Crafts Recent Picks

April 2009

The underlined title links will take you directly to our catalogue.
Some featured items are linked via a book cover to enable you to read more reviews.

To honor and comfort: native quilting traditions, by Marsha L. MacDowell and C. Kurt Dewhurst.
"Driven by artfulness and tradition, native quilters have long used colour and design to create spectacular and innovative quilts. Through the voices of quilters, writers, and folklorists, ...explores the images and meanings of Winnebago ribbon quilts, Plains Indian star motifs, Hawaiian appliquéd quilts, seal party quilts of the Nelson Island Eskimos, and many more. 80 colour plates." (Library Catalogue)

Eco colour: botanical dyes for beautiful textiles, by India Flint.
"Eco Colour fills a gap in the literature and uses an exciting range of projects to demonstrate a variety of techniques, some of them entirely new processes developed by the author. Projects range from solar dyeing to dyeing with 'ice-flowers'. The result is a range of pure natural colours produced with the least possible harm." (Amazon UK)

Making designer gemstone & pearl jewelry, by Tammy Powley.
"Simple techniques for making fabulous gemstone and pearl jewellery at home- Projects include bracelets, anklets, earrings, necklaces, and more- Features extensive information on the folklore and healing powers of gemstones and a comprehensive resource section of supplies." (Library Catalogue)

Handmade embroidered purses: using free machine embroidery, by Jenny Rolfe.
"The unique projects within this accessible reference offer embroiderers of any skill level techniques for creating their own magnificent purses- all made with quilting and free-machine embroidery techniques. The step-by-step instructions and helpful photographs guide sewers, quilters, and other crafters through the projects, culminating in textured, beautiful handbags perfect for any occasion. From making the fabric to stitching designs and adding beads, cords, and jewels, crafters will relish the contemporary projects and distinctive handmade purses." (Libary Catalogue)

Material obsession, by Kathy Doughty and Sarah Fielke.
"Owners of popular patchwork shop Material Obsession, share their distinctive, colourful and contemporary designs. They explain how anyone, even those who don't think they are 'creative', can confidently choose colours and patterns to create bold, easy-to-make quilts - perfect for today's busy craftspeople. Also included are instructions on the basics of patchwork and quilting." (Amazon UK)

Making stuff for kids, edited by Victoria Woodcock.
"Try this hip collection of ideas for all style conscious teens and tweenies. From pop-art cards to knitted critters and cross-stitched door signs, the projects are fun and funky. --Quick and Crafty! Following on from the success of Making Stuff: An Alternative Craft Book, Making Stuff for Kids is a vibrant and exciting new craft book that features a whole slew of new ideas for cool things to make for and with kids." (Amazon UK)

Paper cut it, by Marion Elliot.
"Learn the art of paper cutting and discover over 20 unique designs to transform paper into amazing three-dimensional projects and crafty cards. Each section introduces an essential paper-cutting technique, then an easy-to-make card and three projects to expand upon your new skills. Includes stunning paper designs for every occasion. Create a beautiful wedding garland, a festive Christmas gingerbread house and an exquisite oriental chandelier for a new home. With easy to follow, step-by-step instructions and an extensive range of templates, even novice crafters will be quick to master these techniques. So, pick up your scissors and get cutting!" (Library Catalogue)

The complete pebble mosaic handbook, by Maggy Howarth.

Softies only a mother could love; lovable friends for you to sew, knit or crochet, edited by Jess Redman and Meg Leder.

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