Friday, July 27, 2012

CREAM OF THE CROP CRAFT BOOKS

I occasionally dabble in crafts- embroidery, sewing, appliqueing, and card making. (Knitting was an epic fail) Though I'm not very adept at any of these things, I absolutely looove craft books. Even if readers don't follow the patterns and directions, they can be inspired by the cute things in them. Here are a few of my favorite crafty books...

Creepy Cute Crochet by Christen Haden











Amigurumi is the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting little animals and toys. This is a fun book with patterns on making creepy toys like ninjas, the grim reaper, Medusa, and zombies.

Doodle Stitching by Aimee Ray











This is a great book for beginner embroiderers because it shows each stitch and gives tips on choosing threads and fabrics. It has cute patterns and offers creative inspiration for free form embroidery.


Simply Sublime Bags by Jodi Kahn











This is a low sew or no-sew book about making purses and bags. This appealed to me as I haven't yet mastered the sewing machine. It teaches how to make bags from pillowcases, t-shirts, placemats, and other odd fabrics you may have around the house. It has instructions for making a wallet from Monopoly money! Super cute!

Sew Darn Cute by Jenny Ryan











Love love love this book. I have made several of the projects, including the stuffed bear on the front cover. I like to go to Home Ec in Iowa City and get cute fabrics to make stuff from this book like the fabric collage, cafe curtains, and eyeglasses cozy.

Feel free to share your favorite craft books in the comments.