Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

Book SynopsisFlorence Kennedy offers a unique, modern approach to flower arranging: breaking away from the stiff structure and formality of traditional floral displays, her floristry style is practical, accessible and achievable. In Flowers Every Day, Florence shows how to create stylish flower arrangements at home. Divided into four main chapters – Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter – the projects are inspired by the comely joys of home, friendship and family gatherings, and are all constructed using seasonal flowers and foliage. Explained step-by-step, the easy-to-follow projects range from simple hand-tied bouquets and vase arrangements, to floral chandeliers, wedding decorations and festive garlands and wreaths. All the core skills are covered, from sourcing your blooms, choosing your hues, working with wire and floral foam and conditioning both flowers and foliage. Florence's stylish collection of seasonally inspired projects and hard-earned know-how will help complete beginners, flower enthusiasts and florists looking for new ideas. Flowers Every Day is the must-have book for anyone who loves having flowers in their home and revels in sharing them with others.

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Book Synopsis A beautifully presented, practical gift guide to the age-old art of whittling. There are 50 projects featured in the book, ranging from quick makes to more elaborate projects, and even a chapter on creating things from cork. The 8 main themes are: Quick Things – including a doorstop, a bookmark and a gift-box book; Into The Woods – including a willow whistle, walking stick, fish hook and slingshot; Around The House – including chopsticks, coat and crochet hooks; Cork Creations – including a succulent pot, stamp, and earphones spool; Ornamental Carving – including a boat, a deer and a spinning top; Kitchen Carving – including a carrot flute, apple candle and onion flower; The Natural World – including a bird feeder and instructions to prepare a fish for cooking, a graft an apple tree. The projects cater for a range of skill levels and the instructions are complemented by smart step-by-step illustrations, which highlight the tactile quality of the material in hand. The book also includes an introduction with advice on selecting a penknife, maintaining your blade, choosing your caving material, and carving techniques. Featuring the ultimate crossover of cool craftsmanship and savvy survival-skill projects, this book is the perfect gift for creative adventurers.

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Book SynopsisYou probably know them best from March's electrifying University Challenge semi-final, which saw two of the series' most memorable contestants, dapper Bobby Seagull and fan favourite Eric Monkman, go head-to-head in a Cambridge derby between Emmanuel and Wolfson colleges. In this new quiz book, however, Monkman and Seagull are on the same team and their opponent is you!Containing over 540 questions - FROM THE MOST DIFFICULT, TO ONES DESIGNED FOR YOUNGER READERS, this book will see the devilish wits of TV's brainiest boffins put to the page for the first time, with tricks and tests to taunt even the smuggest sofa-shouter. From puzzles to pop quizzes on everything from particle physics to philharmonics, it's sure to perplex even Paxman.

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Book SynopsisA brainy book about great Britons. Pitt your wits against 100 quick and fun word puzzles based on famous British figures. These crosswords, word wheels, codewords and brainteasers will delight puzzlers of all ages. 100 quick and fun word puzzles based on famous British people in a cute pocket-sized package. Whether you are a wordsearch wizard or a brainteaser buff, this is the perfect book to help exercise your brain! There are wordsearches, crosswords, word wheels, codewords and all manner of verbal brainteasers to test puzzlers of all ages. You don’t have to know all about great Britons or British history to enjoy these puzzles – in fact they’re a brilliant way to pick up lots of interesting trivia as you solve the clues. There are solutions at the back of the book if you get stuck. This is a great little gift for yourself or others; the perfect way to while away the odd spare minute.

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Book Synopsis A beautifully presented, practical gift guide to the age-old art of tying knots. The next title in Pavilion’s exciting new series for adventurers, this book follows on from the success of 50 Things to Do with a Penknife. The book features step-by-step instructions on how to tie 40 fundamental knots, and then shows you how your new skills can be transformed into a selection of practical and decorative projects. The book is divided in four sections: Classic Knots – featuring the Reef Bow and the True Lover’s Knot. Knots in this chapter can be used to create a wall hanging. Camping Knots – featuring the Tent Pole Hitch and the Rope Ladder. Knots in this chapter can be used to create an outdoor mat and a beaded bracelet. Climbing Knots – featuring the Alpine Butterfly and the Spanish Bowline. Knots in this chapter can be used to make a coaster and a bag. Maritime Knots – featuring the Anchor Bend and the Dry Fly. Knots in this chapter can be used to make a plant hanger and a hammock. The detailed instructions are complemented by smart step-by-step illustrations, which highlight the tactile quality of the material in hand. The book also includes an introduction with advice on putting together the knot lover’s ultimate toolbox, alongside explanations of key terms and techniques. Featuring the ultimate crossover of cool craftsmanship and nifty projects, this book is the perfect gift for creative adventurers.

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Book Synopsis A unique book exploring the beauty, culture and craft of tools. Tools make our lives better. They help us to measure, plan, make, maintain, repair and make our ideas a reality. They are empowering, giving us the potential to do things for ourselves. Since pre-historic man first sharpened his first stone into a cutting implement, we have relied on tools to help us in carrying out even simple tasks. Nowadays, every industry has its own set of tools. What would a painter be without a brush, or a gardener without a fork? This book seeks to explore our relationship with these most fundamental of objects – those that allow us to realise our potential as makers, problem solvers and doers. Many are rightfully considered as design icons, whilst others reveal the improvisational skills of their owners, tweaked and adjusted to suit specific jobs through trial-and-error. Divided into three chapters – Wood and Stone; Earth, Metal and Glass; and Material, Cloth and Decoration – this book tells the story of 25 featured tools through the eyes of those whose craft and livelihood depend on them. Axes, drills, chisels, shaping tools and more are examined by masters of handmade trades from blacksmiths and spoon makers to sculptors and silversmiths. A range of ‘Collection’ features also showcase the beauty of tools en masse, as Hole & Corner explore the toolboxes of craftsmen including gardeners, upholsterers and architects. Celebrating craft, culture and skill, The Story of Tools explored the time and dedication it takes to make and master tools. This is the perfect read for anyone with a penchant for tools, crafts and beautiful design.Trade Review'Celebrates the often overlooked beauty of the humble tool' * Crafts *'This book would certainly appeal to anyone with a penchant for tools, crafts and beautiful design' * The Woodworker and Good Woodworking *‘A fascinating read' * Gardens Illustrated *

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Book Synopsis"Everything's better with some wine in the belly." - Tyrion Lannister, the self-proclaimed "God of Tits and Wine". You're not likely to sit on the Iron Throne or ride a dragon into battle against a horde of undead wights, but that doesn't mean you can't get into the Westerosi spirit - quite literally! Gin of Thrones is the ultimate cocktail book for Game of Thrones fans. Alongside 50 recipes are eight drinking games - one for each season - that can be played while watching the epic show. What do we say to the god of drink? Yes, please! Cocktails include: • Mother of Dragon (Fruit) • Shaken not Lannistirred • The Drink That Was Promised • Valor Mor-Guinness • Robin Arryn's MilkshakeTable of ContentsIncludes 50 Game of Thrones-inspired cocktails and bar snacks with ingredients and instructions alongside humorous serving suggestions and descriptions. There are also eight entertaining drinking games – one for each season – that are designed to be played while watching Game of Thrones.

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Book Synopsis A new edition of Rob Eastaway's classic guide to the rules of cricket. Cricket is one of the world's most popular sports, yet for the uninitiated, its peculiar laws and customs are a mystery. What is a 'silly mid off' and a 'long leg'? How can you be 'lbw'? And how can a match last for five days and still end up as a draw? In this fully updated edition of the classic guide, Rob Eastaway demystifies the jargon and answers the questions you've always wanted to ask. It's also a timely reminder that for the true cricket lover, the game can be absorbing and exciting even when the ball isn't being smashed for six.

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Book SynopsisStuart Hillard is on a mission to help quilters all over the world realize their quilting dreams and prove “it ain’t what you do, it’s the way that you do it” – one simple shape at a time. In the follow-up title to the bestselling Use Scraps, Sew Blocks, Make 100 Quilts, Stuart shows you how the easiest of shapes can make extraordinary quilts. The book is divided into five main pattern chapters: One-Patch Quilts – 20 quilts using a single, repeated shape.Strips and Squares – 20 quilts that turn strips and squares into a tessellated triumph.Triangles – 20 quilts using half, square triangles, half rectangles and equilateral triangles.Curves – 20 quilts that show off your curves.Foundation Piecing – 20 quilts to create unique blocks from the easiest shapes using paper foundation piecing. Simple Shapes Stunning Quilts teaches you the basics of quilt design; this book is packed full of pattern blocks that use the simplest shapes in order to build up your quilt. Each of the 100 blocks can be used to make one of Stuart’s quilt designs. Alternatively, quilters can adapt any of the pattern blocks; they can personalize treatments, colours and arrangements, add extra borders, and more. Making your own design is as easy as 1, 2, 3; 1. Select a simple shape to work with.2. Sew the shapes together to make the pattern block.3. Repeat the block to build up the full, stunning quilt. Alongside the patterns, and quilt design, Stuart has drawn on years of teaching experience to include the ultimate quilting hacks, tips and tricks, as well as his ‘rules’ for successful quilting. The techniques chapter cover basic skills, design skills, cutting skills, paper piecing, easy appliqué techniques and advice on how to add border and binding with the help of step-by-step photographs. This book is perfect for beginners attempting their first quilt, and experienced quilters looking for new inspiration. Stuart’s designs and irresistible enthusiasm reveal the power of simple shapes and will inspire you to make spectacular quilts your way.Trade Review'Suitable both for beginners and more experienced makers looking for inspiration' * The Quilter *‘A must for all quilting fans' * Women Together *'Perfect for beginners and for experts' * Yorkshire Post *

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Book Synopsis With this guide to mending and patching, you don’t have to say goodbye to your worn favourite clothes. Throwing away damaged, yet beloved, clothes can be one of the saddest things, but what if you were able to fix those holes and extend their life? With Mend & Patch, you can learn to take care of your clothes, mending, patching and repairing so you can cherish all your garments. In the furthest corner of her clothes store in Stockholm, Sweden, Kerstin has a mending studio where she gives a new lease of life to people’s favourite jeans. In this book, she arms you with the skills and ideas you need to mend your own clothes, whatever their wear and tear. There are emergency tips for mending in a hurry, including sewing in a button and repairing split seams. You will learn how to enhance your clothes with decorative stitches and how to mend with different materials, including leather, cotton, wool and denim. Packed full of simple fixes, as well as more advanced techniques, this book is perfect for sewers, crafters, and fashion lovers of all abilities and for those who want to lead a more sustainable lifestyle.Trade Review'Getting the most of your clothes has never been easier' * Let’s Knit *'Our favourite of all the mending books so far’ * Embroidery Review *'A brilliantly practical guide to repairing clothes and textiles' * The Simple Things *'Perfect for those looking to sharpen their mending skills and lead a more sustainable lifestyle' * Craft Focus *'Ideal for anyone who wants to learn the basics of mending garments with care' * Knitting Review *

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Book Synopsis A modern, stylish and practical exploration of the traditional craft of block printing. For self-taught textile designer Molly Mahon, there is something special about block printing that has stood the test of time. From the initial design process, through to the carving of the block, the mixing of the colour and the actual printing process, Molly has always found printing to be meditative. This book enables readers to explore this ancient craft through Molly's contemporary designs and the influences that inspire her use of pattern and colour, before teaching them practical skills and potential ways to transform their creations into beautiful homeware. The book is divided into three main sections:A Modern Block Printer: An introduction to Molly and how she found and nurtured her love of block printing. Also, Molly gives a brief history of the tradition of block printing. Design Journeys: Molly sees pattern everywhere she looks and this is what creates the basis of her blocks. When Molly is designing, it’s as if she goes on a journey, whether it be a walk in the forest or a work trip to India. She is constantly inspired by her surroundings in all that she sees and feels. Here the reader is taken on some of her favourite journeys with an inspirational sourcebook filled with beautiful images. Discover a brief history of block printing, design ideas and stories focusing on how India’s artisan craftspeople and traditional block printing techniques, nature and the Bloomsbury Group have all inspired Molly's designs. Practical Printing: This chapter focuses on how to block print, including information on key tools, step-by-step techniques for printing on paper and fabric, and pattern design advice. Follow instructions to make five simple homeware projects with your newly printed creations and find exclusive block templates drawn by Molly for you to copy and recreate at home. House of Print is a celebration of both the art of block printing and the joy of design.Trade Review'We loved how the book seamlessly marries old and new, giving us insight into the ancient craft, and then encouraging us to create contemporary, funky homewares of our own – quite literally putting our stamp on them.' * Independent, '13 Best Interior Design Books' *'The how-to section will get you printing in no time and the projects could readily be adapted to use as a base for further embellishment' * Stitch *'For a complete guide to block printing, including inspiration and step-by-step techniques, look for Molly Mahon’s House of Print.' * Your Home *'There’s insightful information on key tools, step-by-step techniques for printing on paper and fabric as well as pattern design advice' * Craft Focus *'Molly shares her secrets for stunning contemporary designs as well as some fabulous ideas for totally me made homewares.' * Sew *'A modern, stylish, and practical exploration of the traditional craft of block printing' * Simply Sewing *Molly Mahon has a magical, modern eye for block printing. I have long been a fan of her work. This book is both inspiring and practical and a must-have for anyone interested in creating their own pattern and print. * Cath Kidston MBE *'A gorgeous gift for any interiors or craft addict' * Irish Examiner *

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Book SynopsisThe motorcycle can lay claim as the most influential form of mobility becoming the embodiment of liberation and rebellion; never more so than in the 50s and 60s with the era of rockers, ton-up boys, the 59 Club and cafe racing. My Cool Motorcycle celebrates a love affair with motorcycles and the strong culture within the tight-knit community. Explore how the origins of the era of motorcycle subculture have lived on, through the fashions and spin-off cultures that this versatile machine has spawned. Looking back across a hundred years of the motorcycle, My Cool Motorcycle charts iconic makes and sought-after classics, along with a cross-section of passionate owners. Chapters include:It’s a Keeper: Exploring the irreplaceable and sentimental bond that determines a motorcycle as being 'a keeper’ whether its a cherished motorcycle being handed down generations, or a garage find sure to generate your own curiosity for local garages.The Wider Picture: Looking beyond stories of traditional ownership and exploring the motivations of individuals who take motorcycling one stage further.Diversity: Consider how some people choose to push aside conformity and extend the boundaries of their chosen path, adapting their persona and how they choose to live their life through fashion, hobbies, culture and, crucially, motorcycle ownership.Retrospective: The 1960s saw a dramatic shift in motorcycle ownership and the onset of the 1970s saw the biggest boom in motorcycle sales with everyone seemingly opting to take to the roads. This chapter is an opportunity to take a retrospective look at the exciting motorcycles indicative to this era of change.

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Book SynopsisRun wild with this new collection of minis from Kerry Lord and her Edward’s Menagerie animals. This is one of the new gift series from TOFT (Kerry’s yarn company), which contains four books, each with 25 crochet patterns on a different theme: Wild, Ocean, Farm and Pets. These mini animals are quick and easy to make so they are perfect for the beginner as well as giving the more advanced crocheter an afternoon’s fun. The books are practically organised so you start with the easiest pattern and, as you grow in confidence, you continue through the book, mastering the art of crocheting animals, from the simple snake to the patterned leopard, producing high-quality collectibles to keep or give as thoughtful, homemade gifts. This range of mini animals are totally new patterns for fans, new and old, to get hooked to. Sitting at 8cm (3 inches) tall, you can make your own cute collection, which could be used to create a nursery mobile, a board game, key rings and much more! Whether you’re in front of the TV, commuting to work or having a relaxing afternoon, these projects will bring mindfulness and creativity into your day. Patterns in the series include:Wild: Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhino, BuffaloOcean: Whale, Shark, Lobster, Starfish, Manta RayPets: Cockapoo, Iguana, Angora Bunny, Tabby Cat, TarantulaFarm: Pony, Alpaca, Sheep, Goat, PigTrade Review'The perfect introduction to crochet' * Simply Crochet *

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Book SynopsisHave fun at the farm with this new collection of minis from Kerry Lord and her Edward’s Menagerie animals. This is one of the new gift series from TOFT (Kerry’s yarn company), which contains four books, each with 25 crochet patterns on a different theme: Ocean, Wild, Farm and Pets. These mini animals are quick and easy to make so they are perfect for the beginner as well as giving the more advanced crocheter an afternoon’s fun. The books are practically organised so you start with the easiest pattern and, as you grow in confidence, you continue through the book, mastering the art of crocheting animals, from the little chick to the fluffy sheep, producing high-quality collectibles to keep or give as thoughtful, homemade gifts. This range of mini animals are totally new patterns for fans, new and old, to get hooked to. Sitting at 8cm (3 inches) tall, you can make your own cute collection, which could be used to create a nursery mobile, a board game, key rings and much more! Whether you’re in front of the TV, commuting to work or having a relaxing afternoon, these projects are perfect for bringing mindfulness and creativity into your day. Patterns in the series will include:Farm: Pony, Alpaca, Sheep, Goat, PigOcean: Whale, Shark, Lobster, Starfish, Manta RayWild: Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhino, BuffaloPets: Cockapoo, Iguana, Angora Bunny, Tabby Cat, Tarantula

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Book Synopsis Learn the ancient craft of making artisan pots, from clay preparation and drying to glazing and firing. You don't need much to make your first pot, just a piece of clay and an idea. At the same time, it's a craft one develops over a lifetime. Making Pots is a handbook both for the beginner and more experienced potter. Basic skills are taught along with a background explanation of the rich history of pottery. Step-by-step the potter, Stefan Andersson, guides us on the potter's wheel, glaze manufacture and firing, sharing his techniques and know-how. Stefan also describes how to set up your own workshop, make your own tools, and design, stone-by-stone, your own kiln. What happens if there's a pocket of air in your clay? If the potter's wheel slips when you centre the clay? Or if the pots fall apart as you decorate the slipware? For each section there are also solutions to common problems. The book is founded on Stefan's enterprise and production of wood-fired ceramics with photos and diagrams describing the tasks and techniques. Chapters include:Clay PreparationDryingGlazingFiringKilnsToolsForming Techniques

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Book Synopsis Join Stuart Hillard as he expands his expertise from quilt-making to bag-making. Not just a sewing book, Bags for Life teaches you the diversity of bags that you can create once you have learnt the basics. With projects for all levels of crafter, you can work your way up from the simpler tote bag to various, more complicated, projects – such as a toiletry bag or overnight bag With 21 stylish projects for every occasion Stuart provides achievable patterns, fast makes for all abilities and professional looking results. Delving into the anatomy of the bag, take a visual tour of the various parts of different bags, before moving onto the specific details of pockets, zips, piping, binding, straps and handles and even metalwork. Divided into 5 chapters, there is much to choose from – whether you want to make re-usable shopping bags or a crafters bag that holds your yarn, there is something for every crafter out there. Chapters include:A Trip to the Market: trolley bags to shop and go; simple drawstring produce bags; expanding market tote; and a wallet.A Day at the Beach: Convertible tote 'n' towel; splash proof sling and book bag; and multi-purpose hobo perfect for carrying food, blankets and even baby essentials.A Picnic by the Lake: Picnic bag with insulated interior; bottle carrier; and drawstring games and play mat.A Meeting in the City: The ultimate workbag with room for a laptop or tables; the overnight attaché; and a don't shoot the messenger bag, an everyday essential.A Weekend in the Country: The ultimate weekend bag with plenty of pockets; an absolute essentials roll-up pouch; and a multi-pocketed zippered toiletry bag.A Great Afternoon In (for every crafter!): Knitting bag to store your current project in style; a sewing machine bag; a project pouch; and a drawstring project bag. With 2 pattern sheets, step-by-step illustrations and lifestyle photography, there really is nothing stopping you from creating a whole host of homemade bags in a fun and sustainable way.Trade Review‘Stuart provides achievable patterns, fast makes for all abilities and professional looking results’ -- Craft Focus'Impressive' -- Simply Sewing

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Book Synopsis Carving Kitchen Tools is the beginning of your woodworking journey and is a practical guide to creating your own beautiful utensils. From the all-important wooden spoon to butter knives, salad servers and spatulas, Moa Brännström Ott shows you how to create kitchen implements that will bring individuality and personality to your home. As well as this, Carving Kitchen Tools explores the variety of different woods, their properties and the whittling techniques to which they are most suited. With step-by-steps to illustrate the correct grips for knife and wood, tips on how to source your wood and details on the tools you need, this book is the perfect guide to this surprisingly simple and mindful craft. Projects include:Butter knivesFrying utensilsStraight spoonsCurved spoonsSalad serversKuksa cups

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Book SynopsisWhat are the insider tricks and secret skills that make a LEGO Certified Professional's builds so awe-inspiring? How do you show action, intrigue and drama? How do you make your build move, glow - or even explode?This comprehensive, behind-the-scenes guide from the star judge of LEGO Masters Australia shows you how to scope any LEGO project, large or small. All the key skills are covered - from settling on a design, prototyping and considering size, scale and structure, to harnessing pro techniques like SNOT (studs-not-on-top) and 'jumping off the grid', as well as adding awesome action features that will bring your build to life.Packed with fascinating insider tips and illustrated examples of each skill, and featuring one of Brickman's own builds as a case study to reinforce the key techniques, this book is a backstage pass to your most impressive LEGO creation yet.'If I had a copy of this book when I started out, it would have saved me learning the hard way!' Ryan McNaught, BrickmanTable of ContentsIntroductionHow to use this bookBrickman's Castle Build SKILL 1.DESIGN AND PREPARESKILL 2.FORM AND STRUCTURESKILL 3.SCALE AND SHAPESKILL 4.SNOTSKILL 5.TELLING A STORYSKILL 6.DETAILSSKILL 7.THE NEXT LEVELAppendixGrid papersIndexThanksBrickman's challenge answers

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Book Synopsis This beautiful book of functional, stylish designs for babies contains over 20 unique knitting patterns for sweaters, cardigans, vests, dresses, blankets, bootees as well as a cosy wrap for mum or dad. Combining true comfort with contemporary design, in a world where time is precious and clothes are often mass-produced, Danish knitwear designer Vibe Ulrik Sondergaard has produced a delightful range of garments that are worth investing time into. Many of the designs focus on texture and shape in solid colours, and all aim to be comfortable for babies. Beautiful stitches, quirky details, classic shapes and lush yarns are combined to inspire others to create their own unique garments and accessories.Trade Review‘If you are looking for a real all-rounder baby knits book, perfect for pieces that will be treasured for years, we can’t recommend Lullaby Knits enough’ -- Knit Now magazine

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Book SynopsisA must-read for anyone with an adventurous spirit, a yen to whittle and chop, and a desire to get out into nature and play with sticks! These 50 achievable ideas for making and playing with sticks – all with beautiful step-by-step illustrations – make a great gift. The next title in Pavilion’s best-selling outdoor adventure series, Fifty Things to Do with a Stick will introduce you to the joy of making something out of almost nothing. With a few gathered twigs and sticks, start with simple ideas such as making plant markers or tent pegs and work up to constructing a lantern or woven basket. Working with wood is common to nearly every culture – it’s nature’s most adaptable raw material, malleable yet strong, and biodegradable. Until the 1960s woodworking was taught widely in schools, but since then has been in decline, robbing generations of the satisfaction of making useful things by hand. Richard Skrein begins by guiding you in choosing sticks and tools. Four chapters with evocative illustrations take you step by step through projects to use at home; to make music and decorative objects with; to play with; and to use out and about – the perfect accompaniments to a camping trip (2020 and 2021 saw unprecedented campsite bookings in the UK, and this trend is set to continue). This is the perfect book for anyone wishing to be more self-sufficient. Find your inner explorer with these battery-free, no-emission ideas! Chapters include:Home Sticks: cutlery, coat hooks, brooms, candlesticksStick Craft: jewellery, weaving, mobiles, picture framesStick Play: catapults, musical sticks, magic wands, story sticksCamp Sticks: lanterns, ladders, stools, stick bread! Word count: 15,000 wordsTrade Review Praise for Fifty Things to Do With a Stick by Richard Skrein: ‘Mixing woodland wonders with savvy survival skills, this is the modern guide to the age-old art of bushcraft.’Countryside magazine ‘This book is a great gift for all ages and features lots of top tips and skills to learn. Anyone who loves the outdoors would be happy to find this book in their stocking. And you'll be glad of them if you get stuck out in the wild!’Caravan magazine, January 2021

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Book SynopsisJohn Ryan's model railway at Over Peover, Cheshire is a story on continual development. He first became interested in model railways at the age of five when his father took him to see A4s, A2s and A1s hurtling through Doncaster railway station on the East Coast Main Line. At Christmas 1955, he acquired his first train set a Hornby-Dublo three-rail `Duchess of Montrose'. Other train sets were acquired and layouts constructed - all OO gauge - until the fascination for O gauge took control. This was in the early 1980s and when, a little later, success and finances became available all his OO gauge locomotives and rolling stock were sold or swapped for O gauge models and he began constructing one of the largest layouts of its type in the country. The switch to O gauge coincided with his teaming up with Norman Solomon, an expert track-builder, who has been involved in the various stages of John's present enormous layout. Other people have supplied stations, goods sheds, coal hoppers, viaducts etc. John runs models of the locomotives he saw whilst a youngster in Doncaster during the 1950s and many are illustrated here. He also has a keen interest in the LNER locomotives built at Doncaster so that the layout can be operated in two periods - 1930s and 1950s. Carriages and wagons also fall into these two periods. Some of John's most impressive carriages include the `Silver Jubilee', `Coronation' and Pullman sets. Text within the book follows the development of model railways in Britain, Doncaster Plant Works' association with locomotive, carriage and wagon building, John's various railway layouts as well as touching upon his business interests. Photographs in the book show in fine detail and from different angles all aspects of the layout to such an extent that the viewer almost believes they are part of a real railway.

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Book SynopsisThis quiz book covers the fascinating journey of Hibernian Football Club throughout the past 142 years. Offcial club historian Tom Wright has used his comprehensive knowledge of the sport and the team to devise over 600 questions spanning from the early days of the club to the present. This is the perfect book for fans of all ages to learn more about the history of one of Scotland’s greatest football teams.

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Book SynopsisAnnoyed? Upset? Distraught? Want to stab a sharp object into something? Then this book is for you. Stitching for public protest is not new. First-wave feminists in the US and in Britain used needlework in their demonstrations and public protest lectures during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. However, needlework and other handcrafts declined throughout the twentieth century, with second-wave feminists arguing against 'the oppression of the needle'. In the 21st century, though, there has been a steep resurgence and many are now turning to crafts, especially needlework, as an activism strategy. Feminist Betsy Greer makes this point strongly when she proclaims 'I think every act of making is an act of revolution'. Inspired by the banners and signs at marches around the world, Really Cross Stitch takes all that anger, outrage and protest and puts it inside a pretty, decorative border. Along with some wonderfully snarky commentary and general annoyance. Featuring more than 40 truly original cross stitch designs, the book contains instructions on techniques for new stitchers from making to finishing a stitch. There is also a handy list of required materials to get you ready to stab.Trade ReviewIf you want some Radical Cross Stitch, or ideas for start your own craftivism campaign, Rayna Fahey's book will do the job! Packed with politically inspired designs, thoughtful commentary and a sassy sense of humour, it's a good addition to any socially minded stitcher's library! * Mr X Stitch *The patterns in this book are 1) ah-mazing and 2) great for any graph-related project. So whether you cross stitch or not, this book is absolutely perfect for any graphing fiend [...] * Yarn Geekery *Table of ContentsIntroduction A Short History The Basics You Will Need… How to Cross Stitch Patterns Acknowledgements

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Book SynopsisFind papercutting perfection with the help of papercut artist Georgia Low and recreate gorgeous nature-themed designs with a stack of paper and your trusty craft knife. From field to forest and stream to sky, capture the harmony and beauty of the natural world with just some paper and a craft knife. This beautiful book includes step-by-step instructions for 20 exquisite nature-themed papercut projects designed by papercutting artist Georgia Low. A well-known figure in the world of papercutting, Georgia's artwork has received international recognition and gained an online following of over 27 thousand Instagram followers – and now she's sharing her designs with you. With projects including greeting cards and party decorations, framed artwork and paper flowers, you can fill your life with idyllic pastoral scenes, cute creatures and lush florals. The book is suitable for papercutters of all levels, and contains all the information and guidance you need to get started. Each project also comes with a template to cut out, trace, or download so that you can recreate your own stunning works of art.Table of ContentsMeet Georgia 1. Equipment & Techniques Tools and materials Transferring your design Using craft knives Cutting techniques Using a screw punch Scoring and folding Framing 2. The Projects Wildflower card Happy floral hare Framed fern Leaf favour box Peony frame Gold leaf garland Red squirrel Honeycomb bookmark Simple flower trio card Butterfly wall art Bear bunting Bird and feather mobile Cake topper Feather place name Fox and hare lantern Layered stag artwork Flower picture Hummingbird glass decoration Succulents Bee papercut Toadstool gift tag 3. The Templates Index Credits

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Book SynopsisLETTERING & CALLIGRAPHY WINNER OF THE CREATIVE BOOK AWARDS 2023 Providing oodles of inspiration and hours of fun, this is the go-to book for fans of hand-lettering and calligraphy. Beginners can start right from the basics and follow step-by-step tutorials on letter formation, spacing, design, and embellishments before moving on to recreate 40 alphabets in a range of styles, from elegant scripts to modern geometric forms and charming, quirky letters. Use your skills to add a personal touch to everything from invitations to scrapbooks, doodles to wedding stationery and journals to posters. Accompanied by over 75 full colour illustrations, this book offers hours of fun and oodles of inspiration for hand-lettering beginners and experts alike.Table of ContentsAbout This Book The Classroom Adjusting the letter height Letter spacing Writing tools The Alphabets Accents and Punctuation Glossary Credits and Resources

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Book SynopsisDiscover the common treatments and imitations plus gemstone properties, sources and typical cuts of stones, including a guide on appraisal techniques. Jewellers and designer goldsmiths, lapidaries and gem cutters, stone setters, gemologists, geologists, collectors and people who buy and sell jewellery at antique fairs and on the internet, this book is for anyone who has ever had a gemstone and wanted identification and information. Featuring a mix of gemstones and gem-set jewellery, it puts gems in context and contains historical context for those buying and selling antique and vintage gem-set jewellery, including details of the stones typically found in Georgian, Victorian and early 20th century settings. Packed with fascinating gemological details and up-to-date data on more than 70 of the most exquisite gemstones, and written by leading expert, Judith Crowe, learn the common pitfalls in identifying stones and clarify areas of confusion and misidentification.Table of ContentsAbout this Book Gemstone Identification Gemstone Appraisal Technical Methods of Identification Colour Gemmological Information Properties of Gemstone Material Optical Properties Inclusions Sources Gemstone Treatments Synthetics and Imitations Cutting Pricing and Grading Gemstone Directory Diamond Corundum Beryl Chrysoberyl Spinel Topaz Tourmaline Andalusite Iolite Quartz Zircon Garnet Jadeite Spodumene Zoisite Peridot Prehnite Orthoclase Feldspar Plagioclase Feldspar Sugilite Opal group Hematite Scapolite Diopside Turquoise lapis Lazuli Natural Glass Sphene Apatite Chrysocolla Rhodochrosite Fluorite Malachite Organic Coral Amber Birthstones Glossary Index Credits

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Book SynopsisNeedle felting is one of the fastest-growing popular crafts in the UK, and Steffi''s other books have been a hugely popular. In this new title there are 30 magical characters to make, from fairies and sprites to gnomes and wildlife. Hand-drawn illustrations and clear instructions show every stage of the projects which are suitable for all levels of expertise. Fabulously engaging photographs throughout complement the illustrations and bring each character to life.

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Book SynopsisThe perfect companion for any family outdoor day, a joyful introduction to the crafts available in any piece of woodland. Woodland Crafting guides the reader on making things with wood, in the woods, with a series of beautiful hand-drawn illustrations. It provides the basic knowledge and skills to complete a range of both simple and more advanced craft projects, from functional structures to creative outdoor play forms. You?ll learn how to choose and work your wood effectively, use simple tools, tie knots and develop your own designs to make masks and puppets, night torches and staffs, arrows, jewelry, ladders, shelters, chairs for stargazing and much more. This book has all you need to know to make working with wood fun.This book, previously published as Making Woodland Crafts, is the perfect companion for any family outdoor day, a joyful introduction to the crafts available in any piece of woodland. It is guaranteed to get children (and their parents, siblings, grandparents?) out and about and enjoying nature.

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Book SynopsisWhat is it about these knitted animals that captures children?s imaginations? Here is an irresistible collection of animals to knit in soft, natural wools: ducklings, teddy bears, lambs, piglets, hedgehogs, a handsome rooster, and many more. Most of the projects can be quickly and cheaply knitted with small oddments of wool, and many can be completed in an hour or two. Ideal for knitters looking for ways to reduce their yarn stash!

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Book SynopsisModern braided ropes have transformed sailing with incredible strength from ever smaller thickness. They are a godsend to the racing sailor who is always looking for strength without additional weight. The nature of these ropes requires different techniques to join them together or make eyes to attach to fittings and this is where this book comes in. It is a guide to the different types of braided ropes – where to use and how to splice them for typical uses on a racing sailboat. It provides clear easy-to-follow photographs and is splash-proof and spiral bound, which means that it is perfect to take into the dinghy park or onboard and use where you need to do your splicing. It lays out flat, so you don’t have to hold it open as you follow the sequences with both your hands full of rope and fids!Trade Review“Narrowly focussed and completely practical… if you need to splice a rope to a block, make a soft shackle, a sheet loop, a taper or a continuous line, here are the step-by-step instructions.” (Yachting Monthly)Table of ContentsIntroduction; Stitching / Whipping; Brummel splice; Singe end eye splice; Adjustable eye splice; Soft shackle; Continuous line; Taper; Sheet loop; Split tail mainsheet; Elastic splice; Equipment & tips

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Book SynopsisFrom the Celts to the Tudors, the Georgians to our Queen - coins from all around the United Kingdom show many wonderful designs. With 22 full page illustrations to colour in, each providing a contextual history, this book will provide hours of fun for coin enthusiasts of all ages.

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Book SynopsisA beautifully-illustrated colouring book celebrating the magic of the natural and human worlds, and those who inhabit them. Featuring detailed line art of tarot cards, herbs, flowers, mandalas, the moon, the mountains, creatures of the night and much, much more, this book is a spellbinding celebration of modern witchcraft with its focus on healing, mindfulness and meditation. Every illustration is accompanied by text on the opposite page about the magical element being displayed. Illustrated by bestselling artist Claire Scully.

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Book SynopsisMore than just a colouring book, Immortal Ink is a celebration of tattoo art and features a collection of art in different styles.Featuring 45 incredible designs from talented tattoo artists, each illustration is as inspiring as it is fun to colour. With artwork in eight different styles including Americana, Japanese, Blackwork and Steampunk, each daring design offers you the opportunity to unleash your own creativity as you add your choice of stylish colour. The accompanying text delves into the history and ethos of each genre and explores the rich and fascinating symbolism behind individual elements used in every spectacular piece.

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Book SynopsisBe enchanted by the power and beauty of the natural world with this stunning colouring book, filled with 46 intricate illustrations by ink artist Stratten Peterson. From the courageous bear, a symbol of strength and healing, to the inquisitive deer, a manifestation of inner wisdom, discover how animals have long inspired spirituality, mythology and one’s connection with nature. Through insightful text, this book invites you to explore the significance of each mystic animal, then immerse yourself in the extraordinary artworks as you bring them to life with colour.Mystic Animals is brought to you by the publisher of the bestselling Kerby Rosanes colouring book series.

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Book SynopsisNo matter what we're into, geeks of the world share a few common traits: intense and unconditional enthusiasm and the relentless urge to know, and then prove we know, every last thing about the objects of our affection. The ultimate quiz book for old-school nerds, Vintage Geek celebrates a splendid selection of 20th-century fandoms, from Fifties' sci fi cinema, Sixties' Star Trek and Seventies' Stephen King to Eighties' actioners, Nineties' Batman 'toons and more. With a foreword from Simpsons writer Mike Reiss, Vintage Geek additionally features a fabulous fifty celebrity-penned questions from the likes of Mark Hamill, John Carpenter, George Takei, Sam Neill, Mark Millar, Tom Savini, Pat Mills, Yeardley Smith and Sam J. Jones. Vintage Geek is here to chew bubblegum and assess the limits of your trivia knowledge - and it's all out of bubblegum!

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Book SynopsisCharacter Design Quarterly (CDQ) is a lively, creative magazine bringing inspiration, expert insights, and leading techniques from professional illustrators, artists, and character art enthusiasts worldwide. Each issue provides detailed tutorials on creating diverse characters, enabling you to explore the processes and decision making that go into creating amazing characters. Learn new ways to develop your own ideas, and discover from the artists what it is like to work for prolific animation studios such as Disney, Warner Bros., and DreamWorks.

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Book SynopsisCharacter designers take inspiration from beautiful botany and, in this project-focused title, each create a brand-new character based on nature, with step-by-step tutorials allowing readers to follow along.From mushroom fairies to swamp-dwelling beasts, and Mother Nature herself, we have seen countless characters inspired by the delicacy and harshness of the natural world.The projects include notes on the ideation, research, design, and creation of the characters, leading to a stunning final image, plus a gallery from each artist showing more of their nature-themed works.Budding artists will love learning how to create these much-loved botanical characters, while more experienced creators will enjoy seeing how experts design something original. Even non-artists will want to own this book packed with beautiful imagery and intriguing, enchanting characters.The illustrative artwork is created both digitally and traditionally, with styles ranging from anime-inspired to watercolor, all with a fantastical, magical aura.

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Book SynopsisSo, you want to get better at poker? You are committed to this and you are prepared to spend time on it. You ask advice and what do people tell you? Probably something along the lines of "just keep working on it and you'll get there." ----- This is wrong. "Just working on it" will not help you. Randomly analysing hands, watching poker on TV or vaguely looking at equity equations won't cut it. The only approach that will work is the right sort of practice based on a relatively new area of psychological investigation - the science of expertise. ----- This book identifies precisely what this "right sort of practice" entails. It is based around what has become known as purposeful practice. Purposeful practice is the gold standard for anyone who wishes to take full advantage of the remarkable adaptability of the human brain and is the fast track route to improving your poker skills. ----- This book will give you: ------ * A clear theoretical understanding of the science of purposeful practice - * Numerous techniques by which this can be adapted to improvement at poker - * Specific exercises designed to create an infallible Plan for Poker ImprovementTrade ReviewHaving worked with both Dr. Cardner and Gareth James in the past, it's no surprise to me that they have dedicated the time and detail necessary to address a huge challenge which plagues most learners: focused study. Dr. Cardner is an expert in understanding the psychology of learning practices and the common resistance points that most encounter. Gareth is incredibly well versed on the mathematical models which govern the game of poker. Together I have no doubt they have created an incredible learning tool in Purposeful Practice for Poker.--- Matt Berkey, High Stakes Poker Pro & Owner of Solve For Why

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