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Posted September 15th, 2008 16:01

If you're a bit of a star-spotter then you will love Knitted Icons by Carol Meldrum. Including patterns for stars of the stage and screen, such as Madonna, King Kong, Audrey Hepburn, Mr. T and Elvis, these cute knitted tributes would make great presents for friend-fans.

With a combination of knitting and sewing, you have to be slightly multi-talented, but don't worry too much because the book contains diagrams and instructions for all of the skills you'll need.

This is one seriously cute little read. So, who'll be on your A-list knit list?

You can pick up a copy of the book from Collins & Brown now! CO+K member offer: Order a copy of Knitted Icons for only £7.99 including free UK p&p. Call 0870 787 1613 and quote reference CH1028.



Posted September 14th, 2008 20:34

Second-Time Cool by Anna-Stina Linden Ivarsson, Katarina Brieditis and Katarina Evans is a great beginners guide to revamping unwanted clothing. Covering the key areas of embroidery, knitting and crochet, the book provides neat and easy tricks for sprucing up and adding bling to less stylish pieces.

Taking inspiration straight from the catwalk, the book explains how to reuse and recycle materials to create your own, which makes this a really inspiring read. With projects such as a necktie made from a V neck jumper and a coat made entirely from pompoms, some of the looks are better suited to outrageous and confident fashionistas, though there are pieces to suit the more timid dresser too. Even if you don't initially find something to make straight away, I'm sure you'll be inspired to use these techniques to create something unique and wonderful for yourself in the future.

It just goes to show that one woman's trash is another woman's couture!

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





Posted September 4th, 2008 14:42

If you've ever toyed with the idea of starting your own creative business, or pondered trying to sell your handy crafts, then Meg Mateo Ilasco's latest book, Craft, Inc will explain everything you ever needed to know for making it a reality.

Designed for the absolute business beginner, the book holds your hand through intimidating subjects such as production, marketing and publicity, while helping you focus your ideas and discover what your real talent is. One of the nice touches of the book are interviews with artists and crafters who have already made it about how they got where they are today.

Combining common sense with business know-how, the book aims to calm your fears and give you the needed push for taking the plunge with your creative hobby.

You can find out more about Meg on her website, or pick up a copy of Craft, Inc from Chronicle or Amazon now.



Posted August 17th, 2008 01:35

In the true style of Sex And The City, the movie book is more like a fashion magazine than a serious read.

The main body of the book focuses on the plot of the film, but there is also a catch up section for the preceding 6 TV series, the making of the film, the premiere and introductions by Sarah Jessica Parker and director, Michael Patrick King.

A bit like a picture book for the grown woman, each page is filled with designer clothing eye candy, and as the book steps scene-by-scene through the plot, there is commentary and insider gossip from the cast and crew. However, if it's the fashion you're in to, then you'll love the head-to-toe guides section where you're shown photographs of each outfit worn in the movie along with information on the designers for each item.

This is the perfect memento for any SATC fan and, although it won't beat watching the film, it will certainly keep you satisfied until the DVD comes out.

You can pick up a copy at HarperCollins or on Amazon now.





Posted August 11th, 2008 16:40

If you're a girly girl, like me, then you'll no doubt have a whole wardrobe full of skirts. However, if you've ever wondering about making your own, then Valerie Van Arsdale Shrader's Stylish Skirts is certainly the read for you. The book begins by explaining all the necessary sewing basics, techniques and tricks that you'll need to know.

Don't worry if you're new to sewing, as it's designed for the absolute dressmaking beginner and with detailed explanations on pattern making, sizing, embellishing and construction, you'll be equipped with all the required knowledge before you begin. There are ten skirt tutorials for making a range of styles.

So if you're an a-line girl, frilly girl or down to the ground type of girl, then there's surely a style to suit you!

You can pick up a copy of the book from GMC Publications or Amazon now! Check out a sample project from the book, Polka Dot Perfection Skirt.



Posted July 22nd, 2008 13:01

Sophie Uliano's Gorgeously Green promises '8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life'. From that title, you may expect the book to merely cover the obvious areas of recycling and being friendly to the environment, but you'll be delighted to find that is covers a whole lot more. With a foreword by Julia Roberts, you know you're in good company from the start.

Focusing on one step per week, the aim is to have you living green in every aspect of your life by the time you hit the last page. By helping you recognize what is green, you will be armed with the knowledge to make the right decisions in regard to food, your home, travel and beauty.

Each chapter covers everything you need to know and many include recipes, instructions and how-to's to start you off. There's never been a better time to become Gorgeously Green and this is the perfect book to get you started.

Get more information at the Gorgeously Green website or pick up a copy of the book from HarperCollins now.



Posted July 2nd, 2008 15:38

The Space Planner by Meg Mateo Ilasco is a workbook dedicated to helping layout and decorate the space in your home. Divided by room, each section offers helpful advice and know-how for making the best possible use of space, creating harmony and styling your home.

To find what's best for you, the book includes lifestyle questionnaires, budget sheets and furniture stickers with worksheets, which allow you to plan the layout of each room

Whether you're moving or just revamping your current home, this book is seething with practicality and sure to prevent a lot of unnecessary stress. As they say, 'failing to plan is planning to fail', so make sure to plan your space well when it comes to your home.

You can find out more about Meg on her website or pick up a copy of The Space Planner from Amazon now.



Posted June 26th, 2008 16:23

You may remember that we had Justina Blakeney as our Crafty Superstar several weeks ago, well here is a review of her sewing treo, Compai's latest book.

99 Ways To Cut, Sew, Tie & Rock Your Scarf is the third installment in the 99 Ways series and this book focuses on taking simple headscarves and transforming them in to trendy and fashionable garments and accessories.

You don't need to be a good sewer, or even sew at all, to use this book as several of the projects only require twisting and knotting. However, if you are willing to sew and cut the scarves, there are a heap of great projects to try. Some of the highlights include sewing a scoop-neck mini-dress, tying a shoulder tank top, knotting a knotted belt, stitching a satchel, sewing a pair of boxer shorts and wrapping a Frida Kahlo style hairdo. With nearly one hundred projects there's surely something for someone, for everyday and every mood.

This book scores highly with me and is going to be high on my recommendation list, so make sure to check it out. All you need to do is stock up on scarves. 

Check out the team, pick up the book and get fashion tips and tricks at Compai.com



Posted June 23rd, 2008 10:13

Amigurumi World: Seriously Cute Crochet by Ana Paula Rimoli is a charming book that teaches you to make the cutest of the cute amigurumi animals and other creatures. Even if you're not interested in picking up a hook and yarn, flipping through the pages still accounts for a pleasurable read.

Perfect for even crochet beginners, the book is filled with so many adorable patterns (Baby Lion & Daddy, Valentine's Bears, Baby Penguin & Mommy etc.), that it's sure to include everyones favorite animal, as well as some other inanimate favorites, such as Happy Eggs, Happy Snacks and Mr. & Mrs. Cactus.

My personal favorite is the Tiny Ami Turtle which is lovely. Whereas the toys would make great presents for children, the book acts as a great incentive for wannabe crocheters. Definitely one to add to your collection!

Check out Ana's blog to pick up a copy of her book, get free patterns and see many more of her wonderful creations.



Posted April 10th, 2008 00:46

Mark Montano's "Big-Ass Book Of Crafts" is literally a really big and heavy book of craft, but not without good reason, as it contains over 150 how-to projects. Covering everything from homeware and clothing to artwork and beauty treats, there are dozens of useful and practical ideas to keep the craftiest fingers occupied.

The book also has a bunch of quirky and off-the-wall projects too. Including a chandelier made from twigs and duct-tape furniture for your living room.

With so many projects, there's definitely something for everyone. This book will leads to days and days of craft-filled entertainment. It may be big, but it justifies it's over-sized space on the bookshelf.

Check out Mark's website for more info or to pick up your copy!



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