Tag: embroidery

Calling All Crafters!

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Winter time is the best for getting stuck into those craft projects.  Watching the throw you’re crocheting grow over your lap, or the warm jersey forming from your knitting needles is lovely on a day when you can get cosy.  Perhaps you’re an embroiderer, or quilting is your thing.  No matter what your craft of choice is, these cold winter days just invite settling in somewhere cosy and getting creative.

If you’d like some company while you work on your current project, have you thought of coming to one of the craft sessions in our libraries?

Arapaki Knit & Natter

Arapaki library on Manners Street in the city has weekly lunchtime sessions on Tuesdays at 12:30pm.  Pop in on your lunch break to get away from work for a little bit, and enjoy the company of other craft minded folk.  Perhaps you could borrow this book from their collection to give you some inspiration:

Beginner’s guide to colourwork knitting : 16 projects and techniques to learn to knit with colour / Austin, Ella
“Introduction — Choosing colors — Yarn and tools — Reading charts — Stripes — Slipped stitches — Stranded colourwork — Intarsia — Double knitting — Modular knitting — Entrelac — Techniques. Beginner’s guide to colorwork knitting explains all the techniques and stitches you need to start your journey to knitting with color.” (Catalogue)

Wadestown Library – Community Craft Circle

Or you could pop in to Wadestown library on the third Wednesday of every month at 10:30am for their Community Craft Circle.  Join other crafters in their community space to share conversation, craft tips and crafting supply sources.  It’s always lovely to see a new face.  And perhaps you might like to borrow this book from their collection:

Anyone can crochet amigurumi animals : 15 adorable crochet patterns / Simpson, Kristi
“Whether you’ve been crocheting for years or have never picked up a crochet hook before, this accessible, exciting project guide will show any crafter of any skill level everything you need to know to successfully make adorable amigurumi animals! This crochet project book opens with expert guidance on basic tools and techniques and insightful introductory sections on the basics. Get detailed insight on the background of amigurumi, basic materials, how to read patterns, and other essential tips to know in the preface to the projects. Also included are stitch guides, a comprehensive glossary, a handy abbreviations sheet, and more.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Johnsonville Library Sit & Knit

On alternating Sundays at Johnsonville Library at the Waitohi Hub, there’s a fortnightly sewing and craft group for thread-heads of all skill levels and ages. Bring along an existing project, some needles and some yarn, or use our basket of goodies.​ You do need to register for this popular event as there is limited space available, and you can do so here.  Maybe this sewing book from their collection is something that would interest you:

Simple hand sewing : 35 slow stitching and mindful mending projects / Strutt, Laura
“Hand sewing is a great way to practice mindfulness through craft. Laura Strutt has designed these 35 projects specially to develop your hand-sewing skills, but also to help you slow down, enjoy the moment, and appreciate the rewards of your work. Using a number of different techniques including visible mending, sashiko, embroidery, thread doodling, boro, and abstract embroidery, Laura shows you how to incorporate these methods into making something useful, creative, and sustainable. Whichever project you choose, take time to enjoy the process and simply sew.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

For more information on library events and programmes, you can go to: Event Calendar (wcl.govt.nz)

Create What You Love: New crafts & hobbies books

Ria

The autumn vibe is upon us, and what better way to celebrate this new season’s changing foliage to bright reds, oranges, and yellows than starting with nifty creative projects to keep your hands busy and your creative heart happy?

Say goodbye to fast fashion, and hello to ultimate dressmaking projects!  Inside these month’s sewing books are pattern sheets that suit every skill level, from amateur sewers needing a gentle introduction to experienced ones ready for challenging dresses with pleats and details. For avid yarn crafters, author Emma Wright shows how fun it is to CIY (Crochet-It-Yourself) with style while including your creative touch. Or why not go retro? Retro Girl Embroidery by Erin Essiambre will bring all those nostalgic 70s feels while spicing up any living space. Other April titles include Catherine Legrand’s ode to patchwork. With over 300 stunning photographs, every page of Patchwork: A world tour is an inspiration to every fabric fan and artist around. So, whatever your crafting tools are, from knitting needles to a handy little wooden flower press, take a deep breath and treat yourself to these inspiring makes!

How to sew clothes : learn with intuitive, super-hackable patterns / Greenhall, Amelia
“How to Sew Clothes will help you start from scratch or reignite your excitement for sewing-so you can make clothes that are personal, well-fitted, and versatile.” (Catalogue)

 

 

A year of sewing with Nani Iro : 18 patterns to make & wear throughout the seasons / Ito, Naomi
“Learn to sew garments that you’ll love and want to wear all throughout the year! Craft a timeless and versatile wardrobe for everyday with Nani Iro, the Japanese fabric brand by artist and textile designer Naomi Ito. In this follow-up to The Nani Iro Sewing Studio, Naomi and her talented atelier present a collection of 18 artful garments that can be enjoyed all year round–simply change the fabric selection or design elements like sleeve length to customize pieces for specific seasons.”–Publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The modern flower press : preserving the beauty of nature / Richardson, Melissa
“A Best Floristry Book of 2022, Gardens Illustrated A contemporary, beautifully illustrated book on flowers, flower pressing and arranging. ‘A delight, packed with stories about the flowers JamJar Flowers work with, as well as practical information’ House & Garden” (Catalogue)

 

CIY [crochet-it-yourself] : 15 modern crochet designs to stitch and wear / Wright, Emma
“With 15 beautiful designs, CIY: Crochet-It-Yourself takes you through all the steps and techniques that you need to master and refine your crochet skills. In this fresh and modern guide to crochet, Emma Wright shows you how to create your own stylish crochet collection. Once you have mastered the basics, Emma will show you how to confidently play with colour and pattern to make clothes that suit you style and add your own creative flair to.”–Publisher’s description.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Retro girl embroidery : 20 vintage patterns inspired by the 1970s / Essiambre, Erin
“Far-Out Fiber Art to Celebrate the ’70s. From fringe and bell-bottoms to funky patterns and florals, fill your embroidery hoop with the iconic style of the 1970s! Erin Essiambre, renowned fiber artist and creator of Salt Water Stitches, combines her love of the disco decade with her passion for stitching in these 20 unique embroidery projects inspired by the folksy vogue of the ’70s era. Complete with warm desert shades, celestial scenes and peaceful affirmations, these magical designs will instantly add a pop of vintage flair to your walls. Show off the boho outfits of the famous Retro Girls! ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Patchwork : a world tour / Legrand, Catherine
“What do Korean bojagi wrapping cloths, Cameroonian Bamileke boubous, Peruvian montera hats and Hungarian cifraszür shepherd cloaks have in common? Each is made using the ancient technique of patchwork the art of juxtaposing fabrics and motifs to create blankets, clothes, accessories and more. Catherine Legrand, who has spent many years travelling and researching textiles, has a deep knowledge of the techniques and traditions that characterize patchwork. Pieced together much like the gorgeous textiles it portrays, her beautifully illustrated book features over 300 dazzling photographs of patchwork worldwide. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The quilted home handbook : transform your space with the art of quilting / Chow, Wendy
“Perfect for beginners and experienced quilters alike, this quilting book features simple illustrations and easy-to-follow steps that teach you how to make 15+ beautiful quilt projects for around your home, including everything from placemats to a throw pillow to a matching bed quilt and pillow shams”– Provided by publisher.” (Catalogue)

Bag of tricks: New crafts and hobbies books

Ria

This month’s new titles offer an abundance of creative possibilities and spark a sense of wonder. Sew yourself a jasmine duster, a kimono-like dressy jacket. Be enthralled with the complexity of different weaving elements of some well-known tapestry masterpieces in history. There is something for everyone to try. Whether you are a newbie paper clay artist or an experienced knitter thirsty for new techniques, every crafter is guided by each book’s easy-to-follow instructions, ready patterns, and stunning visuals. With plenty of eye-catching projects to choose from, unleash your inner crafter vibe and get started!

You will be able to sew your own clothes by the end of this book / Uzor, Juliet
“Create your own tailored wardrobe, avoid fast fashion, and learn a new sustainable skill with this comprehensive guide for complete beginners. There has never been a better time to learn to sew your own clothes. If you want to avoid harmful fast fashion, create sustainable pieces for yourself and one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones, and curate your own perfect wardrobe, this is the book you need. Get started with the core skills such as how to make accurate measurements, how to use a sewing machine, and how to follow a pattern.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Everyday patterns : easy-sew pieces to mix and match / Jansdotter, Lotta
“An inspiring guide to creating a flexible, seven-piece wardrobe with modern Scandinavian elegance, from style icon Lotta Jansdotter. When Jansdotter wears one of her signature clothing looks, fans frequently ask, “Did you make that?” Lotta’s answer is, “Yes, and so can you!” With that in mind, she has created her second book of easy-to-sew pieces that can be layered to create a variety of looks. Lotta Jansdotter Everyday Patterns is all about flexible, customizable garments to wear in your nest and in your neighborhood, and easy, fun ways to alter each one as the season–or your mood–changes. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The art of tapestry / Wyld, Helen
“Woven with dazzling images from history, mythology and the natural world, and breath-taking in their craftsmanship, tapestries were among the most valuable and high-status works of art available in Europe from the medieval period to the end of the eighteenth century. Over 600 historic examples hang in National Trust properties in England and Wales – the largest collection in the UK. This beautifully illustrated study by tapestry expert Helen Wyld, in association with the National Trust, offers new insights into these works, from the complex themes embedded in their imagery, to long-forgotten practices of sacred significance and ritual use.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Patty Lyons’ knitting bag of tricks : over 70 sanity saving hacks for better knitting / Lyons, Patty
“Patty Lyons is an expert in all things knitting related – she will help you sort out your gauge, unpick problems like twisted stitches and generally spruce up your knitting know-how in this pocket-sized reference book packed full of her purls’ of wisdom. Patty is a well-known knitting ‘agony aunt’ and she will hold your hand as you tackle the problems that often beset knitters and get in the way of beautiful finished projects. This handy guide will always be by your side to help you unravel your yarn problems and get you back on track.”–Amazon.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Modern Japanese embroidery stitches : bold & exotic plants, sea life, charms, letters and more / Tsuchihashi, Noriko
“In Modern Japanese Embroidery Stitches, Japanese textile maven Noriko Tsuchihashi presents over 100 bold, textural motifs to stitch with thread, ribbon, beads and buttons using familiar stitches as well as a few lesser-known ones. Her detailed instructions and lovely suggestions on how to combine and display the finished pieces will inspire you!”–Amazon.com.” (Catalogue)

Complete guide to paper clay : mixing recipes : building, finishing, and firing : 10 practice projects / Tardio-Brise, Liliane
“Liliane Tardio-Brise experiments step-by-step with the reactions of paper clay to the usual techniques of ceramics-pinch building, coils, slabs, wheel throwing, etc.-to bring an understanding of the many ways of working with paper clay. With cellulose fibers added, the clay gains new properties. Rehydrating paper clay pieces brings back their suppleness and allows them to accept deformations, easily repair cracks, and be built on with new clay pieces. Paper clay lends itself to all finishes, can be air dried and/or fired, and, because the fibers burn off when fired, finished pieces are lighter and can be built taller and still maintain their stability”– Provided by publisher.” (Catalogue)

Origami + kirigami for the home : paper art decorations, gift wrapping, and homemade cards / You, Wei
“Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding and kirigami is the traditional art of paper cutting. In this beautifully illustrated book, paper artist Wei You introduces you to over 30 unique projects for your home that can be made by anyone, regardless of experience. After learning the basic folds, discover different paper types–try out pretty handmade ones such as mulberry and decorative washi, or experiment with the full rainbow of classic origami paper–and find a wealth of ideas from table decorations and tiles, to gift wrap and seasonal decorations.”– Provided by publisher.” (Catalogue)

Creative inspirations to kick off the New Year: New hobbies and craft books

Ria

As we usher in the New Year, seize that fresh opportunity and reclaim the promise of a more creative life. Get excited for your first easy weekend makes as we round up this month’s crafts and hobbies books! We think you’ll find a project below to uplift your spirits and enhance the comfort of your home — whether you choose to practice mindfulness through the ancient art of Japanese calligraphy, or prefer to read about cherished travel stories captured in intricate crochet patterns. Also included, some more general inspiration. Have a browse!

Shodo : the practice of mindfulness through the ancient art of Japanese calligraphy / Takeda, Rie
“The ancient Japanese art of calligraphy is more than just a decorative skill; it is a revolutionary approach to mindfulness. This book is a beautiful introduction to Shodo, which shows how the movement of a brush channels energy through the body and mind, uniting both in harmony. What results on the paper is a true depiction of the present moment, a movement towards a more peaceful mindfulness. Shodo expert and professional calligrapher Rie Takeda shares the history, philosophy and craft of Shodo. Decorated throughout with her stunning art, Takeda begins with the basic brushstrokes, and builds up to drawing complete kanji, beautifully nuanced in both appearance and meaning. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Crochet journey : a global crochet adventure from the guy with the hook / Roseboom, Mark
“Crochet Journey: Crocheting and travelling… these two passions have been brought together by talented designer Mark Roseboom — aka The Guy with the Hook — in this exquisite crochet book. Mark has traveled extensively in the last ten years. He has seen and learned from the different cultures, religions and ways of life. Travelling made him the person he is today. And it’s the same with crochet. Each design in the book is inspired by a cherished memory and takes you on an adventure through the wonderful world of crochet. The patterns feature full written instructions in US crochet terms, charts, and Mark’s tips for success. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The complete beginner’s guide to embroidery : everything you need to start creating today
“In Beginner’s Guide to Embroidery, you can experience this for yourself. Regardless of if you’re a needlework novice or a seasoned sewer, we’ve laid out all the tools and techniques you need to get started.” (Catalogue)

P.S.– we made this : super fun crafts that grow smarter + happier kids / Domesek, Erica
“A concise set of easy-to-construct crafts for parents to create with their children. Working with childhood play and learning professional Laura Felt, Domesek includes crafts that are marked with codes to show the cognitive, physical, or social-emotional skills the activities emphasize. Most of the projects involve materials easily found around the house [and] incorporate ideas for expanded elements of play and participant improvisation”–Library Journal.” (Catalogue)

Dress code : unlocking fashion from the new look to millennial pink / Hyland, Véronique
“Everything–from societal changes to the progress (or lack thereof) of women’s rights to the hidden motivations behind what we choose to wear to align ourselves with a particular social group–can be tracked through clothing. Veronique Hyland examines thought-provoking questions such as: Why has the “French girl” persisted as our most undying archetype? What does “dressing for yourself” really mean for a woman? How should a female politician dress? Will gender-differentiated fashion go forever out of style? How has social media affected and warped our sense of self-presentation, and how are we styling ourselves expressly for it?” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Karl Lagerfeld unseen : the Chanel years / Fairer, Robert
“”Casting a new light on one of the best-loved chapters in fashion history, ‘Karl Lagerfeld Unseen: The Chanel Years’ illuminates key Chanel collections and creations from behind the scenes. From discreet client fittings in rue Cambon’s immaculate black-and-beige salons to previously unseen backstage moments that show models, hairdressers, stylists, make-up artists and Karl Lagerfeld himself at work, Robert Fairer’s stunning and high-energy photographs capture the elegance, glamour and spirit that defined Karl Lagerfeld’s shows for Chanel.”–Publisher’s website.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Creative Maker Inspirations: New Crafts and Hobbies Books

Ria

This festive season of gift-giving can be a daunting task. Discover the inner crafter in you and check out this month’s crafts and hobbies books to kick off your creative process and explore new possibilities. After all, what other gift could be more thoughtful than something special made with your own hands?

This December offering includes ideas on modern block printing, a feminist embroidery guide, unique “refashioning” projects, crochet patterns for dolls and other elements inspired by nature, just to name a few. The various projects are accessible to all crafters regardless of skill level. From moulding simple scented candles for keen beginners to finishing a crocheted festive tree for experienced makers who want to go a notch higher with the difficulty level, anyone can find inspiration to create a special gift and share the love. Turn your creativity into an infinite deposit of ideas with the help of beautiful photographs, guides to tools and materials, and easy-to-follow instructions and pattern guides. Even if you are a crafter on a budget, there is something to make for your tribe!

Serena sews : how to make beautiful, interchangeable, sustainable and unique clothes / Baker, Serena
“Forget fast fashion and cheap trends, Serena Baker is here to help you craft the sustainable wardrobe of your dreams! In 2021, Serena Baker became the youngest ever and first Scottish winner of The Great British Sewing Bee. She thrilled the judges with her incredible attention to detail and wowed viewers with her distinctive ‘refashioning projects’, putting sustainability at the heart of her creations. Whether you’re brand new to sewing or already know the ropes but fancy trying something a little different, Serena will take you on a journey to reinvent your wardrobe. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Sisters gonna stitch : a feminist embroidery guide
“A fabulous collection of funny, sassy, uplifting embroidery patterns for the modern-day stitcher. Be inspired to kickstart your crafting journey with 50 gorgeous designs, as well as hints and tips from the experts at Cotton Clara. Each pattern features an empowering, inspirational message that will speak to a new wave of embroiderers looking to add a fun, feminist slant to their artwork.” (Catalogue)

Crochet with flowers and plants : 35 beautiful patterns inspired by nature and the seasons / Eastwood, Kate
“Kate Eastwood is known and loved for her wreaths and garlands covered in crocheted decorations, and her exquisite attention to detail in everything she makes. Crochet with Flowers and Plants brings together her love of nature and the seasons with her eye for color and style. These 35 different patterns for blankets and pillows, home décor, table decorations, and wreaths and garlands all feature flower, leaf, or plant motifs, and in a few cases they actually recreate the whole plant!” — Publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Modern block printing : over 15 projects designed to be printed by hand / Sivyer, Rowan
“Modern Block Printing explores the ancient craft of printing by hand, through contemporary and simple designs. Rowan Sivyer demonstrates the versatility of this beautiful medium through 15 easy projects: from greeting cards to printing on fabric and clay, to ideas for making homewares such as cushions and lampshades and even making your own unique Christmas ornaments and gift wrap. She is often inspired by nature, particularly in her homelands of New Zealand and Australia. Modern Block Printing showcases these influences through Rowan’s use of pattern and colour, before teaching readers how to transform their prints into beautiful objects to gift or decorate the home with. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Crochet you! : crochet patterns for dolls, clothes and accessories as unique as you are / Amiel, Nathalie
“Create unique dolls for loved ones with this collection of crochet patterns for all. Learn how to adapt the basic pattern by changing the shape, colour and hair style of your doll, and by adding details such as scars and vitiligo. Then mix and match the selection of outfits and medical aids to make the perfect doll for you. There are step-by-step instructions for a range of clothes, shoes and accessories including feeding tubes, orthosis, a hearing aid and glasses, as well as a wheelchair and an assistance dog – nobody is left out.” — Back cover.” (Catalogue)

Blazed wax : creating sculptural candles for any space / Kannava, Ruby
“Blazed Wax is a comprehensive and colourful guide to contemporary candle making from friends and designers Ruby Kannava and Emma Cutri, with twenty-five projects for beautiful candles and candleholders that will light up your life. This book brings together everything you need to start making your own sculptural candles at home – from mould-making using everyday items like fruit and vases, to dip-dyed candle-pouring, or even making fun twisted candles from supermarket candles.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Unleash Your Creative Self: New Crafts and Hobbies Books

Ria

This month’s collection of crafts and hobbies books offer a delightful cornucopia of creative pursuits and inspiration. From pattern-free sewing how-to’s to finishing an animal crochet block, there are so many fun DIY to explore or upskill. Each project would guide you through with varying level of difficulty, beautiful photographs, and clear step-by-step instructions.  Whether you plan to embroider flowers to give new life to an old shirt or upcycle pages of an old book, there are endless possibilities to channel that urge to explore and create.

Sew it yourself : 20 pattern-free projects (and infinite variations) to make your dream wardrobe / Braid, Daisy
“Sew It Yourself with DIY Daisy is a colourful, size-inclusive and inspiring book for sewers of all stages and abilities, beginners included. It includes guides on everything you need to get started (including equipment, materials and basic techniques) and step-by-step projects with clear instructions, photographs and illustrations that will take the scary out of sewing. Just remember: sewing is self-care, and you make the rules!” (Catalogue)

Sundressed : natural fibres and the future of fashion / Tonti, Lucianne
“In this superbly written book, fashion insider Lucianne Tonti looks beyond sustainable fashion to a future remade by natural fibres.An exploratory dive into the art and industry of clothing and an ode to the possibilities in nature, Sundressed is an accessible, engaging and optimistic challenge to designers, farmers and business to think bigger. She uncovers a growing hive of activity worldwide, from mulberry groves in China and cotton collectives in California to Mongolian goatherds and Australian sheep farmers. With a designer’s eye for detail and an insider’s understanding of the market, Tonti shows us where our clothes come from and why it matters.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Creative book art : over 50 ways to upcycle books into stationery, decorations, gifts, and more / Youngs, Clare
“Transform old books and magazines into beautiful paper crafts, with over 50 inspiring projects. Packed full of ideas for everything from stationery and homewares to paper animals and gifts for kids, Creative Book Art shows you how to make stunning projects that look impressive but are deceptively simple to make. Get cutting and gluing to make display scenes and decorations such as a fairy-tale castle, printed feathers, and hanging paper birds. With just a few basic tools and some old books or magazines to get you started, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to repurpose pages into unique items to keep or gift.”–Publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Seasonal flower embroidery : a year of stitching wild blooms and botanicals / Aoki, Kazuko
“Small embroidered gifts for every season. Give the gift of embroidery! Inspired by flowers in every season, theses small projects make the perfect gift. From small purses and pins to stunning artwork, these embroidery projects are small but stunning and make a big impact with just thread, needle, and fabric”– Provided by publisher.” (Catalogue)

 

Cute & easy crochet with flowers : 35 fantastic floral crochet patterns / Trench, Nicki
“Bring nature with you wherever you go with these 35 beautiful projects, all incorporating floral motifs. Divided into three chapters, the book begins with projects perfect for first-time stitchers. Next, move on to Practice Makes Perfect, where you can develop your crochet skills to make beautiful pillow covers, place mats, and blankets to decorate your home. Finally, more experienced crafters will love the projects in Confident Crocheting–from a Daisy Scarf and Floral Bag, to a Vintage-style Vase Coaster and Gypsy Queen throw that will stay in the family for generations. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

52 weeks of scarves
“52 Weeks of Scarves is a contemporary collection of 52 patterns for scarves, shawls, wraps, cowls and collars, from Nordic knitting experts Laine. This stunning book contains a beautiful scarf pattern for every week of the year. The 52 projects have been contributed by leading knitwear designers from across the world and showcase an exceptionally wide range of yarns, techniques and difficulty levels, including two crochet designs. Comprehensive patterns are supported by extra material on the Laine website, and stunning photography and styling evokes the inspiring Nordic lifestyle and slow living.”–Publisher’s description.” (Adapted from Catalogue)