Popular Crafts Books

28+ [Hand Picked] Popular Books On Crafts

Discover the list of some best books written on Crafts by popular award winning authors. These book on topic Crafts highly popular among the readers worldwide.

3.8/5

Yarned and Dangerous by Sadie Hartwell

Time has not been kind to sleepy Dorset Falls, Connecticut, where an erstwhile resident is hoping to bring a tattered yarn shop back to life—but with a murderer on the loose, the whole town is in knots…   Josie Blair left Dorset Falls twelve years ago in hopes of making it big in New York City. But after earning an overpriced master’s degree and getting fired by a temperam Time has not been kind to sleepy Dorset Falls, Connecticut, where an erstwhile resident is hoping to bring a tattered yarn shop back to life—but with a murderer on the loose, the whole town is in knots…   Josie Blair left Dorset Falls twelve years ago in hopes of making it big in New York City. But after earning an overpriced master’s degree and getting fired by a temperamental designer, she finds herself heading back to her hometown. Her great-uncle was injured in a car accident, and newly unemployed Josie is the only person available to take care of him. Uncle Eb’s wife didn’t survive the crash, so Josie is also tasked with selling the contents of her Aunt Cora’s yarn shop. But the needling ladies of the Charity Knitters Association pose a far bigger challenge than a shop full of scattered skeins…   Miss Marple Knits is one of the few businesses still open in the dreary downtown. Josie can’t imagine how it stayed open for so long, yet something about the cozy, resilient little shop appeals to her. But when one of the town’s most persnickety knitters turns up dead in a pile of cashmere yarn, Josie realizes there’s something truly twisted lurking beneath the town’s decaying façade…   INCLUDES ORIGINAL KNITTING PATTERNS!

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4.6/5

How to Crochet: 16 Quick and Easy Granny Square Patterns by Prime Publishing

When you're short on time and yarn, crochet granny square patterns are just the way to go! With this eBook you'll learn how to crochet granny squares that are as unique as they are easy. Featuring a range of pattern styles and crochet stitches, you'll be able to create quick and easy granny squares in no time. This eBook will help you with: •Step-by-step tutorials •Detailed When you're short on time and yarn, crochet granny square patterns are just the way to go! With this eBook you'll learn how to crochet granny squares that are as unique as they are easy. Featuring a range of pattern styles and crochet stitches, you'll be able to create quick and easy granny squares in no time. This eBook will help you with: •Step-by-step tutorials •Detailed materials lists •Clear, large photos •Easy-to-understand instructions

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4.2/5

Twisted Threads by Lea Wait

Returning to the quaint coastal town of Harbor Haven, Maine—a place she once called home—Angie Curtis finds her memories aren’t all quite pleasant ones… After leaving a decade ago, Angie has been called back to Harbor Haven by her grandmother, Charlotte, who raised her following her mother’s disappearance when she was a child. Her mother has been found, and now the question Returning to the quaint coastal town of Harbor Haven, Maine—a place she once called home—Angie Curtis finds her memories aren’t all quite pleasant ones… After leaving a decade ago, Angie has been called back to Harbor Haven by her grandmother, Charlotte, who raised her following her mother’s disappearance when she was a child. Her mother has been found, and now the question of her whereabouts has sadly become the mystery of her murder. The bright spot in Angie’s homecoming is reuniting with Charlotte, who has started her own needlepointing business with a group called Mainely Needlepointers. But when a shady business associate of the stitchers dies suddenly under suspicious circumstances, Charlotte and Angie become suspects. As Angie starts to weave together clues, she discovers that this new murder may have ties to her own mother’s cold case…

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3.8/5

8 Different Crochet Stitches: Learn to Crochet Something New with Free Crochet Patterns by Prime Publishing (Editor)

You’re an old pro at all your favorite stitches. You tend to stick to the ones you know, and that’s totally OK because your scarves are beautiful, and everyone loves your sweaters. But it does get a little, well, boring sometimes doing the same stitch over and over again. For as much or as little as you have been crocheting, have you ever been bold enough to learn how to c You’re an old pro at all your favorite stitches. You tend to stick to the ones you know, and that’s totally OK because your scarves are beautiful, and everyone loves your sweaters. But it does get a little, well, boring sometimes doing the same stitch over and over again. For as much or as little as you have been crocheting, have you ever been bold enough to learn how to crochet something new?

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3/5

16 Free Printables: Free Printable Greeting Cards and Other Printable Paper Crafts by Prime Publishing

Want to DIY but don't have the time to create adorable paper crafts yourself? 16 Free Printables Free Printable Greeting Cards and Other Printable Paper Crafts is the collection you have been waiting for. Get your cardstock and scissors ready because for most of these projects, that is all you'll need. Create beautifully simple greeting cards, colorful recipe cards, cute b Want to DIY but don't have the time to create adorable paper crafts yourself? 16 Free Printables Free Printable Greeting Cards and Other Printable Paper Crafts is the collection you have been waiting for. Get your cardstock and scissors ready because for most of these projects, that is all you'll need. Create beautifully simple greeting cards, colorful recipe cards, cute bookmarks, and DIY paper flowers all at the click of a mouse. Just press print and all these pretty printables will be yours. Decorate your home or say hello to a friend with these visually appealing free printable paper crafts.

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3.7/5

Hitting the Books by Jenn McKinlay

It's murder by the book in the latest hit Library Lover's mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of Death in the Stacks. When a stack of library materials is found at the scene of a hit and run, library director Lindsey Norris finds herself dragged into the investigation as the police try to link the driver of the stolen car to the person who borrowed the books. It's murder by the book in the latest hit Library Lover's mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of Death in the Stacks. When a stack of library materials is found at the scene of a hit and run, library director Lindsey Norris finds herself dragged into the investigation as the police try to link the driver of the stolen car to the person who borrowed the books. Before Lindsey can delve into the library's records, the victim of the hit and run, Theresa Houston, suffers another "accident" and the investigation shifts from driver negligence to attempted homicide. A clue surfaces in the confiscated library materials that could crack open the case and it is up to Lindsey to piece it all together. But things are not as they seem in the sleepy town of Briar Creek and when the driver of the stolen car turns up dead, Lindsey, her staff and her library friends have to hit the books before the murderer gets the last word...

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4.1/5

One-Day Crochet: Afghans: Easy Afghan Projects You Can Complete in One Day by Barb Asselin

Complete a beautiful crocheted afghan in just one day! Have you always wanted to learn to crochet but thought it was too difficult? Have you considered crocheting an afghan but thought it would take too long? Would you like to create a special and meaningful gift for someone? Are you looking for fun, easy and quick afghan projects to complete in just a day? If any of thes Complete a beautiful crocheted afghan in just one day! Have you always wanted to learn to crochet but thought it was too difficult? Have you considered crocheting an afghan but thought it would take too long? Would you like to create a special and meaningful gift for someone? Are you looking for fun, easy and quick afghan projects to complete in just a day? If any of these questions resound with you, then this book is for you! Inside you will find a review of the main crochet stitches and materials often used in crochet projects, in case you are new to the craft, or are looking for a refresher. Finally, you will find 10 beautiful afghan patterns that can be completed in just one day. Note that these patterns will help you complete a lap-sized blanket or a baby blanket. For larger projects, you can expect that you will need more than one day to complete. Are you ready to be creative? Just scroll up and download now so that we can get started…

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4.7/5

How to Draw Cool Stuff: A Drawing Guide for Teachers and Students by Catherine V. Holmes

How to Draw Cool Stuff shows simple step-by-step illustrations that make it easy for anyone to draw cool stuff with precision and confidence. These pages will guide you through the basic principles of illustration by concentrating on easy-to-learn shapes that build into complex drawings. With the step-by-step guidelines provided, anything can become easy to draw. This book How to Draw Cool Stuff shows simple step-by-step illustrations that make it easy for anyone to draw cool stuff with precision and confidence. These pages will guide you through the basic principles of illustration by concentrating on easy-to-learn shapes that build into complex drawings. With the step-by-step guidelines provided, anything can become easy to draw. This book contains a series of fun, hands-on exercises that will help you see line, shape, space and other elements in everyday objects and turn them into detailed works of art in just a few simple steps. The exercises in this book will help train your brain so you can visualize ordinary objects in a different manner, allowing you to see through the eyes of an artist. From photorealistic faces to holiday themes and tattoo drawings, How to Draw Cool Stuff makes drawing easier than you would think and more fun than you ever imagined! Now is the time to learn how to draw the subjects and scenes you've always dreamt of drawing. How to Draw Cool Stuff is suitable for artists of any age benefiting everyone from teachers and students to self-learners and hobbyists. How to Draw Cool Stuff will help you realize your artistic potential and expose you to the pure joy of drawing!

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4/5

Granny Square Crochet for Beginners US Version by Shelley Husband

If you've always wanted to try crochet, this beginners guide is for you. Even if you have never picked up a hook and yarn before, the step by step instructions and pictures will have you crocheting Granny Squares in no time. The e-book also contains useful information such as what to do with the loose ends, how to change colours, making your work look the best it can and h If you've always wanted to try crochet, this beginners guide is for you. Even if you have never picked up a hook and yarn before, the step by step instructions and pictures will have you crocheting Granny Squares in no time. The e-book also contains useful information such as what to do with the loose ends, how to change colours, making your work look the best it can and has links to ways to join the squares. Everything you need to know to is included. This is the US version which is what you'll typically use in the US and a lot of places around the world. If you're in Australia, New Zealand or South Africa, then the UK Version is for you.

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4.5/5

Murder with Lemon Tea Cakes by Karen Rose Smith

In an old Victorian in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Amish country, Daisy Swanson and her aunt Iris serve soups, scones, and soothing teas to tourists and locals—but a murder in their garden has them in hot water . . . Daisy, a widowed mom of two teenagers, is used to feeling protective—so when Iris started dating the wealthy and not-quite-divorced Harvey Fitz, she worried . In an old Victorian in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Amish country, Daisy Swanson and her aunt Iris serve soups, scones, and soothing teas to tourists and locals—but a murder in their garden has them in hot water . . . Daisy, a widowed mom of two teenagers, is used to feeling protective—so when Iris started dating the wealthy and not-quite-divorced Harvey Fitz, she worried . . . especially after his bitter ex stormed in and caused a scene at the party Daisy’s Tea Garden was catering. Then there was the gossip she overheard about Harvey’s grown children being cut out of his will. Daisy didn’t want her aunt to wind up with a broken heart—but she never expected Iris to wind up a suspect in Harvey’s murder. Now the apple bread and orange pekoe is on the back burner while the cops treat the shop like a crime scene—and Daisy hopes that Jonas Groft, a former detective from Philadelphia, can help her clear her aunt’s name and bag the real killer before things boil over . . . Includes delicious recipes for Iris’s Lemon Tea Cakes and more!

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3.5/5

How to Knit a Murder by Sally Goldenbaum

* Includes a knitting pattern *    A mysterious woman arrives in picturesque Sea Harbor, Massachusetts, and the Seaside Knitters welcome her into their cozy world of intricate patterns and colorful skeins. Unfortunately, nothing frays a warm introduction like cold-blooded murder . . .    With her shy manner and baggy jeans, Rose Chopra becomes an unlikely superhero the nigh * Includes a knitting pattern *    A mysterious woman arrives in picturesque Sea Harbor, Massachusetts, and the Seaside Knitters welcome her into their cozy world of intricate patterns and colorful skeins. Unfortunately, nothing frays a warm introduction like cold-blooded murder . . .    With her shy manner and baggy jeans, Rose Chopra becomes an unlikely superhero the night she stumbles into Izzy Perry’s shop and inadvertently saves a shipment of yarn from water damage. When the Seaside Knitters help the enigmatic handywoman settle into town and find work at a popular real estate company, Rose proves she can fix just about anything—until a potential homebuyer is killed and she becomes entangled in murder . . .   The moment controversial entrepreneur Spencer Paxton is found dead in a pricey ocean-side house, accusations fly at the last person on the property—Rose. But the Seaside Knitters have their doubts. After all, Spencer’s political aspirations as well as his company’s plans to pave over Sea Harbor’s historic art district with luxury apartments earned him some very real enemies . . .   Now, Izzy, Birdie, Nell, and Cass must swap knitting for sleuthing as they struggle to move the needle on a twisted homicide case causing turmoil across town. As tensions build in the sleepy New England community and Rose’s secret past unravels, the ladies face an unsettling realization—true victims aren’t always the ones buried six feet under . . .

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3.5/5

Hooks Can Be Deceiving by Betty Hechtman

National bestselling author Betty Hechtman brings the Tarzana Hookers to a winning thirteenth installment in the Crochet mysteries. It's going to get knotty. The Tarzana Hookers crochet club is ready for its close-up! But Molly Pink may be getting too close to a case that will land her on the cutting-room floor. Molly Pink’s excitement level is off the hook: The Craftee Chan National bestselling author Betty Hechtman brings the Tarzana Hookers to a winning thirteenth installment in the Crochet mysteries. It's going to get knotty. The Tarzana Hookers crochet club is ready for its close-up! But Molly Pink may be getting too close to a case that will land her on the cutting-room floor. Molly Pink’s excitement level is off the hook: The Craftee Channel’s new cable talk show “Creating with Crochet” has scheduled an upcoming taping at the bookstore. While she’s there, TV host Rory Graham is to work with the Tarzana Hookers on a Make and Take bracelet project to draw bookstore customers to the yarn section. It’s a win-win…or so it “seams.” The situation gets a bit knotted when channel producer Michael Kostner confides to Molly his concern that Rory may have oversold her ability as a crocheter. When the producer’s worst fears are realized, it’s up to Molly to make sure Rory comes through. Guiding Rory through crocheting-for-beginners will have to wait, though, as Molly suddenly has to untangle the mysterious death of a new Tarzana Hookers member. Marianne Freeman and her live-in companion, Connie Richards, haven’t exactly been gabby since they joined the Hookers, but Connie’s voice is silenced permanently when she is electrocuted while walking on a wet lawn—electrified by an old radio plugged into a faulty extension cord. The fingers point at Marianne, but Molly is fast on the case to protect one of her own. Was Marianne the killer…or the intended target? Why does her younger brother want to keep her from talking to the cops? And why is this whole case starting to remind Molly Pink of an old TV movie? Crochet patterns and sweet recipes included!

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3.8/5

Parchment and Old Lace by Laura Childs , Terrie Farley Moran

The New York Times bestselling author of Gossamer Ghost returns to the Big Easy and the historic Garden District, where scrapbook shop owner Carmela Bertrand discovers a bride-to-be murdered in the legendary Lafayette Cemetery… Carmela couldn’t imagine a finer evening than dinner at Commander’s Palace with her beau, Detective Edgar Babcock. The food and the company are equa The New York Times bestselling author of Gossamer Ghost returns to the Big Easy and the historic Garden District, where scrapbook shop owner Carmela Bertrand discovers a bride-to-be murdered in the legendary Lafayette Cemetery… Carmela couldn’t imagine a finer evening than dinner at Commander’s Palace with her beau, Detective Edgar Babcock. The food and the company are equally divine—with the exception of Isabelle Black stopping by to brag about her upcoming wedding. Resuming the romance with a walk in the evening air, the couple is interrupted once again—this time by a terrifying scream from inside the cemetery. Having just seen Isabelle, Carmela and Edgar now find her lying across an aboveground tomb, strangled to death with a piece of vintage lace. Carmela would rather leave the investigating to Edgar, but she can’t say no to Isabelle’s sister Ellie, the tarot card reader at Juju Voodoo, when she asks her to help. As she untangles the enemies of Isabelle’s past, Carmela hopes she can draw out the killer before someone else gets cold feet. INCLUDES SCRAPBOOKING TIPS  

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3.9/5

Crochet Afghans: Discover How to Crochet a Perfect Afghan in Less Than a Day by Emma Brown

Have you ever wanted to learn How to Crochet an Afghan? Most crocheting books save afghans and other types of blankets for the very end, if they are discussed at all. This is because crocheting afghans is presented by most crochet books as a very difficult and arduous process that can only be accomplished after mastering many different kinds of crochet stitches. This simp Have you ever wanted to learn How to Crochet an Afghan? Most crocheting books save afghans and other types of blankets for the very end, if they are discussed at all. This is because crocheting afghans is presented by most crochet books as a very difficult and arduous process that can only be accomplished after mastering many different kinds of crochet stitches. This simply isn’t true. Whether you are just learning how to crochet, have mastered crochet for beginners, or know every stitch in the book, Crochet Afghans can help you improve your technique and learn how to crochet an afghan in less than one day. What does Crochet Afghans have that other books lack? It’s an easy to follow, step by step guide, complete with color pictures and diagrams. It walks you through the most basic techniques and ensures that even the most difficult and complicated of stitches are thoroughly explained. This is why this book is perfect for anyone who wants to learn how to crochet afghans, whether they have no crocheting experience, or having been crocheting for decades. By the time you are done reading this book, you will have ALL of the skills and information you need to make intricate, beautiful afghans. The book starts with the very basics of crochet, to get beginners started and to act as a quick refresher for even the most experienced individuals. It then moves on to more complex stitches, breaking them down into easy to understand steps, so even if today is the first day you have a hook in your hands, you can easily get the hang of even complicated stitches. This process would have once taken years, sitting with someone experienced in crocheting. Now, all you have to do is read Crochet Afghans and you will be able to follow even complex crochet patterns. To speed up the process, the book also includes a full list of pattern abbreviations, to explain the crochet terminology that patterns and other crocheters use. There is also an FAQ added to answer any question you might have about crocheting afghans or different crochet stitches. What does this book provide? Here are only a few of Crochet Afghans’ benefits: • Full-color illustrations and diagrams • Teaches how to choose yarn and how much to buy • Beginning and advanced crochet techniques • Teaches how to start your afghan • 22 gorgeous Afghan patterns from beginner to advanced level • Teaches how to find more patterns • Best yarn color combinations • How to divide a crocheted afghan • Most common crocheting mistakes and how to avoid them • How to start and finish any kind of afghan.. Would You Like To Know More? Download Now and start Crocheting Your First Afghan today! Scroll to the top of the page and select the buy button. Check Out What Others Are Saying... "This is a wonderful book for those wanting to crochet afghans but don't know where to begin. It shows in detail all the stitches needed to get started and has plenty of wonderful images throughout. Many crochet stitches often used in afghans are given step by step. They include the ripple stitch, shell stitch and more. The book is well written, is broken down into chapters and it has a working table of contents.

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3.3/5

16 Crochet Shawl Patterns: DIY Clothing You’ll Love by Prime Publishing

Shawls from department store are always super expensive and made with scratchy yarns and fabrics. DIY shawls are the only way to go if you want the perfect piece to fit your budget and personality. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight shawl to drape over your shoulders on a sweet and breezy summer night, or you want a cozy shawl that’s thick enough to double as a scarf Shawls from department store are always super expensive and made with scratchy yarns and fabrics. DIY shawls are the only way to go if you want the perfect piece to fit your budget and personality. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight shawl to drape over your shoulders on a sweet and breezy summer night, or you want a cozy shawl that’s thick enough to double as a scarf, you’ll find what you need in 16 Crochet Shawl Patterns: DIY Clothing You’ll Love.

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4.3/5

Stitch 'N Bitch: The Knitter's Handbook: Instructions, Patterns, and Advice for a New Generation of Knitters by Debbie Stoller

With 40 stylish patterns, this guide aims to show young knitters how to get started, how to make it fun and how to make the hip clothes they want. Step-by-step instructions illustrate every technique.

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3.5/5

Stitch 'n Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker by Debbie Stoller

Debbie does crochet! Debbie Stoller, the “knitting superstar,” has been leading an entire movement of hip young knitters with her New York Times bestseller Stitch ’n Bitch and its follow-up, Stitch ’n Bitch Nation, together with over 521,000 copies in print. But guess what? For every one knitter in the world there are three crocheters—which translates into millions of hip, Debbie does crochet! Debbie Stoller, the “knitting superstar,” has been leading an entire movement of hip young knitters with her New York Times bestseller Stitch ’n Bitch and its follow-up, Stitch ’n Bitch Nation, together with over 521,000 copies in print. But guess what? For every one knitter in the world there are three crocheters—which translates into millions of hip, crafty, 18- to 35-year-olds ready to be happy hookers with Stitch ’n Bitch attitude, sexiness, ingenuity, and cool. Written in the author’s cheeky chick style, this heavily illustrated book—featuring four-color photographs and instructional illustrations throughout—is chock-full of instruction, inspiration, and to-die-for designs, from a Fishnet Skullcap to a lacy evening wrap. For knitters and new crafters exploring the hook comes the primer: the advantages of crochet and the ways in which knitters (and nonknitters) benefit by learning this sister craft; a discussion of tools; all the cool yarns available, and what the different gauges mean; plus basic techniques and stitch patterns—including the chain stitch, picot, flowers, filet crochet, changing yarns, and finishing. Then come 40 fabulous, funky projects—the kind that make Stitch ’n Bitch rule—for crocheters: Pom Pom Capelet, Retro Clutch Purse, Anarchy Irony Hat, Ms. Pac Man Change Purses, Doris Daymat, Va-Va-Va Voom Bikini, Animal I-Pod Cozies, Kid’s Sock Monkey Poncho. No, these aren’t your grandma’s doilies.

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4.3/5

Creepy Cute Crochet: Zombies, Ninjas, Robots, and More! by Christen Haden

Contains more than 25 patterns for zombies ninjas Vikings vampires aliens robots and even Death himself. Easy-to- follow patterns with step-by-step diagrams hilarious com- mentary and full-color photos. HARDCOVER Hachette Book Group

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3.8/5

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

"Long live the King" hailed Entertainment Weekly upon the publication of Stephen King's On Writing. Part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King's advice is grounded in his vivid memories from chil "Long live the King" hailed Entertainment Weekly upon the publication of Stephen King's On Writing. Part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King's advice is grounded in his vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported near-fatal accident in 1999 -- and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery. Brilliantly structured, friendly and inspiring, On Writing will empower and entertain everyone who reads it -- fans, writers, and anyone who loves a great story well told. (back cover)

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3.6/5

Doodle Stitching: Fresh Fun Embroidery for Beginners by Aimee Ray

Asian-inspired lampshades embellished with flying fish. Canvas sneakers decorated with pink and white swirls. A pretty pillow adorned with a sleeping bunny, sweetly curled up. All it takes to create these appealing projects—or add charming embroidered touches in no time at all—are a few simple stitches, some easy techniques, and the nearly 30 projects in this book. Begin b Asian-inspired lampshades embellished with flying fish. Canvas sneakers decorated with pink and white swirls. A pretty pillow adorned with a sleeping bunny, sweetly curled up. All it takes to create these appealing projects—or add charming embroidered touches in no time at all—are a few simple stitches, some easy techniques, and the nearly 30 projects in this book. Begin by learning several styles for outlining, filling, decorating, and appliqué. Find out about floss, fancy threads, fabrics, and needles. Get the scoop on hoops, and the lowdown on transferring your very own designs onto every type of fabric. The fresh ideas, witty patterns, and clever color illustrations take stitchers from novice to accomplished in a blink of the eye!

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4.2/5

The Big-Ass Book of Crafts by Mark Montano

The Big-Ass Book of Crafts is packed with ideas for sprucing up your living space; concocting fabulous, all-natural body products; designing your own unique stationery; and creating countless other crafts that will convince your friends and loved ones that you're the secret love child of Martha Stewart (only much, much cooler). Forget crocheted doilies and itchy knit sweate The Big-Ass Book of Crafts is packed with ideas for sprucing up your living space; concocting fabulous, all-natural body products; designing your own unique stationery; and creating countless other crafts that will convince your friends and loved ones that you're the secret love child of Martha Stewart (only much, much cooler). Forget crocheted doilies and itchy knit sweaters--TLC's While You Were Out top designer Mark Montano has created stylish and imaginative projects that range from a Warhol-esque Ultrasuede iPod case to photo-adorned boxer shorts to African mask patio chairs to wooden night-light boxes. Divided into sections that include Outdoorsy (ideas to enhance your backyard), Dishing It Out (decorating plates using different techniques), You've Been Framed (innovative picture framing ideas), and Can I Have a Light? (creating and decorating lamps, lanterns, and chandeliers), it's as entertaining to read as it is endlessly inspiring. With more than one hundred and fifty inventive and fun projects, The Big-Ass Book of Crafts is the perfect activity book for readers of every mood, budget, and skill level.

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4.7/5

Stitch 'n Bitch Nation by Debbie Stoller

Join the movement! Four million strong and counting, hip, young chicks with sticks are putting a whole new spin on knitting--while turning last fall's Stitch 'n Bitch: The Knitter's Handbook into a surprise national bestseller (from The New York Times to the L.A. Times to BookSense) with 215,000 copies in print. So influential is the book that the number of Stitch 'n Bitch Join the movement! Four million strong and counting, hip, young chicks with sticks are putting a whole new spin on knitting--while turning last fall's Stitch 'n Bitch: The Knitter's Handbook into a surprise national bestseller (from The New York Times to the L.A. Times to BookSense) with 215,000 copies in print. So influential is the book that the number of Stitch 'n Bitch knitting groups tripled in the past six months--spawning a Stitch 'n Bitch Nation. Written by Stitch 'n Bitch author Debbie Stoller, Stitch 'n Bitch Nation features 50 hip, new, even funkier and more fabulous patterns by Stitch 'n Bitch designers, who come from San Francisco to Brooklyn, Chicago to Cambridge to St. Paul, Minnesota. The Om Yoga Mat Bag. Felted Monster Slippers. The London Calling Union Jack Sweater, because even punks get cold in winter. A Double-Duty Shrug. Polka Dot Tankini. That '70s Poncho. The Boob Tube. Spiderweb Capelet, Cabled Newsboy Cap, Chunky Baby Booties and Baby Bunny Hat. And the most ingenious project, a Knit-Your-Own Rock Star doll--with a choice of Joey Ramone or Henry Rollins. All designs are complete with full-color photographs and step-by-step instructions, and are made from sexy, contemporary yarns, including multicolored angora, alpaca, lace, and mohair. Includes the best tips, shortcuts, and techniques from Stitch 'n Bitchers, profiles of knitters and their groups, and a how-to refresher on all the stitches used in the book.

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3.2/5

Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts: An A-to-Z Guide with Detailed Instructions and Endless Inspiration by Martha Stewart

For nearly 20 years, home crafters have turned to the pages of Martha Stewart Living for all kinds of crafts projects, each presented in the magazine’s inimitable style. Now, the best of those projects, including step-by-step instructions and full-color photographs, have been collected into a single encyclopedia. Organized by topic from A to Z, Martha Stewart’s Encyclopedi For nearly 20 years, home crafters have turned to the pages of Martha Stewart Living for all kinds of crafts projects, each presented in the magazine’s inimitable style. Now, the best of those projects, including step-by-step instructions and full-color photographs, have been collected into a single encyclopedia. Organized by topic from A to Z, Martha Stewart’s Encyclopedia of Crafts contains complete instructions and brief histories for more than 30 techniques, detailed descriptions of the necessary tools and materials, and easy-to-copy templates. Martha and her team of crafts editors guide readers through each subject, from botanical pressing and decoupage to rubber stamping and wreaths, with characteristic clarity and unparalleled attention to detail. Crafters of all skill and experience levels will appreciate the many variations presented for each technique. For example, candlemaking presents a comprehensive array of poured, rolled, and cutout candles, including instructions for making your own one-of-a-kind rubber candle molds, floating candles, sand candles, and more. Each craft in the book takes on charming new dimensions with innovations that could come only from the team behind Martha Stewart Living. In addition, each entry in Martha Stewart’s Encyclopedia of Crafts is chock-full of tips and advice. Handy glossaries in the entries–such as a comprehensive gem glossary, a glitter glossary, and a color glossary for making tinted wax–are valuable references that crafters will refer to again and again. What’s more, the Tools and Materials section outlines the best essential supplies that every crafter needs to have on hand, and the Sources pages clue readers in to the vendors and suppliers that the magazine’s crafts editors rely on most. Filled with solid technical know-how, and presented with gorgeous color photographs, this handy guide can be read page by page and kept as a lasting reference by crafters and artisans alike.

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4.4/5

Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People by Amy Sedaris

America's most delightfully unconventional hostess and the bestselling author of I Like You delivers a new book that will forever change the world of crafting. According to Amy Sedaris, it's often been said that ugly people craft and attractive people have sex. In her new book, Simple Times, she sets the record straight. Demonstrating that crafting is one of life's more pl America's most delightfully unconventional hostess and the bestselling author of I Like You delivers a new book that will forever change the world of crafting. According to Amy Sedaris, it's often been said that ugly people craft and attractive people have sex. In her new book, Simple Times, she sets the record straight. Demonstrating that crafting is one of life's more pleasurable and constructive leisure activities, Sedaris shows that anyone with a couple of hours to kill and access to pipe cleaners can join the elite society of crafters. You will discover how to make popular crafts, such as: crab-claw roach clips, tinfoil balls, and crepe-paper moccasins, and learn how to: get inspired (Spend time at a Renaissance Fair; Buy fruit, let it get old, and see what shapes it turns into); remember which kind of glue to use with which material (Tacky with Furry, Gummy with Gritty, Paste with Prickly, and always Gloppy with Sandy); create your own craft room and avoid the most common crafting accidents (sawdust fires, feather asphyxia, pine cone lodged in throat); and cook your own edible crafts, from a Crafty Candle Salad to Sugar Skulls, and many more recipes. PLUS whole chapters full of more crafting ideas (Pompom Ringworms! Seashell Toilet Seat Covers!) that will inspire you to create your own hastily constructed obscure d'arts; and much, much more!

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3.3/5

Knitting Rules!: The Yarn Harlot Unravels the Mysteries of Swatching, Stashing, Ribbing & Rolling to Free Your Inner Knitter by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee

Both a celebration of the craft and a sourcebook for practical information, Knitting Rules! is a collection of useful advice and emotional support for the avid knitter. Stephanie Pearl-McPhee unravels the mysteries of tangled yarn, confusing patterns, and stubbornly unfinished projects. Daring to question long-standing rules and encouraging crafters to knit in the way that Both a celebration of the craft and a sourcebook for practical information, Knitting Rules! is a collection of useful advice and emotional support for the avid knitter. Stephanie Pearl-McPhee unravels the mysteries of tangled yarn, confusing patterns, and stubbornly unfinished projects. Daring to question long-standing rules and encouraging crafters to knit in the way that works best for them, this illuminating, liberating, and hilarious look at the world of knitting is full of surprises and delightfully inspiring ideas."

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3.8/5

Bend-the-Rules Sewing: The Essential Guide to a Whole New Way to Sew by Amy Karol

potter craft amy karol uses her characteristic sense of humor and style to walk novices through every stitch of the sewing process from assembling basic materials and learning techniques to create 30 simple stylish projects that provide instant sewing gratification and confidence. trendy modern patterns for pillows curtains handbags pet accessories and even projects for th potter craft amy karol uses her characteristic sense of humor and style to walk novices through every stitch of the sewing process from assembling basic materials and learning techniques to create 30 simple stylish projects that provide instant sewing gratification and confidence. trendy modern patterns for pillows curtains handbags pet accessories and even projects for the little one in your life are all included. best of all amy explains what is easy what is hard and when not to sweat the small stuff. with its solid instructions great projects and best friend tone bend the rules sewing is the intro to sewing that no one will want to be without. softcover 143 pages. made in usa.

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3.3/5

Knitting Without Tears: Basic Techniques and Easy-to-Follow Directions for Garments to Fit All Sizes by Elizabeth Zimmermann

Do you love to knit -- and hate to purl? Have you ever started a sweater without enough yarn from the same dye lot to finish it? When you cast on, do you end up with a tail of yarn that's maddeningly too long or too short? Elizabeth Zimmermann comes to the rescue with clever solutions to frustrating problems and step-by-step instructions for brilliant, timeless designs. I Do you love to knit -- and hate to purl? Have you ever started a sweater without enough yarn from the same dye lot to finish it? When you cast on, do you end up with a tail of yarn that's maddeningly too long or too short? Elizabeth Zimmermann comes to the rescue with clever solutions to frustrating problems and step-by-step instructions for brilliant, timeless designs. In Knitting Without Tears, you'll find elegant designs for: Color-pattern Norwegian ski sweaters Seamless patterned-yoke sweaters Hooded garter-stitch jackets for babies Watch caps, socks, slippers, mittens, and more! This classic and influential book is poised to inspire a whole new generation of knitters who have yet to discover the joys and comforts of knitting. As the lady herself once put it, "properly practiced, knitting soothes the troubled spirit, and it doesn't hurt the untroubled spirit either."

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3.8/5

Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott

"Thirty years ago my older brother, who was ten years old at the time, was trying to get a report on birds written that he'd had three months to write. [It] was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books on birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the t "Thirty years ago my older brother, who was ten years old at the time, was trying to get a report on birds written that he'd had three months to write. [It] was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books on birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the task ahead. Then my father sat down beside him, put his arm around my brother's shoulder, and said. 'Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird.'"With this basic instruction always in mind, Anne Lamott returns to offer us a new gift: a step-by-step guide on how to write and on how to manage the writer's life. From "Getting Started,' with "Short Assignments," through "Shitty First Drafts," "Character," "Plot," "Dialogue." all the way from "False Starts" to "How Do You Know When You're Done?" Lamott encourages, instructs, and inspires. She discusses "Writers Block," "Writing Groups," and "Publication." Bracingly honest, she is also one of the funniest people alive.If you have ever wondered what it takes to be a writer, what it means to be a writer, what the contents of your school lunches said about what your parents were really like, this book is for you. From faith, love, and grace to pain, jealousy, and fear, Lamott insists that you keep your eyes open, and then shows you how to survive. And always, from the life of the artist she turns to the art of life.

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