Customer Reviews (1)

CRAFTS
There is a book that has 8 books in one about crafts.This is one of the books.I recommend you finding the larger book. ... Read more

Product Description
French steel-cut beads, mother-of-pearl buttons, spools of vintage ribbons . . . This exquisite book showcases the decorative bits flea-market hunters dream of. Hundreds of photos reveal rare European notions from the craft community's most beloved emporium, Tinsel Trading Company. With these vintage baubles as her inspiration, Kaari Meng shares projects that crafters can make with their own flea-market finds or with contemporary materials they have on hand: a button charm bracelet, whimsical petite prize medals, an heirloom-worthy memory book, shimmering handbags, and more. Kaari's colorful inspiration boards lend design guidance, while her tips and resources help notion-lovers build up their stash of treasures. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Not Good Enough
Too many pages of filler. This book is 155 pages long and 85 pages are dedicated towards the craft projects. There are 15 unusual projects. It is a nice little book but they could have removed many of the pages that were not inspiring. This book could be used as a reference for antique French notions. This is the list of the projects: button charm bracelet,little ladies,embroidered pin cushion,crocheted metallic purse,specimen shadowbox,Japenese Temari ball,egg shrine,tassel necklace,lucky horseshoe,petit prize medals,millinery flower pin, sequined bird, opera bag, memory book, wired nest and eggs.

Lovely Little Book!
This is a truly lovely little book. It was a gift to me for Mother's Day, the giver obviously knows me well because this sort of thing is just my cup of tea.

It was highly educational, I learned a lot of terms & history on many of the "notions" I run into all the time as a professional crafter. Sometimes books like this are only valued for their pictures and not really read through. But I started reading it from the beginning and what she has to say is really inspiring. I had a good time both looking at the pictures and reading it.

The only reason I short this book a star, I was actually pretty disappointed, after reading about her amazing grandfather and his business in the first few pages, that there wasn't a picture of him. I do wish they'd thought to just include a little image of him along with his story. I really like to have faces to put to such stories, and there were so many lovely photos in the book I feel it would have just made it complete.

So let's say more like 4.5 stars.

A Great French Notion
I enjoyed the book very much. I especially liked the story about the Tinsel Trading Company and how it evolved into the Company it is now. I would have liked to have seen more pictures of the notions found in the basement. What a treasure trove!The pictures were a treat to the eyes.I also enjoyed the inspiration boards and I am sure I will refer back to them.I would recommend this book to anyone interested in vintage notions.

It Gave Me Some Notions of My Own
This is a small book with a lovely square design. From the gold-edged pages to the interesting design elements on the pages, it is a treat for the eyes. I was expecting (and hoping for) more photos of the treasures unearthed at Tinsel Trading Company (as opposed to the craft projects). And I would have liked to have seen photos of the now-famous dusty basement chock full of goods of that famous company. I think the book could have stood solely on the premise of writing about TTC, rather than trying to incorporate crafting projects into the second half of the book. That aside, the photos are gorgeous and profuse. I especially liked the inspiration boards made with antique/vintage items. I don't think I would do any of the projects in this book; to me they seem more inspiration-oriented that actual "I want to make that." I would recommend the book for the beautiful photography. It's given me some ideas of my own for photographing small objects and craft projects. All in all, a nice book that I'd recommend. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Great for school age children!
Love this book and all of the great ideas! Teaches we don't have to have store bought supplies to create neat crafts! I especially like the homemade glue.This is a wonderful book for anyone looking for ideas for a scout troop or just want to use what you find on a nature walk with your children. These ideas get the creative juices flowing and are great for those of us who aren't looking to create masterpieces... just great memories with our kids.

I got my hopes up
I absolutely am not crafty or creative so I was looking for a natural craft book so I could do them with my 3 year old. I found this book and it appears to be well illustrated and clear but I was dissapointed. Not only is not well illustrated but the layout is not user friendly at all. I do not recommend it. I'm still looking for that nature craft book that suits my needs. ... Read more

Product Description
Express your creativity, make memories, and inspire family fun and laughter with the easy-to-do projects in 501 Fun-to-Make Family Crafts, published by Better Homes and Gardens (R). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Beautiful color photos, short on practicality.
I am still trying to figure out where the 501 crafts are in this book, considering there are only 224 pages. The photos and projects that are included arecolorful and beautiful, but not practical. I'd have to make a few trips to the store to purchase the materials needed for these projects. Better to subscribe to a magazine like "Pack-o-fun" or buy a different book if you are looking for projects you will actually take time to create.

501 Fun to Make Family Crafts
We are enjoying tthis craft book.Lots of fun ideas to do with the kids!!

Wow!So many different projects in all seasons!
In this book, they grouped the projects with nice symbols and by season to make it easier for you.There are Nature Projects, Back-to-School Projects, Bird Projects, Sport Projects, Pumpkin Decorations, and a whole lot more!The Cool Paper Book Covers in the Fall Season are a good project for kids (as well as a lot of other projects for kids).My favorite project in the book are the heart embellished Valentine Day cards.I haven't made any of those projects yet, but I am sure I will have so much fun making them! :-)

Great book of crafts for the holiday and fun with Kids
The wife enjoys all kinds of crafts. When she saw this book she knew it would be a keeper. She enjoys working up things to make with the kids. It provides a lot of things we can make with the kids. A fun family time.

some many ideas so little time
This is a great addition to any kids craft library.

The ideas a grouped by seasons.We haven't done any of these craft yet. We are having a hard time chosing one to start with!Lots of fun for years to come! ... Read more

Product Description
For experienced sellers of arts and crafts pieces or novices eager to sell that first piece, this book will provide the inspiration and instruction needed for success. Filled with unique and sure-to-sell projects, the book offers from-the-crafter techniques and proven tips on displaying and selling.

100 original, new projects to make, with step-by-step photos and detailed instructions.

Detailed suggestions for displaying and selling each project shown.

A wide variety of easy techniques, including painting, sewing, woodworking, nature crafts, Christmas crafts, and flea market crafts.

Advice and suggestions from experienced crafters on successful crafting and selling. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great book!
This book had everything I was looking for. Great pictures, excellent descriptions in both how to make the product, how to promote it, sell it and display it.Very happy with it.

I wasn't too impressed
I bought this book thinking it had a lot of great craft ideas, but I was wrong. A lot of the crafts and ideas are too eccentric and too nouveau for my tastes. For example, I wouldn't consider making tassels as gifts or even to sell and I thought this craft was a bit eccentric. Then again I realize there are some who are into this type of craft, but realistically I don't think many of the crafts would sell well in an average bazaar or craft sale. Maybe for a gallery, but not for the normal craft sale afficianado.

There are some good ideas, like painting glassware, but there just too many gallery-type crafts in this book. I was sorely disappointed and I returned this book.

Just be ready for gallery-type crafts.

Crafts to make and sell
This is the BEST craft book I have found. It really has nice things to make that are fast and cheap to make, and that really bring in the PROFIT! ... Read more

Product Description
A delightful craft book for children integrates simple directions and colorful photographs to offer everything needed to make clever projects that celebrate spring, from Victorian eggs and bunny puppets to simple jewelry and egg-carton tulips. Original. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Easy to Create Easter Crafts for Almost Any Age
This book, 175 Easy-to-Do Easter Crafts, is filled with a wonderful assortment of crafts made from recyclable things and inexpensive items you will find in and around your home. All you need to have for many wonderful hours of enjoyment are pencils, crayons, scissors, tape, and other craft supplies you probably already have around the house.

You and your children will have hours of fun making a variety of crafts. Each project has a list of items needed and the basic steps for completing the project. The colorful photos show the finished product so that you can see what your creation should look like when you are done.

This is a fun and easy to follow book that lies flat, has fairly large print, and pictures of every project. There is even a material index in the back of the book.

This book is good for parents, grandparents, Sunday School classes, and elementary or preschool teachers.

175 Easy-To-Do-Easter Crafts: Easy-To-Do Crafts, Easy-To-FindThings (Easy-to-Do Crafts Easy-to-Find Things)

... Read more

Product Description
The 50 simple projects in this volume all utilize contemporary felts that are inexpensive and widely available. Some projects call for simple machine stitching or hand stitching, but more that half require only fabric glue and iron-on adhesives. Projects include felt cards, felt notepad covers, marine flags wall banner, felt art, felt belt, multi-coloured felt shoes, rose-clad felt hat, rock 'n roll skirt, pet mobile, doggie scarves, decorated pillows, quilt, Celtic banner and a wine bottle bag.Amazon.com Review
With its bright colors and no-fray edges, felt is one of the most enjoyable materials around, and certainly the easiest with which to work. Today's new felts--in plush textures, or embossed with rich designs resembling snakeskin, leather, or wallpaper--make crafting with felt even a little sophisticated. Check out Katherine Duncan's Fabulous Felt Crafts for dozens of whimsical ways to craft with this festive fabric, all nicely presented and thoroughly explained. For kids, try making things like the notepad covers, butterfly pin, moon and stars valance, pet mobile, rabbit in a hat puppet, or regal child throne. Grownup attire includes a reverse-appliqué vest, sassy felt shoes, hats, and an elegant evening bag. For the home there are pillows, wall hangings, a collaged table, a beautiful tree skirt, and much more. Complete patterns are included, along with a simple embroidery stitch guide. A gallery of unusual felt creations explores the work of talented felt artists. --Amy Handy ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

As creative and colorful as the subtitle says!
If you like felt crafts, you're sure to love this book. From practical to whimsical, from cute to wild, these crafts offer something for everyone. There are frames, banners, pillows, accessories, toys, and more. Oneproject offers an amazing new take on felt: using a woodburning tool tocreate a Celtic banner. You might not need to make these projects - thebook is presented so well, you can browse it like an art book! You're sureto come away smiling. ... Read more

Product Description
Step-by-step instructions and an abundance of illustrations show how to create decorative boxes, mirror frames, and fanciful soap dishes; fashion attractive bracelets, pendants, necklaces, and earrings; encase shells in resin to make paperweights and napkin holders; do shell printing with crayons and linoleum blocks and much more. Includes updated list of supply sources.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Shell Shocked
I wish I could have seen the inside of this book before purchasing it. The description made it look like what I was needing for an upcoming beach themed party but, it didn't deliver any fresh ideas. The pictures are black and white or drawings. Copyright is from 1977 and updated in 1993 so it was before so many simple materials and techniques were available. It is informative from the aspect of names of materials and types of shells. Newer books have much better illustrations and instructions for the novice arts and crafts person. For the published time period it was perfect but not for todays decor.

So fun!
We just bought a beach house and have a 10 yr. old daughter.We can collect shells and follow the craft ideas and make memories to last forever.Love it! ... Read more

Product Description
In this enriching collection of eleven interrelated essays, the ancient relationship of art, order, and craft is explored. Craft is considered as a "sort of ark" for the transmission of real knowledge about being, and about our deep creative aspirations. aspirations. Contributions from D.M. Dooling, Joseph Cary, Paul Jordan-Smith, Michael Donner, Harry Remde, Jean Kinkead Martine, Jean Sulzberger, Chanit Roston, and P. L. Travers. The Work is by this group of authors writing not as individuals but as members of a community. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

buy it immediately
One of the finest, sweetest little books on quality and excellence you might ever find.I found it by happenstance (? serendipity) in a used book store and have cherished it ever since.It is a lodestone.Buy it along with Eric Booth's "The Everyday Work of Art" and then help turn the tide of mediocrity and mindlessness in the world. ... Read more

Product Description
This delightful book presents 25 practical projects that make glorious use of natural shells and the easy-to-use format allows you to create beautiful and functional objects for your home and garden, froma rock-pool fountain to a driftwood and shell mirror. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Shells, (New Craft Series)
Nice book, Has some instructions but wouldn't be my pick if you want to a "how to" book

SHELLS by Mary Maguire
This is a good book for those who have always wanted to experiment with the craft of shellwork. Mary Maguire's book is descriptive in text and also offers great photos with step-by-step instructions for the 25 featured projects, both large and small. Perfect for both the beginner and the seasoned shell crafter. ... Read more

Product Description
"Wirework" seeks to remedy the neglecting of wire artwork by illustrating the stunning wire pieces of contemporary artists, and showing in simple step-by-step sequences how to create 25 beautiful decorative and functional projects.Amazon.com Review
A glance around any posh urban design store indicates thatwirework is making a comeback, perhaps because its simple lines canwork just as well in a cottage as in a city setting. As the 25easy-to-follow step-by-step projects in this book demonstrate,hand-formed wire objects may be charmingly rustic (such as thewall-hung spice rack) or elegantly utilitarian (such as the gracefulcopper bowl). But the effect need not be stark: even if you didn'tthink you wanted wire accessories in your home, the scrolling delicacyof the picture frame, the clean geometrics of the woven wire chairseat, and the lacy elegance of the garden lantern may hook you. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Some nice projects, but...
There were some very nice projects in this book.However,detailed instructions are lacking severely.In fact, the amount ofwire needed for each project is not in the materials list.Sometimes you get lucky and the instructions state to cut a certain number of pieces a certain length.I need an idea of how much wire I need to have in a continuous length.(Try "Making Wire Jewelry" by Clegg & Larom for great jewelry projects with step-by-step instructions).Also, the authors seem to be fascinated by chicken wire.Far too many of the projects use chicken wire; from the look of the cover photograph, I really didn't think this would be such a sculpting book.And forgive me for being snide, but there is even a *pipe cleaner* project.I was really hoping for more examples of the fine work done on the cover.However, it does have some great projects, and the chicken wire stuff is very nice.I am exaggerating here - I guess there are only 3 chicken wire projects.Combined with the pipe cleaners, and silly projects like the "Pocket Clips" (really, I can't begin to explain them), the toilet paper holder (yes, really!), and the bicycle toy, I was really disappointed.

But there are a few gems.There is a votive candle chandelier that is fabulous, along with the bowl seen on the cover.The toast rack is too cute.There are no jewelry pieces in this book.If you are looking for a solely wire book (as opposed to wire mesh/chickenwire), this book is not for you.It really is a nice book, but just not what I expected.But then again, for the price, it is a nice little book.

Fabulous!Wonderful projects abound in this book!
I loved this book!Photos are beautiful--instructions are easy andunderstandable even for the beginner. Projects are varied--from thechandelier to the seascape mobile to the wine bottle carrier.Great how-toinstructions for every technique. ... Read more

Product Description
"Over 500 Pages of Step-by-Step Instruction!

*Features more than 70 gorgeous craft projects*Covers a wide range of crafts including rubber stamping, card making, decorative painting, mosaics, and wreathmaking*Great value!—over 500 pages for only $24.99

This is the one-stop readers need to get creative and enjoy a range of crafts quickly. From making original greeting cards to creating personalized gifts and beautiful accessories for the home, this mammoth reference gives crafters the accessible illustrations and step-by-step instructions they need to try new techniques or to find new inspiration in familiar categories." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Big Book of Crafts
This books has several sections dealing with different types of crafing, such as rubber stammping, card making, decorative painting, mosaics, andwreathmaking. Great value with over 500 pages of information.

Crafts Galore and More
Ok, so I admit I'm not very crafty - actually the word KLUTZ comes to mind when I think of myself with a hot-glue gun or a paintbrush - but with this excellent guide to crafts I have actually managed to not only complete a number of craft projects: but they truly looked not only presentable but downright nifty.

In this economy, which basically stinks, money is at a premium and gift buying or decorating for the holidays can be a real poser but this book has helped me tremendously in the fight against genteel poverty. Buy the book!

Wonderful Gift for Crafter
I gave this book to my grand daughter who is an avid crafter. She was delighted! She is anxious to start some the crafts. ... Read more

Product Description
Say hello to your new best pals. These felted friends hail from Japan homeland of all things cute. Inside this book, you'll find over 25 translated patterns that combine the appeal of authentic Japanese content with the ease of English instruction. Cheerful photographs, step-by-step directions, and helpful how-to illustrations make it easy to whip up both water- and needle-felted projects. There's no knitting involved; simply treat raw wool fibers with either a felting needle or water and detergent to create these little creatures. Cute and cuddly, they're also useful! An elephant cozy warms a teakettle; a whimsical bird mobile adorns a nursery; wee mouse pincushions hold your needles; while piglets, giraffes, zebras, or sheep carry all your gear in handy totes and pouches. Practice with these projects and then adapt the techniques to design your own personal stable of felted friends. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

fun and easy
I love this felting book..its fun and easy and great pics to do your projects....B.W.

Adorable and Useful...
The projects are sweet and varied. I love the variety which you can build off and the friendly inviting photos.Some criticisms are fair, the author could provide more information and yes, beginners might stumble here and there. A felter with a wee bit of experience should easily overcome the book's few shortcomings. (Use the 'Look Inside' feature for an overall impression of the book. Keep clicking on 'Surprise Me.') Maybe I'm as easily influenced as soft wool, but I feel the author put genuine effort into this book. I adore it; it's like holding a friendship in your hands.

Remember it *is* from a Japanese book
The next two books are courtesy of the Kyuuto! Japanese Crafts book seriesby Chronicle Books. The series includes four books: Amigurumi, Fuzzy Felted Friends, Lacy Crochet and Woolly Embroidery. Since I don't crochet I only have the embroidery and felting books.

The books were originally published in Japanese and have been translated into English. We've all run into badly translated foreign movies, instructions, and websites. These are nothing like that. They have been remarkably well done. The only thing that gives away their foreign nature is the naivete of the text.

Woolly Embroidery begins with 33 pages of color photos of the motifs and projects. This is followed by a guide to wool embroidery, useful tools and materials and thread color charts. There are also clear illustrations for 30 different decorative stitches. I find that particularly useful. The patterns are adorable, some even having a touch of that 1970's crewelwork look that's so popular.

Fuzzy Felted Friends is laid out in the same manner, with about half the book being full color photos of the projects. Several pages of step-by-step photos of the different techniques follow. The instructions for the projects are next and, fortunately, have both metric and standard measurements. It includes projects for wet and dry felting, for both felted animals and pouches/bags, for useful items and purely decorative cuteness.

I would say these books are suited to the crafter who has had some experience.However, they do have projects that are do-able by the beginner with a little bit of patience. I do wish there was a little bit more substance to each of them but $15 for an 80 page softcover book is still fairly reasonable.

Gorgeous pictures, but not for beginners
Although it may seem like a very small book, coming in at only 80 pages, "Fuzzy Felted Friends" is packed tightly with patterns for felted projects - 25 in total, and as the series title suggests, these items are CUTE! Projects included in this book include pincushions, tea cosies, bags, purses, mobile phone charms, card cases and toys, all of which take the form of some sort of cute animal. As I have said in some of my other reviews of craft books, although I really enjoy making cute soft toys, I just don't have the space for them in my house anymore (not that that stops me from making them), so the fact that most of the items in this book have some purpose, other than sitting there and gathering dust, makes it very appealing to me. I can make these items without feeling guilty.

The projects in this book are a mixture of needle felted and water felted items made from raw wool (no felted knitting or crochet patterns are included). The book is divided into three sections, the first section gives colour photographs of each of the projects, the second gives brief instructions on the general techniques required to make these projects (only about 10 pages in total), accompanied by black and white photographs, while the third section gives more detailed instructions for making the individual items (with black and white line illustrations). The pictures in this book are gorgeous, and for me, this book was worth buying just to admire them. However, the instructions are somewhat lacking. As a felting beginner, I would have liked more guidance on making these projects. Nevertheless, I would think that more experienced felters would enjoy this book immensely.

Lot of felting without needles
I was excited to purchase this book, since I recently invested in the supplies necessary for needle felting.The cover of the book suggested that the projects inside would appeal to me.The book was ultimately disappointing, because other than the dogs on the cover and a few other projects most of the content requires wet felting rather than needle felting.Although some of the projects such as the bird coin purse look great, I don't have the materials necessary for wet felting.

This book would not be good for beginners because the instructions are vague, and consist mostly of patterns and dimensions.Little guidance is given on how to construct and attach basic shapes.

If you enjoy both needle and wet felting this would be a good choice for you.If you are only interested in needle felting then do not buy this book - choose one that is devoted solely to needle felting. ... Read more

Product Description

Who knew taking care of the planet could look so good? Eco Craft shows how, with 30 truly beautiful home décor projects that elevate environmental consciousness to stylish new heights. Every idea is amazingly clever: who would ever have imagined that plastic six-pack can holders could become a chic Moorish-inspired filigree tri-fold screen? Or that glass baby food jars would make a charming candle chandelier? Every project features at least one beauty shot in a modern home setting, easy-to-follow instructions, and step-by-step color photos, while handy icons spotlight the key techniques, materials, and the estimated time to complete each project.

Customer Reviews (5)

Going Green!
Some great stuff in this book, glad I found it - very quick delivery, nice seller, too

eco
This is a great book for beginners that want to start craftingeco-friendly stuff.

A winning presentation perfect for any crafter's collection
Over 30 green projects inspire crafters to turn 'trash' into stylish home accessories with ECO CRAFT, a survey of creative ideas, step-by-step photos, and environmentally conscious projects. From a cd-case towel rack that does double duty as a photo display to a tray made from a discarded suitcase and dresser handles, this is a winning presentation perfect for any crafter's collection.

Incredible and versatile--I will never look at "trash" the same way again!
I could not believe how cute and wonderful the projects were in this book.First of all, I fell in love with the screen which I thought was made from delicate, cut paper pieces.Then I absolutely ADORED the decorative bowls made from old paper pulp.I mean, how brilliant!I finally have a use for the beautiful scraps of paper left over from my scrapbooking which I just can't bear to get rid of!

And my jaw, if it was capable, would have literally hit the floor over the incredibly beautiful chandelier (YES, chandelier!) made from baby food jars and wire and old barrel hoops...I mean, it's enough to make me try to hunt down old barrel hoops and take a fan out of one of my rooms to make room for it!

I honestly couldn't believe how awesome each project was.I also feel like getting my hands on some bamboo now to make trays!!!What great drawer dividers in themselves, besides the cute paper mache ones she makes out of old takeout box lids...

I just have to stop writing now because I'd keep writing for forever and never get to making my hanging lamp out of a cut up milk carton...

Great Eco Crafts!
Great eco craft book to reuse the items that we all so often throw away!!!
My friends and I LOVE the tote bag made from Coffee Bags that aren't recyclable.We give them away to friends to use as reusable shopping bags ! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

The Recipient and the Giver benefit!
The title alone of this "crafty" book is intriguing. The concept of "spreading hope, one stitch at a time" is empowering and enlightening. I am a crafter; in fact, I an addicted one! I create, usually in crochet, sewing or jewelry, even when I do not have a person in mind as a recipient. Jade Sims' book, and her organization, which can be found at [...], solved that dilemma for me forever. Her approach is down to earth, her ideas easy and usable, and her list of charitable organizations that will accept well-made hand-crafted donations is extensive.

Two things I admire in Sims' writing and compiling of this book: Firstly, she is a mother and a crafter herself. She is not advocating something that she does not practice herself. Secondly, before you begin any of the projects in the book, she has a wonderful chapter on Crafting Hope with Care. In this chapter, she discusses honestly and in detail the responsibility we have as donors to "give in a way that is respectful, responsible, and empowers the recipient..." Take time to learn about the culture or religion of the people to whom you are donating your creations. Give locally whenever you can--contact local shelters, food banks, women's abuse centers, and churches for ideas about where you can make this happen in your town.

The projects in the book are varied; knitting, (but no crocheting, a lack for me, since I don't knit!) sewing (dolls, simple pillowcase dresses, quilts, pillows), soap, toys, jewelry, book bags...all have a place in these pages. There is even a charming dog tug toy to make and donate to your local animal shelter! Use the book as a starting point for your own ideas and creations, or contact the charities Sims' lists in each project's directions.

There are hundreds, indeed probably thousands, of organizations that can be helped by your crafting efforts. Whether you are working alone, with a group, teaching scouts or schools, Craft Hope will give you the ideas you need, the patterns to help, and the charities to assist. Take the time to visit the websites of the organization Ms. Sims suggests, learn about their needs and their focus. We don't have to be rich, or have a huge talent--all we need is heart, hope and the will to help to bring joy and comfort to those in need.

As for me, I have started crocheting a red scarf, based on the knitted version shown on page 29. A great book with a message--and a means to pass on the message!

by Laura Strathman Hulka
for Story Circle Book Reviews
reviewing books by, for, and about women

Giving through Crafting
I am thrilled that National Tie One On Day is listed in Craft Hope as an apron recipient (pg 26)! While National Tie One On Day puts the "give back into Thanksgiving," Craft Hope is heartfelt-giving through crafting, and we have Jade Sims to thank for translating her personal crusade into one that is now worldwide. The global crafting movement that Jade facilitates is inspirational, and that she does this from her home, with snippets of time carved from a busy day with her wee family, is amazing. Craft Hope is artfully presented, but more importantly to me, is the ease of the instruction accompanying each craft.

Even if you aren't moved to participate in Craft Hope through crafting, you give by purchasing this book - $1.00 from its sale is donated to Global Impact. Such is the win-win of Craft Hope.

Simply Amazing!
Have you ever wanted to make crafts for other people but were unsure where to start? Well then this is the book for you. With over 30 projects, there's really something for everyone. Every project is accompanied with a charity that you could give the item to or ideas of where it could be of use in your community. The book contains very detailed instructions with nice pictures to help you in the creating process. "Craft Hope: Handmade Crafts for a Cause" also chronicles the beginning of [...], an online community with projects that help people around the world, as well as the Earth itself with its most recent project, Project 8, helping to clean the animals caught in the gulf coast oil spill by donating washcloths to help in the cleaning effort. Please support this great cause and help other people by buying this book! I can't wait to get started on projects of my own from this book.

Awesome Book!
I got my book a couple of days ago, and have already started searching my stash for materials.The instructions are clear, with beautiful pictures of finished projects so I know what I'm getting myself into.I love to sew, but I can only give so much to friends and family, so I am excited to look into the suggested charities and start helping people while enjoying my hobby.

Crafty charity projects at your fingertips!
I'm so excited to see the crafty projects in this book.There is something for everyone and great potential to change the world, raise awareness, and provide a handcrafted item to someone in need.These are projects for bothlocal and global communities.You'll enjoy the motivating family projects to teach children the importance of giving, creating, and sharing. Savor the photographs, projects, designers, illustrations, templates and overall feel of the book for years to come.It's great to see Craft Hope - the book.I'm hoping for Craft Hope- the movie in the future -just sayin'...continued success with all of your endeavors. Margaret Nock (margknittinaround) ... Read more

Product Description
A collection of ideas for holiday decorating and entertaining. Over 80 dynamic craft ideas are divided into three sections: angels, santas and outdoor decor. ... Read more

Product Description
It's an exciting new world for crafters. Handmade is hip, creativity is what the market wants, and there are many profitable sales opportunities that didn't exist a few short years ago. For crafters who have more confidence running a sewing machine than setting up a Web site, The Handmade Marketplace breaks down and makes sense of the global possibilities for marketing and selling crafts.

First, determine the right price for every item — not too expensive and definitely not too cheap. Whether the product is beaded jewelry or felted slippers, illustrations or tote bags, author Kari Chapin helps crafters determine cost of goods, market competition, and the pros and cons of wholesale and retail sales. If the price is right, customers will buy.

Then it's on to selling. The boom in indie craft fairs and sites such as Etsy ("Your place to buy & sell all things handmade") is providing artisans with an ever-expanding marketplace for handcrafted items. Chapin demystifies every venue. She explains the guidelines that craft fairs impose on exhibitors, the typical yearly calendar of shows, and how to start a new craft fair.

For the crafter interested in online sales, there are tips on styling and propping crafts for photographs and technical explanations of how the most popular Web marketplaces run. Traditional brick and mortar consignment stores are still very good options for many crafters. Chapin explains how to approach shopkeepers and build strong relationships.

Wrapping everything up with media advice and tips on how to get the word out, The Handmade Marketplace is the sales and marketing bible that today's crafters need. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

the handmade marketplace:How to sell your crafts locally, Globally, and on-line
Very good book I am still reading it but it is full of great information. This is one I will probably read several times

Very Helpful!
This book totally helped me get my etsy shop, blog, facebook page, and twitter feed up and running. Gave me great ideas for marketing also! I am forever grateful!! [...]

Awesome Book!
I've been toying around with the idea of opening an Etsy store for a long time, but was pretty overwhelmed by the process. This book has been so helpful for me! After reading this book I am totally confident in my ability to succeed in the handmade marketplace. Thanks Kari Chapin for writing this book!

Handmade Marketplace
Sensible, down-to-earth advice for artists & crafters.
This book helps demystify my business questions.
It is easy & enjoyable to read; not dry.
This is the encouragement I've been looking for
to start my own business, doing what I love!
Wish it had been printed years ago.

Get your crafty business going
Wow!This is a very comprehensive book.I was having a hard time figuring out where to begin.I knew where I was and where I wanted to be, but had NO idea how to get there until this book.It has great ideas if you already have a business going as well. The book is super easy to read and understand.It is also very up to date utilizing the internet to help get everything going and maintain a stream of business.If you are interested in starting your own crafty business this book is a MUST. ... Read more

Product Description
Designed for children who would rather be outside than anywhere else. Organized season-by-season, it contains 50 challenging projects seeking to combine outdoor fun with scientific lore. It shows how to make: a birdbath; a barometer; wind vanes; carp kites; bird boxes; dyed eggs; an earth kiln; wild flower candles; pressed flower bookmarks; a wormery; an ant house; a sun dial; scented soap; leaf prints; pan pipes; plant perfumes; bath herbs; a sand painting; sand candles; leaf-stained glass; an evergreen garland; a seed mosaic; apple puppets; turnip lanterns; snow candles; winter bird feeders; a night sky constellation viewer; and bark rubbings. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

nature crafts for kids
This book has been a great addition to our school since and art classes.Easy to use and understand. Any teacher or home school family will find many useful and nice projects to make and learn from.

peaceful, creative, and attractive
This book combines fairly simple craft projects with an eco-friendly approach. Ideas are divided by season, as the availability of materials will vary, and projects range from animal sanctuaries and feeders to rustic toys and arts. The whole book strives to foster a love ofand respect for nature, discussing natural phenomena and facts about the everyday things we know little about. The whole feel of the book really worked for me, and I think imparting this respect for our planet is always a good idea, not only because we have to live here and treat our surroundings well, but because nature has so much to offer us. These ideas make for great shared experiences with a family or class. Great fun, educational, and filled with lovely photos and ideas.

True Crafting Book
I recently found this book at my local library and and loved it so much that I am looking to add it to my collection.This is not a book filled with cutsie fifteen minute projects that the kids do on their own, rather it is for adults to explore with kids, actually spending time with them.

My children detest most children's crafts; they would much rather create something that gets used in real life.They can hardly wait to try out the cement birdbath, and are already making the pocket sundials.I am overjoyed to see them finally taking joy in crafting.Projects that take time and effort to finish help teach kids to see things through to the end and give them a greater appreciation for the work others put into their creations.

Another great thing about this book is all of the extra information tucked in.There are boxes and pages dedicated to subjects such as types of bark, how to find the north star, and which birds eat which types of food.There are even sections on tracking animals, wind power, rain facts and how seeds travel.The information is interesting enough without over-doing it.

All in all, an excellent rescource for a parent who wants to spend time exploring nature with kids, or for an older youth who likes nature.

Nature Crafts for Kids
This book contains wonderful ideas for a wide range of ages using items found in nature. The crafts are arranged according to the season in which most of the materials will be found. They give alternate places in which tofind some materials or replacemant materials. There are great illustrationsand very good step by step instructions for creating the items.

Children that have this book available to them and have the help of aninterested adult need not be bored any time of the year.

Projects arefun, instructional and varied. Children can learn to enjoy nature,scienceand make many useful things using this book. Learning filled with fun andexcitement could be a subtitle for "Nature Crafts For Kids". ... Read more

Product Description
Making personal connections through the art of paper crafting is what Paper Crafts® magazine is all about, with greeting cards, keepsake paper creations, bags, tags, and other projects galore. This big 288-page book is the paper crafter s dream collection, compiling more than 500 of the best projects from recent years of the magazine and its special issues. Cards are a major focus, along with a bonus collection of paper crafted containers and keepsake treasures to accompany simple food gifts (recipes included!). Other projects include gift bags and tags, party invitations and decorations, banners, handmade jewelry, mini albums and journals, magnets, stationery, table place settings, and more. Cards of many shapes and sizes cover a wealth of topics, including birthdays, baby, weddings, mothers, fathers, teachers, teens, girlfriends, seasons, holidays, and all occasions. ... Read more

Product Description
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. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (84)

Crafting with whatever is around the house
This book offers lots of craft ideas, some of which rely on materials that you may not think of as traditional craft materials (things like faux marble vinyl tiles, which are used to make a faux marble tray). It also has tons of projects that involve very traditional craft materials like paper mache.

Many of the crafts are fairly quick projects, don't involve extensive directions, and most of them are pretty kitschy (but maybe that's the fun?). However, the great thing about craft projects is that they could be easily adapted to suit different tastes. I also like that so many of the crafts could be made by reusing things that are already around the house (i.e. tin can path lights, drinking straw lamps, dried bean wall hangings).

AKA The "Bad-Ass" Book of Crafts
This book has really fun crafts which are things that can actually make your world CUTER! I used this book to hold a series of craft nights at the apartment complex I work at and the residents LOVED it! We made coasters and bound journals! SOOO cute! SOOO personalized, soooo practical!

Big Ass Book of Crafts
I love this book.I also love that the seller showed so many pages in it.Most of them show the copyright page, blank pages, etc.How do they expect you to know what you are buying.Just because you see the pages doesn't mean you won't want the book.I love the way this seller displayed their book.You will get lots of sales!!!Good Luck!!!

Craftbookreview
I really enjoy the book.
Some of the stuff in there is a little weird, and not very plausible.
But its worth the price and nice to flip through.
Interesting book, with inspiring ideas that you can run with.

Quirky not low class
If you prefer the fun, quirky, low brow, kitsch, and at times delightfully tacky then this book is for you.

If you do not prefer fun, quirky, low brow, kitschy, and at time delightfully tacky crafts.Then this book is not for you.





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