Crafts Recent Picks

January 2011

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.

Wee wonderfuls by lary Lang.
"In this charming collection, acclaimed toy maker and popular blogger Lang presents a captivating gang of 24 huggable, lovable dolls to sew. Each pattern includes clear illustrations and pattern templates." (Library Catalogue)

Cowl girls by Cathy Carron.
"Forget tired scarves and bulky turtlenecks-funky, chunky, hip and happening cowls are where it's at! Following up her hit book" Hattitude," author and designer Cathy Carron weaves a fashion statement that puts in-the-know women head and shoulders above the rest. Among the more than 35 patterns provided here are a cozy neck wrap featuring a built-in iPod holder, a lacy drawstring hood, and a woven necklace sparkling with Swarovski crystals." (Library Catalogue)

Paper scissors glue by Catherine Woram.
"Get your kids folding, snipping, and sticking with "Paper Scissors Glue". Kids love crafting, and paper-based crafts are particularly popular, as they require no specialist equipment or hard-to-find craft supplies … Folding contains simple origami projects as well as cute hanging mobiles and classic paper planes, hats and fans. Printing and Painting includes paper-plate masks, treasure maps and marbling paper. …Every project can be completed in four steps - just follow the simple instructions and you can't go wrong!." (Amazon UK)

101 wire earrings by Denise Peck.
"Providing detailed descriptions on how to intricately craft stylish wire earrings, this beautifully illustrated guide offers simple yet elegant projects that are inexpensive and easily accomplished… With a diverse selection of 101 contemporary earring projects submitted from top designers, wire crafters of all skill levels will hone their talents while discovering new and inspirational ideas for producing unique and creative works in one of the fastest growing trends of modern jewellery art." (Library Catalogue)

Kirstie's homemade home by Kirstie Allsopp.
"Nothing compares with the pleasure and satisfaction of making something yourself and Kirstie shows just how easy it can be. …From stencilling wallpaper and sewing your own cushions and quilts, to making candles and soap and icing a cake, Kirstie’s Homemade Home includes everything you need to get to get you started. …Kirstie’s Homemade Home is for everyone who loves car boot sales and antiques and values the art of the homemade." (Amazon UK)

Knitting it old school by Stitchy McYarnpants and Caro Sheridan.
"Knitters love all things vintage-but it's not as easy as picking up an old pattern from decades past. Oftentimes, they use obsolete yarns, aren't sized for today's body shapes, and are written differently than current pattern instructions….. Drawing from the fashion trends of the '40s through the '70s, "Knitting it Old School" offers a bold new twist on vintage-inspired knitting patterns. …With a balance of classic and kitsch, wardrobe basics and saucy specials, "Knitting it Old School" is a breath of fresh air for knitters who love "old" but want to be "new."" (Library Catalogue)

Introduction to making by Jan Horrox.
"Fun and imaginative, this guide to cloth doll-making demonstrates how to create exquisite and stylish dolls that make wonderful gifts or collectibles. …Complete with useful diagrams; clear, step-by-step instructions for making hands, feet, and faces; and templates for all other body parts, this creative resource provides the means and the inspiration to make gorgeous dolls that are full of character." (Library Catalogue)

Design your own tees by Jennifer Cooke

Fun with flax by Mick Pendergrast ; photographs by Maureen Lander.

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