Book Review: Paper to Petal

When I was a child growing up in a little village in Trinidad and Tobago, one of my favourite pass times was making paper flowers. I would save money for new sheets of tissue and crepe paper, and literally run to Haniff's shop. The shop was different from the other shops (parlours) in the village; it was bigger, air conditioned and carried some school supplies, stationery, knick knacks that made for great mother's day gifts, and lots and lots of tissue paper, crepe paper and other crafty supplies. Needless to say this was my favourite place to go in the village. Since I was always working on something crafty I was a permanent fixture in the store. I can still remember feeling excited whenever Mrs. Haniff would lay out the various coloured crepe paper and I would take forever to decide which colour to purchase that day.

Last year when I came across "Paper and Petal" by Rebecca Thuss and Patrick Farrell, I was so happy to see a new book being published on how to make paper flowers, but I did not get a chance to see the book beyond the sneak peek on Amazon. The book has been out since last summer and I am asking myself what took me so long to check it out. This amazing book is so inspiring and has rejuvenated my love of paper flowers. The book provides information about the materials needed, techniques for making paper flowers and provides easy to follow instructions. I picked up a copy of the book at the library, and will be adding it to my own library in the coming weeks.

Over the years I have made paper flowers from card stock and the beautiful paper selection available at the Paper Place in Toronto. However, it has been many years since I have made crepe paper flowers. I have tried finding crepe paper at the local art and craft supply stores without success. Over time I gave up on finding it and in the end simply forgot about crepe paper. I am therefore very excited to find a book that not only looks at how to make paper flowers, but focus a lot on crepe paper flowers. The book includes 28 pages of templates and a helpful source list, so there are countless possibilities and places to find supplies.

There are so many things to love about this book that I cannot pick a favourite. What I will say however is that I cannot wait to make several of the flowers and create a beautiful paper flower arrangement for my studio. Since reading the book I have found great online sources for crepe paper and I have also tried making some flowers using simple, inexpensive crepe paper streamers. I have always loved how pliable crepe paper can be and I have been inspired by the designs in the book. I now have a mission to create beautiful paper flowers. There are so many wonderful ways you can use paper flowers and with a world of paper to choose from the possibilities are endless.

  Paper to Petal: 75 Whimsical Paper Flowers to Craft by Hand / Book Trailer from THUSS + FARRELL on Vimeo.

Book Review: A is For Apron

A is For Apron: 25 Fresh and Flirty Designs by Nathalie Mornu

If you are looking for a book on how to make aprons, then "A is For Apron" is a fun book with lots of ideas for making aprons. The projects range from classic to playful. There are full colour photos of the finished aprons and coloured illustrations aid in teaching you how to make each project. There are step-by-step instructions, and patterns for you to enlarge. There are also instructions on how to make bias tape and how to miter corners. There is even a quick little tutorial on some basic embroidery stitches that you can use to embellish your projects. The author even provides a mini gallery of vintage aprons for inspiration along with a brief history of aprons.

I originally got this book for the library because I felt it would make a great reference for the students of my Aprons 101 workshop; however, I have found that I really love the projects myself. I am looking forward to doing several of these projects, including the "Dig It" on page 37 and the "Twirl, Girl!" on page 101. Another fun apron that looks like a great way to use up ends of ribbon and other trim is the "Carnival" apron on page 117 (also featured on the cover).

ISBN 978-1-60059-201-0

Enjoy!

*As with all of our book reviews, this review was not solicited or endorsed in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and is presented in the spirit of sharing.

Book Review: The Perfect Pajama

The Perfect Pajama by Kristina Nilsson and Jennifer Pirtle

I had seen this book some time ago, and I decided to add it to our Crafted Spaces reference library. Last year we introduced a new workshop called "Pyjama Party" to our program and I feel that this book is a great resource for students. It is easy for a beginner to follow, yet has a range of projects to inspire a more experienced sewer.

The book has twenty-one wonderfully creative ideas for pyjamas that you can make for him, her or little ones. Each design is presented with clear instructions, full colour illustrations and great photographs to assist you with each step. There is something for everyone in this book, including fun ways to add creative touches to kids pieces, as well as a few other projects that you can try.

my recent pyjama shorts project

Sewing pyjamas can be lots of fun and there are tons of great details you can add to your project. A week ago I made myself these sheep flannel pyjama shorts (Butterick - B5153) and I added a simple machine embroidery stitch along the side seams. I already have my next pyjama project planned and I am looking forward to adding some eyelet details as shown in the "Blue Lagoon" project featured in the book.

I also think that many of the designs in this book can be combined to create beautiful unique pieces. The "Cherry Checks" project shown below is also a great example of a project that can work well for both kids and adults.

As an added bonus, the book also comes with full-size patterns and templates for each project. This also makes it a great buy. ISBN 978-1-906525-96-5

*As with all of our book reviews, this review was not solicited or endorsed in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and is presented in the spirit of sharing.

Book Review: Doodle Stitching The Motif Collection

Doodle Stitching: The Motif Collection by Aimee Ray

Today I will like to share a new addition to Crafted Spaces library collection. The book contains "400+ easy embroidery designs" and includes a bonus CD. You can work along with the projects, or use the images to create your own unique combinations. The projects presented are simple and many of them will make great gift ideas.

The images and illustrations are playful, and the instructions are easy to follow. It is a great book for beginners; however, even an experienced stitcher can be inspired by the simplicity and whimsy of the designs. It is great inspiration if you are thinking about transforming your "doodles" into embroidery art, and has lots of ideas for you to play with as well. I also think that the CD is a wonderful treat and it adds additional value to the book.

After reading the book, I was inspired to create a new embroidery pattern. Even though I did not use the images from the book, I have to credit the author with conveying the idea of just having fun with images. I have started my new project and I hope to share it with you in a follow-up post.

To find out more about the author Aimee Ray, visit her blog or website. You can also receive a FREE download via the publisher Lark Crafts. ISBN 13: 978-1-60059-581-3

*As with all of our book reviews, this review was not solicited or endorsed in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and is presented in the spirit of sharing inspirational works and promoting creativity.

Book Review: Crocodile Stitch Fashions

Crocodile Stitch Fashions by Lianka Azulay

I added this book to my craft library this past summer, but was still trying to wrap my mind around how to do the crocodile crochet stitch. With the completion of my recent cowl project I was able to figure things out.

The book presents a range of fashion accessories using "super fine" to "light" weight yarn. There are eight very beautiful projects featured in the book. All of the projects in the book are listed at an intermediate level. The photos are very clear and the instructions are easy to follow. The author has also included a very handy conversion chart at the back of the book. My personal favourite is the "Triangle Shawl," which is featured on the cover. I'm looking forward to trying the projects and hope to share them with you.

Here are some great videos that I have also found helpful in learning this stitch.

Book Review: Made by Me

Made by Me - Jane Bull

I recently gave a little friend of mine this book as a gift. I love the wonderful collection of projects and the full colour step-by-step instructions. There are lots of projects to keep the reader entertained. The book teaches basic sewing, knitting and embroidery skills, and each project compliments each other.

One of my favourite projects in the book is the cloth dolls. I remember making these when I was a kid and it brought back fond memories. Another favourite of mine is the hand embroidery, which shows you how to take your drawing and turn in into a embroidery or cross-stitch pattern.

If you have a chance to check this book out at the library, you will be happy with the weeks of fun it has to offer. It will make a great gift for the little maker in your life or even a wonderful addition to your own library.

Book Review: Recycling Things to Make and Do

On today's Crafted Spaces Radio I talked about "Eco Crafting." I have wanted to start a segment on this topic for some time now and will like to add more to this topic as the year progresses. There are lots of blogs and other sites that are dedicated to this topic, as well as a wealth of other online resources. I mentioned this book; "Recycling things to make and do," because it is a great resource for working with kids on wonderful craft projects.

The large, bright full colour pages present the projects in easy to follow steps and each project uses materials from around your home as well as items that you may have from left-over sewing and craft projects. The projects are equally great for boys or girls and I think will appeal to a wide age group. Younger kids can make projects that allow them to explore paint and texture, while older kids can make projects like gift bags and tags that are perfect for gift giving. There are a number of other books in the series that look at "things to make and do."

I was asked by my nine-year-old son, "What interesting things did you do as a kid, when you were my age mommy?" His question brought back memories of drawing and working on countless craft projects. I remember spending hours with my craft books and trying lots of new craft projects. I would spend hours anticipating the final outcome. My favourite craft book was part of an encyclopedia set my mother had purchased for me. For years I continued to gain enjoyment from the projects I learnt and continue to use many of the techniques I learnt so many years ago.

My family and I have been having fun with our "Family Art Night" and my son's drawings have been amazing. Watching him expressing himself through art has been an amazing experience. Needless to say, I was very happy to find this book. Let me know what you think and perhaps share a favourite craft book from your library.

Book Review: Simplicity Fabric Guide

Today's book review is focused on the Simplicity Fabric Guide: The Ultimate Fiber Resource, which was released this pass July 2011. I do have to say that I am really impressed by this book. I have wanted such a book for a long time and I'm happy to add it to the library of resources here at the studio.

Featuring over 500 photos, this book presents a brief history of fabric, provides information about different types of fibers, includes a handy testing chart and presents a catalogue of fabric types with helpful tips on how to work with each fabric. You also get a guide for linings, interfacings and stabilizers. I also find the "Estimating Yardages" and "Fabric Width Conversion Chart" a very helpful tool. There is even a guide on needles, a stain removal chart and a chapter on threads.

This is a great book for both the beginner or seasoned sewer or crafter. There are lots of other reviews available on this book and countless sources for purchasing one. I have included a link to Simplicity at the beginning of this post. I will also like to hear your thoughts on this book and any other books you will like to recommend.

Book Review: The Book of Beads

The Book of Beads: A Practical and Inspirational Guide to Beads and Jewellery Making

by Janet Coles and Robert Budwig

This week I wanted to share with you a book I've had in my library for many years. It was published in 1990 and has a wealth of information about beads and some basic jewellery making techniques. When I first started designing jewellery, I found this book extremely helpful. It is a great beginner's guide, as well as a great bead reference book.

Years later I still refer to this book on occasion. I love the way that it is organized and how the information is presented. You can learn about the origin of beads and how some beads are made. There is also great pictures showing different types of beads. If you are new to jewellery making it also shows you a handful of basic techniques for making jewellery. Also helpful is a small section on findings.

Stop by your library or local book store and tell me what you think. I also look forward to hearing about your favourite bead or jewellery making book. Enjoy!

Book Review: Sherri Haab Jewellery Inspirations

Sherri Haab Jewellery Inspirations: Techniques and Designs from the Artist's Studio

This book was added to the studio library last year. I have not had a chance to do any of the projects, but I'm excited by the great selection of jewellery techniques and projects in the book. The author does a wonderful job of presenting the projects and providing easy to follow instructions. The selection of projects is interesting and several are unique pieces.

I have been designing jewellery for over ten years and I always love new resources, great tips and design inspiration. I also love the pictures of her studio, which has several pieces of furniture in common with my own studio. Her studio pictures can also serve as inspiration for your own creative space.

Let me know what you think of the book.

Book Review: Sew and Stow

Sew and Stow by Betty Oppenheimer

Recently one of Verona Collections' my sewing student had this book, and has chosen the "Cook's Helper Apron," as one of her "Beginner Sewing" projects. It is an interesting project book with a selection of easy to follow projects. The instructions are simple and the illustrations are effective. The projects featured are great for every aspect of your life, and all convey the common theme of organizing.

The apron project was very easy to follow and the step-by-step cutting and sewing instructions are great. There are thirty-one sewing projects in the book; including yoga bag, garden apron, garment bag, jewellery tote, and a cozy doggy pad. The book also provides helpful fabric and needle selection guides. The author also provides sewers with great tips and information on basic sewing techniques.

On a down note, all of the pictures for the projects are to the front of the book and not at the beginning of each project; which is something that does not work for me as far as the layout of the book. I do however find that the projects are simple to follow and allows for you to add your own creativity.

The Love of Crochet

Over the years I have enjoyed the art of crocheting. I remember all the great little baby items that my grandmother had made for me, and I think I still have a piece or two stored away. With the birth of each of her new grand child my grandmother has patiently and lovingly created a new baby blanket along with other great goodies.

Even now my children, the first of the great grand children have received their special blankets, booties and coats. Today I spent some time just sitting with my grandmother, each of us holding our crochet needle and working on our respective projects. I felt a true connection with her and the memory of her showing me my first crochet stitches as a child came to mind. I was truly happy to have the time to spend with her.

I had not crochet in several years, but decided that I wanted to make my baby something special. It is amazing how once you learn something you love doing; it can all come back to you no matter how long you stepped away from it. I even ventured to make a hat for my mom and husband.

Crochet: The Complete Guide by Jane Davis is a gift from my husband and a new addition to my resource library. It is a great book for beginner to advance alike, and both my grandmother and me are having fun learning and refreshing our skills.

Craft Shop

Crafted Spaces is happy to introduce its online shop, featuring books and other resources. We hope that you will enjoy this great collection of resources. The books and other items featured have been reviewed or used by us at our studio. Many of the books are part of our library and has been a source of information and inspiration.

One of the books listed at our online shop is Heartfelt by Teresa Searle. This is a great book with 25 creative projects. There are a variety of items that you can create for yourself or as a gift. The book itself will make a great gift for the crafter in your life. The mittens are our personal favourite.