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As a reasonably skilled knitter, I've always struggled when it came to crochet, but thankfully, the Rowan Crochet Workshop looks set to fix that.

The first thing that will strike you about this book is how clearly laid out the instructions are, with step-by-step photographs detailing every step, making them really easy to follow. Consisting of six different workshops, to teach you everything from shaping and textures to embellishing and creating garments, the book keeps a steady pace ensuring that you've picked up all of the basic skills before getting too complex.

As well as guides about hooks, yarn, and techniques for a wide range of stitches, there's a selection of interesting projects to try out with your new skills. Beginners can start off with some simple Four-Stitch Coasters and then work their way up to more complex projects, like Crochet Buttons, Felted Pots or a gorgeous Baby Dress. It's a bit like having a private Stitch N Bitch in your own home, where you're free to learn at your own pace. Learn how to make some beautiful and intricate projects and become an expert with the hook.

Pick you your copy from The GMC Group or on Amazon.

I must admit that I wasn't aware that Bruns had made a series of craft related For Dummies guides but I'm glad they do as the book is stuffed full of helpful information and instructions.

If your wardrobe is full of dull and disappointing clothes then you will love this book, as it will show you how to give new life to old outfits, through repairs, embellishments and adjustments. Turn a sweater in to a skirt, transform t-shirts and learn how to turn a pair of jeans in to a denim skirt. Fix stains with quick and simple tricks, learn beading or use up leftover fabric by making a Put Your Money Where Your Scraps Are Wallet.

Progressing from basic to complex, the book includes all the skills you need to become an alterations expert. Filled with dozens of projects, you can learn how to deconstruct and then reconstruct to give drab clothes a second life.

You can pick up a copy of the book from Wiley or Amazon now.

Peach Berserk is an amazing, talented lady and her book, Silkscreen Now, will teach you everything that you need to know to become a "silkscreen star". A handy DVD is included with the book, in which Peach will teach you all the tips and tricks that you will need to know, from her wonderful and kitschy studio in downtown Toronto.

Learn how to set up your own studio, create a light table and build a frame so that you can start printing. The aim is to use inexpensive materials, while recycling and repurposing where possible, to make silkscreening cheaper and easier than ever. The book will talk you through all the equipment, tools and supplies you'll need to use and provides adorable step-by-step illustrations, as well as photos, to guide you through the various processes. Learn how to work with various inks and paints, and learn how to cut stencils to achieve different styles and multi-coloured prints.

Once you've mastered the techniques, try out some fabulous projects including a No Comment Vintage Outfit, some Hopeless Romantic Pillowcases or the Not Your Great-Auntie's Silk Scarf. This book is comprehensive and complete, making it a great starting point for any newcomer to silkscreening.

Find out more about Peach Berserk, or pick up a copy of the book, on her website.

This is one of those recipe books where you get hungrier and hungrier, the more you flip through the pages. Cupcake Magic by Kate Shirazi may be a small but it's stuffed full of baking goodness.

I'm not a fan or recipes that call for long lists of ingredients, and this book caters exactly to my whim, with a number of "Low-Faff" recipes, designed to make baking cupcakes easier. There is also a selection of "High-Faff" recipes too, for times when you are in the mood to make something extra special. For example, a Bollywood cupcake, covered in rich fondant and embellished with glittering icing flowers.

There's certainly a cupcake for every occasion in the book, with each recipe pictured in mouthwatering detail. Celebrate Valentine's day with a super sexy Bite My Cherry or Cupid Cupcakes. Even just the name of the Carrot Cupcake with Honey Cream Cheese Frosting is enough to send you running for the baking supplies. If you're looking for something a bit different, then this book's savory cupcake selection might suffice, with weird and wonderful combinations like Ricotta & Smoked Salmon or Bacon & Cheese cupcakes.

Once you've gobbled down a plate-full of cupcakes, you even make yourself feel better with the knowledge that a donation will be made to the Battery Hen Welfare Trust from your purchase of the book.

You can pick up a copy of this book from Collins & Brown.

Order a copy for only £6.00. Call 0870 787 1613 and quote reference CH1068