-to-grow incredible edibles suitable for temperate climates. Often common plants grown for flowers, like fuchsia, have delicious fruits or hips but we have long forgotten their use as edible plants. As the demand for ‘home-grown’ produce increases, this is the perfect time to introduce a whole new range of tasty, healthy and productive alternatives to the humble spud or lettuce. And who better to blaze the trail than the vastly knowledgeable and enthusiastic James Wong who tells us what to grow, how to grow it, and how to cook and eat it as well as the special properties of 100 new plants.” (Amazon)

The simple things : creating an organised home, a happy family and a life worth living / Antonia Kidman and Sally Collings.
“Organise your household and run your life with the minimum fuss and the maximum flair, from broadcaster and mother of five, Antonia Kidman, and author and mother of two, Sally Collings.” (Library Catalogue)

The small food garden : growing organic fruit & vegetables at home / Diana Anthony.
“Based on organic principles, this practical, well-illustrated guide takes you through all the basics: choosing what to plant and where to put it; advice on organic pest and disease control; watering and plant nutrition; using space-saving containers and raised beds; the benefits of companion planting as well as making your own compost – and that’s just for starters. A combination of previously published companion volumes, The Small Edible Garden and The Edible Garden Planner, the content for this book has been substantially revised and updated to include numerous new varieties of vegetables, fruit and herbs chosen for their suitability for growing in most climatic conditions around the world.” (Library Catalogue)

The beauty of trees / Michael Jordan ; consultant, Tony Kirkham.
“This illustrated tour of the world’s most extraordinary trees provides an insight into some of the natural world’s most astonishing structures. Through 100 photographs, The Beauty of Trees tells the story of our relationship with trees throughout history. Each image is supported by information about the botany of the tree, along with the stories, traditions and legends associated with it. From the giant sequoias of California to the bonsai of Japan, the pink tulip tree of the Himalayas to the Scots pine – and even the humble acorn – award-standard photography and insightful text bring the majesty and mystery of the world’s trees to life.” (Library Catalogue)

Paul Bangay’s guide to plants / photography by Simon Griffiths.
“Rich with anecdotes about what has worked best over the years, and with a special focus on plants for our changing climate, this collection showcases Paul’s A-list plants with photography from the best in the business, Simon Griffiths. Whether for an inner-city courtyard or a rambling rural estate, this book contains the practical advice readers need to give their own patch of green the Paul Bangay look.” (Library Journal)

National Geographic guide to medicinal herbs : the world’s most effective healing plants / Rebecca L. Johnson … [et al.] ; photography by Steven Foster ; foreword by Andrew Weil.National Geographic Guide to Medicinal Herbs: The World’s Most Effective Healing Plants
“This is an excellent herbal written by physicians trained in integrative medicine. It has more comprehensive information than that found in more basic works like Holly Bellebuono’s The Essential Herbal for Natural Health and Rosemary Gladstar’s Medicinal Herbs, both reviewed left. Highly recommended.” (Library Journal)

Dog-friendly gardening : creating a safe haven for you and your dog / Karen Bush.
“Does your garden look more like a prison exercise yard than somewhere to relax? Or is it a beautiful haven that you’d like to stay that way when your new dog arrives’from dealing with the practicalities of escape-proof fencing, to discouraging unwanted toilet activities in the rockery, this book will help you solve the problems that other gardening and dog-care books don’t touch on. Green fingers are an asset, but not essential — these tips are useful for everyone. Whatever your budget or plot size, with a little effort and imagination you can create an attractive outdoor environment that will actively enhance your relationship with your dog; a place where you can enjoy playing and relaxing together.Covering safety, planting, garden projects, and much more, this book is packed with practical advice and innovative ideas to help you and your dog enjoy your garden” (Publisher’s description)

Take time out to unwind and celebrate the new season and let us inspire you with a fabulous selection of new library books featuring knitting, quilting and crochet projects with lots of new ideas and tips how to make fabulous handmade gifts for family and friends. Enjoy the challenge!

(Plus, we’re extra excited — our picks this month include Kaffe Fassett’s autobiography!)

With fabric & thread : more than 20 inspired quilting & sewing patterns / Joanna Figueroa.
“As a generation of mostly self-taught, creative women takes to the world of fabric, quilting and sewing are joining forces in a way that they never have before. Long-time quilters, committed to their craft for decades, are starting to experiment with a bit of home sewing or simple sewing for their grandchildren. The younger side of the sewing community is embracing the world of patchwork and quilting, a world that once seemed inaccessible or even undesirable to younger seamstresses. Fabric & Thread seamlessly bridges the language and intimidation gap between these two crafts and delivers a unique collection of projects that appeal to sewers and quilters alike. Featuring 20 new projects, With Fabric & Thread marries the nomenclature of both sewing and quilting to create an effortless set of instructions that anyone can follow.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

Heart felt knits : 25 fresh and modern felting projects / by Tamara Mello.
“Knitting something by hand and then applying the centuries-old technique of wet felting results in gorgeous pieces that are durable, eco-friendly, and timeless. In Heart Felt Knits, actress-turned-crafter Tamara Mello offers twenty-five knitted and felted projects, from darling nesting bowls to elegant hats, cozy wraps, and chic hair accessories. Knitters will love watching their pieces take on surprising forms and textures through the felting process. With easy-to-follow knitting patterns, simple felting instructions, helpful how-to photographs, and lavish shots of the finished projects, this special book shows knitters of all stripes how to create unique accessories and keepsakes to last a lifetime.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

What to knit when you’re expecting : 28 simple mittens, baby blankets, hats & sweaters / Nikki Van De Car ; photography by Claire Richardson.
“Once you’ve got a handle on your delivery from the stork, flip through this adorable assortment of 30 knitting projects for the bundle of joy. The projects range from first trimester projects (which are moderately advanced, since there are months to finish) to second trimester (when most parents can determine the baby’s gender and prepare for a boy or girl), to third trimester quickies, when time is short. The booties, bibs, toys, blankets, and clothing will be one-of-a-kind items, fit to welcome a special person into the world.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

Fairy tale knits : 20 enchanting characters to make / [Fiona Goble ; photography by Andrew Perris].
“From the author of the sensational Knit Your Own Royal Wedding, Knitivity, and Noah’s Knits, Fairy Tale Knits lets you bring to life your favorite fairy tale characters as you read along with the stories and look at the gorgeous illustrations and the photographs of each doll. Included are instructions for making 20 beloved characters from stories such as ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears,’ ‘Little Red Riding Hood,’ ‘Rapunzel,’ ‘Three Little Pigs,’ ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ and ‘Hansel and Gretel.’ Basic knitting stitch techniques are illustrated and explained for beginners, and experienced knitters can try their hands at embellishments and more complex patterns. There’s something for everyone in this enchanting book!” (Publisher’s description)

How to make stuffed animals : modern, simple patterns and instructions for 18 projects / written and illustrated by Sian Keegan.
” Learn how to make 18 stuffed animal projects with original sewing patterns and illustrated instructions with this endearing new guide! With a complete overview of techniques and materials, How to Make Stuffed Animals shows that making these cuddly creatures is fun, addictive, and much easier than one would think. Anyone who has completed the most basic of sewing projects can master the projects in this book, and these cute creations can be used as decorative objects for the home or as great handmade gifts. Inside, you’ll find adorable animals like: A squirrel holding an acorn A grizzly bear A raccoon A horse A bird mobile Cute canines Furry felines And many more Explore a comprehensive range of animals in a modern and simple style with How to Make Stuffed Animals!” (Publisher’s description)

Dreaming in colour : an autobiography / Kaffe Fassett.
“Kaffe Fasset is one of today’s leading fiber artists and designers. He is internationally known for his dazzling needlepoint and knitted works, lines of upholstery fabrics and wallpapers and most recently his quilt and fabric designs. Kaffe resides in London, England.” (Publisher’s description)

Crocheted accessories / Vanessa Mooncie.
“This title features 20 gorgeous projects all clearly presented with easy-to-follow patterns. The projects include small fun designs, quick to make and a fabulous way to use up spare pieces of yarn. The techniques section explains basic skills, with a detailed reference glossary. This sumptuous step-by-step guide unites traditional crochet skills with contemporary fashion styles and icons. “Crocheted Accessories” introduces crochet makers of all abilities to a new vista of exciting possibilities. The book aims to give beginners the confidence to tackle exciting projects, as well as inspire intermediate crochet makers to develop new skills and dexterity. Vanessa Mooncie takes the reader on a making journey, explaining the techniques needed to produce a wide range of vibrant and exhilarating pieces; from intricate bumble bee brooch pins and vintage-inspired tattoo emblem brooches to delicate flower posy corsages and charming heart-shaped rings. Each chapter includes a project that all levels of makers can accomplish, as well as history boxes explaining the development of crochet through the ages. Projects include: fantail dove brooch, daffodil headband, mod target cufflinks, love heart tattoo brooch, trinket charm bracelet and oak leaf necklace.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

Curvy girl crochet : 25 patterns that fit and flatter / Mary Beth Temple.
“Full-figured women who love to crochet will rejoice in this fun, fresh, and pretty new book, Curvy Girl Crochet: 25 Patterns that Fit and Flatter. Instead of making adjustments to “average” sized patterns, this exciting guide celebrates larger women with 25 original crochet patterns designed specifically in plus sizes. Pullovers, sweaters, wraps, and more–every wardrobe staple you can think of is here, with techniques and schematics to show crocheters exactly how to troubleshoot and solve pattern-fitting problems before they occur. Expert crochet designer Mary Beth Temple, whose books can be found in major craft stores nationwide, teaches curvy crocheters everything needed to create fashionable items that will fit and flatter” (Publisher’s description)

Journey to inspired art quilting : more intuitive color & design / Jean Wells.
“Continue your art quilting journey with Jean Wells in this follow up to Intuitive Color & Design. Embrace the process of developing your skills and trusting your intuition with 9 classroom-tested design assignments that help you develop distinctive work. Jean provides you with new guidelines and exercises to hone your natural intuitive skills, then she encourages you to express yourself! Learn how to recognize those “big ideas” that become inspirational starting points for your art. Packed with inspiring quilt images, this book walks you through effective approaches to art quilting from journaling your ideas to unifying your design.”
(Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

Artist trading card workshop : create collect swap / Bernie Berlin.
“The simple act of sharing 2[fraction one-half] x 3[fraction one-half] pieces of art, known as Artist Trading Cards, knows no boundaries and brings like-souls together like no other form of communication can. Unique statements, passionate emotions and favorite interests can all be expressed in these miniature works of art that are always traded, never sold. Artist Trading Card Workshop will not only teach you how to create your own cards, combining one or more of the more than 25 techniques demonstrated in step-by-step photos, it will also share the ins and outs of trading, finding and organizing card swaps and how to trade with others across the miles or even the continents.Discover ways to create colorful collage backgrounds, make cards from fabric, incorporate painting, stamping, phone book pages, tissue paper, string, stencils and much more-all is revealed in step-by-step photos, but that’s not all. You’ll also: Learn the ins and outs of trading-where to look, what to swap. Find creative ways to store the cards you’ll soon be collecting. Be inspired by the cards from 60 talented contributors and over 200 beautiful cards. Book jacket.” (Publisher’s description)