Save money and have fun creating handmade gifts for loved ones. Throughout the year, gifts are needed for all sorts of special occasions. Here are reviews of some craft books with suitable projects.
Gifts for Baby – 30 Simple Crafting Projects to Welcome the New Arrival
By Catherine Woram, this was released by Ryland, Peters and Small. The craft projects include toys, personal items and keepsakes for baby as well as things for the nursery. These are made with simple and easy craft techniques, such as sewing and embroidery as well as painting and paper crafting. All of these projects are suitable for beginners. This also devotes a section to handcrafted gift boxes, wraps, and decorations.
It has color illustrated, step by step directions, a list of materials, and templates for each project. The sewing projects can be done by hand or machine. The appendix has a guide to the embroidery stitches that are used
Fleecie Dolls – 15 Adorable Toys for Children of All Ages
By Fiona Goble, this was published by Krause Publications/F & W. Most of these projects can be made from scraps of leftover fleece. Easy to make, these use basic sewing and embroidery techniques. This book is very suitable for beginners. The introduction explains all the materials and methods that are used. It gives measurements in inches and metrics.
For each of the delightful dolls, there is a list of materials and supplies and color illustrated, easy to follow, step by step directions along with templates for the doll and its clothing/accessories. There are also tips on choosing embellishments that are appropriate for the age of the child.
Fabulous Fat-Quarter Bags
This book by M’Liss Rae Hawley was released by C & T Publishing. The ten projects include all sorts of bags, totes, pouches, and purses in assorted sizes. This covers every type of embellishment from stylish handles to embroidery, trim, and beads. The introduction explains all of the basic techniques, materials, and supplies.
For each project, this has a list of materials and supplies, a cutting chart, and easy to follow, color illustrated, step by step directions from start to finish. When applicable, there are pattern pieces. Throughout the book are boxes with additional tips.
Counting all of the variations for each project, this title features 101 designs.
Buttonware
Indygo Junction has released the definitive guide to button crafts. This is by Amy Barickman, founder of Indygo Junction. This title presents over 30 exciting, button-based craft projects. They’re made with vintage and new novelty buttons from JHB International.
Easy enough for beginners, these projects by leading craft designers are made using simple jewelry and sewing techniques. For each project, this has a list of supplies and color illustrated, step by step instructions. There are chapters on bracelets and bangles, necklaces and pendants, fashion accessories, and clothing. The introduction explains the basic craft techniques and tools.
200 Creative Crafts for You and Your Home
Edited by Megan Hiller, this was released by Sellers Publishing. It is suitable for both adults and teens. This comprehensive craft guide covers a broad range of craft techniques. These include beading, crocheting, stenciling, felting, sewing, painting, paper crafting, collage, jewelry, and boondoggling.
This features all sorts of projects that are suitable for gifts. Among these are bags, stationery and books, jewelry, fashion accessories, apparel, items for the dining table, and storage items for the home.
For each project, it has foolproof, step by step instructions and a list of supplies along with a template.
The appendix covers all of the basic embroidery and crocheting stitches along with the boondoggling variations.
