Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

Book SynopsisEnter the whimsical world of Lulu Compotine's crocheted companions and bring her enchanting dolls and their adorable animal friends to life!

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive guide to 200 beautiful Fair Isle designs. Learn to read colour charts and rapidly gain the confidence to use these stunning designs to create your own stylish projects and garments. A unique "selector" at the beginning of the book makes it easy to choose a design you like. Organised by row and stitch count, each of the patterns is accompanied by an easy-to-follow chart indicating both the pattern stitches and the colours used, and each sample is shown charted in an alternative colourway. A "mix and match" feature lets you combine patterns with ease. Includes guidance on yarn choices and special techniques unique to Fair Isle knitting.Trade ReviewOnce you have fallen for Fair Isle, you are sure to want a wide selection of projects and ideas to enjoy. Fortunately Mary Jane Mucklestone's 200 Fair Isle Designs has enough to keep you busy for the foreseeable future. With help from this title, you can learn to read charts and grow in confidence as you begin to use Mucklestone's stunning designs to create your own garments and accessories. * Lets Knit *Mary Jane Mucklestone’s boundless enthusiasm for stranded colourwork knitting is infectious. Through her books, blog and patterns, she shares her love for Fair Isle, and for anyone wanting to create their own Fair Isle garments and projects, this sourcebook is a must-have. Mary Jane treats us to 200 life-sized swatches of the most beautiful, exquisite patterns. Each is accompanied by four charts, including a black-and-white version so you can choose your own colours, plus alternative colourways. The ‘mix and match’ feature helps you to combine patterns with confidence, while at-a-glance photo indexes make it easy to pick out patterns you like. Along with essential technique information, this book will have knitters playing with colour like never before. http://www.theyarnloop.com/article/top-10-best-ever-knitting-books * The Yarn Loop *Sept 12 Nothing can compare to the book I have just finished by Mary Jane Mucklestone – 200 Fair Isle Designs. You may know Mary Jane from Ravelry or Twist Collective where you can find her beautiful designs. The book is mainly a directory of Fair Isle designs but it gives an interesting account of some of the history and the different techniques used as well as exploring how to put colours together in your own Fair Isle. How many times have you wanted to re-colour a design but not known where to start or had the confidence to play with colour? Mary Jane takes you through harmonious colour choices and helps you to understand how colours balance each other. For me what really sets this book apart is the directory itself. Each design is shown both as a chart (in colour with different colourways, or black and white) and as a knitted sample. The latter isn’t just a few stitches to "give you an idea" but is a glorious, wide strip so you can really get a sense of how the pattern and colours work. Mary Jane has so inspired me that I can’t wait to design a new hat for my husband or put together some of these patterns in a cowl. As you can see I have already started playing. * julietbernard.blogspot.co.uk *OCT/NOV 12 A must for fashionable knitters, this guide features 200 beautiful Fair Isle designs. From simple one row "peerie" patterns to complex allover repeats, this book will thrill and inspire the knitter, experienced and beginners alike. Organised by row and stitch count, each of the patterns is accompanied by an easy-to-follow chart indicating both the patterns stitches and the colours used, and each sample is shown in an alternative colourway. A "mix and match" feature lets you combine patterns with confidence. This book also includes guidance on yarn choices and special techniques unique to Fair Isle knitting. * Craft Focus *May 13 A lot of knitters put off trying Fair Isle knitting because they think it looks too hard to master. Think again! It's actually far easier to work than it looks, but you'll need to know a few basics first, all of which are contained in these pages. Learn how to read the colour charts and then use them to create your own colourful knits. This book is very well ordered, the instructions are easy to follow and it's a delight to flick through when you're looking for inspiration. * Knit Today *Table of ContentsIntroduction How to use this book Essential skills The basics, Using colour, Using the patterns The Directory Swatch Selector, The Directory Index and Resources

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Book SynopsisAlison Smith MBE is one of the UK's most celebrated fashion and textile teachers and one of DK's best-selling authors. Her School of Sewing, based in Leicestershire, has been open for over 30 years, and in 2013 Alison was awarded an MBE for services to Sewing and Corsetry. She hosts her own online teaching platform - the School of Sewing Members Club. Alison has also taught at Liberty London.

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Book SynopsisA masterclass in drafting patterns from scratch

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Book SynopsisWoman's Own Book Club 2023 ‘A truly beautiful book. Rosie’s writing makes me want to close my laptop, step outside, and appreciate the magic that each season brings’ Jessica Elliot Dennison In her late-twenties, feeling utterly overwhelmed by the pace of modern city life, Rosie Steer found solace in the traditions she had been brought up with, influenced by her Scottish roots, that celebrated nature and observed the small steady shifts in the seasons. The Celtic Wheel of the year is an ancient seasonal cycle that aligns with solar events – the solstices, equinoxes and their midpoints. For each mini-season, Rosie shares nature notes for what we can look out for as the days get warmer or cooler, the nights longer or shorter, alongside activities, things to make, flowers or fruit to forage, seasonal recipes to enjoy and a modern take on the traditional celebrations. As the Wheel turns towards Imbolc on 1st February, we can make hand poured candles to welcome the return of the light, embrace the chill of a wintery walk with a flask of hot chocolate, and fill our homes with the scent of citrus making batches of marmalade. By slowing down and paying attention to the ebbs and flows of nature, we can find moments of calm whenever we need them.Trade ReviewSlow Seasons is a charming, thoughtful book that brings to life the importance of seasonal reflection. Rosie combines personal insight, craft and ceremony in a direct, approachable way that encourages us all to reconnect with nature across the year -- Mo Wilde, author of The Wilderness Cure‘A truly beautiful book. Rosie’s writing makes me want to close my laptop, step outside, and appreciate the magic that each season brings’ -- Jessica Elliott Dennison'A brilliant guide to embracing the wonder of nature, slowing down and celebrating simple everyday joys’ -- Willow CrossleyA reflective, inspiring guide to a life lived in harmony with the seasons. It is brimming with fascinating insights into the Celtic Wheel of the Year, as well as tempting recipes and practical projects. Slow Seasons is the perfect read for anyone who wants to connect with the natural world and live more intentionally. I loved Rosie Steer’s thoughtful suggestions for weaving together nature and home, and her gift for incorporating celebration and gentle ritual into everyday life. It is a beautiful, heartfelt, comforting book -- Laura Pashby‘A heart-filling book to keep close throughout the year. I love Rosie's pilgrimage through the Celtic wheel of festivals, showing us how to embrace seasonal joys and ancient rituals in our everyday. She shares her secrets for a slower life and encourages us to celebrate and marvel at the little things that shine light, even in the darkest times. A constant companion of wonderful stories, crafts and recipes’ -- Lucy Brazier, author of Christmas at River CottageSlow Seasons is a joyous invitation to embrace the present, observe the beauty enticed by each seasonal shift and celebrate with Rosie's stunning array of delicious recipes and rituals you'll want to revisit year after year -- Rachel de Thample‘Beautiful… a wonderfully calming read’ * Woman's Own Book Club *

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Book Synopsis50 pages x 50 stickers per page = 2,500 bright, beautiful stickers for any occasion! There's no such thing as too many stickers, and this GIANT collection ticks alllllll the boxes. Add them to your stash, use them in your planner, decorate snail mail, or share with your besties!

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Book SynopsisThis stunning gift book from the National Trust features enticing paper-cut artwork from Clover Robin, simple instructions to make 13 different origami pieces, wintry poems and 50 sheets of origami paper!

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Book Synopsis100 trompe l'œil mystery colouring pages based on the best portraits from Disney and Pixar animated films!

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Book SynopsisFor both experienced and beginner knitters, this is an inspirational collection of favourite motifs found in the traditional knitting of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and the Faroe Islands, including charming motifs of stars, hearts, flowers, leaping reindeer and dancers, as well as delightful geometric patterns, and more. Each motif is shown as a hand-knitted swatch, illustrated with clear, life-sized photographs and accompanied by easy-to-read colour charts, and a reverse colourway suggestion. With clear details on reading colour charts, and a full review of techniques for two-colour knitting, this book also gives advice on incorporating the Scandinavian motifs into a variety of different projects, allowing you to create unique designs. Includes guidance on choosing yarns, use of colour, and finishing techniques to help you hone your knitting skills and create stylish projects.Trade ReviewAug 13 The Scandinavian vibe continues to be a huge trend heading into summer, as it still reels from its winter success. This book certainly taps into the fashion with 100 authentic designs found in the traditional knitting of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and the Faroe Islands. Suitable for both beginner and advanced knitters, it is a collection of inspirational patterns and charming motifs, including flowers, hearts and stars. Each motif is shown as a hand-knitted swatch, illustrated with clear, life-sized photographs and accompanied by easy to read colour charts and a reverse colourway suggestion. With clear details on reading colour charts and a full review of techniques for two-colour knitting, the book also gives advice on incorporating the Scandinavian motifs into a variety of different projects, allowing readers to create their own designs. The techniques and information are basic enough to appeal to knitters and those needing a refresher too. * Craft Business *Sept 13 Following on from 200 Fair-Isle Designs, Mary is back with colourful Scandinavian knitting. Some of the designs will strike you as more obviously Scandinavian than others. Actual size swatches are shown together with charts and alternative colourways for the designs. The charts are easy to use. For all levels of knitters used to working with more than one colour of yarn, this is a useful book. Essential techniques are given for those unfamiliar with colour knitting. It includes symbols and motifs, animals, flowers and traditional geometric patterns. You can combine the designs to make your own unique patterns. There are also four projects included for you to make – a cowl, hat, mittens and pincushion. Great for those who like to design their own knitwear. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *Oct 13 This is such a great resource book for those looking for fairisle knitting designs. However, it's not just a dictionary of design but also a guide to more advanced knitting, such as steeking and designing garments. It's so accessible but gently stretching too. There are 29 pages on increasing, decreasing, working in the round and holding the yarn with heaps of tips for working with two or more colours. I've always loved going at my own pace with knitting, gradually teaching myself all the techniques one at a time, then coasting for a while until I get bored. I do feel as if I want to try the hat above, maybe in my favourite colour combo - white and red. There are four projects at the back of the book to knit - a cowl, a hat, mittens and a pincushion. The rest of the book is comprised of 168 design charts with an example swatch to show you what it looks like. There are black and white charts as well as colour charts and alternative colourway charts to inspire you. I love the Scandinavian look. The jumpers have really come back into fashion again, so maybe now is the time to knit your own? http://sewingisforgirls.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/150-scandinavian-knitting-designs-by.html * sewingisforgirls.blogspot.com *Jan 14 Scandi-style is more popular than ever and now you can incorporate the traditional designs into your knits with the patterns in Mary Jane's book. It's a veritable feast, packed with (yes, you guessed it) 150 different designs to use on winter sweaters, yokes, hats, gloves and more. Four patterns, for a hat, cowl, mittens and a pincushion, are also given. Helpfully, the swatches are all printed at actual size and essential instructions are given for those who are unfamiliar with colour knitting. * Knit Today *If you enjoy doing colourwork then this book has a wealth of ideas from single animal motifs to overall ideas for designs for bigger projects. It would be easy to mix and match the patterns to create your own designs. The charts are colour coded to the swatches and there is a second colourway suggestion to get one’s imagination going. There are great ideas for adding bits of fair isle to a garment, hat or cushion cover. I like the fact that the photographed swatches are real in size. An added extra are some simple patterns for a beginner who is new to fair isle to follow. The book also contains helpful hints for a knitter including different cast ons, how to steek and blocking and finishing techniques. I would highly recommend this book to add to your library. -- Monica Russel – Knitting DesignerIf you enjoy doing colourwork then this book has a wealth of ideas from single animal motifs to overall ideas for designs for bigger projects. It would be easy to mix and match the patterns to create your own designs. The charts are colour coded to the swatches and there is a second colourway suggestion to get one’s imagination going. There are great ideas for adding bits of fair isle to a garment, hat or cushion cover. I like the fact that the photographed swatches are real in size. An added extra are some simple patterns for a beginner who is new to fair isle to follow. The book also contains helpful hints for a knitter including different cast ons, how to steek and blocking and finishing techniques. I would highly recommend this book to add to your library. -- Monica Russel – Knitting DesignerTable of ContentsPrelims 5pp Introduction 2pp Chapter One: How To Use This Book 2pp Chapter Two: The Basics 14pp Chapter Three: Use of Colour, Use of Motifs 8pp Chapter Four: Swatch Directory 116pp Chapter Five: Projects 10pp Index and Credits 3pp

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Book SynopsisThis magical collection of seasonal projects is bursting with pretty decorations and unique gift ideas from Tilda craft designer and bestselling author Tone Finnanger.Choose from a selection of Tilda sewing and papercraft projects with festive designs to suit everyone. Clear instructions and full-size templates make each project quick and easy to achieve in time for Christmas!Tilda dolls Learn how to make toys with helpful instructions to guide you through tracing, cutting, stuffing and sewing. Create charming Tilda angels, pixies and santas for friends and family or to decorate your home. Then give your characters their own personality with facial details and co-ordinating clothing and accessories.Christmas decorations Use gorgeous Tilda fabrics or select your own pretty Christmas designs to make cute glass displays with tiny snowmen characters, decorative baubles for your tree and ice skate stockings to stuff with presents.Handmade gifts Pretty gift boxes and candy cones are perfect to fill with sweets and other tempting treats for kids of all ages. Create simple handmade cards, paper hearts and gift tags to accompany your presents and decorate them with ribbons and brads for an extra special touch.Table of ContentsThe Tilda brand is strong worldwide, with fans always seeking the next offering Features the latest Tilda fabrics and designs making this a must-have for the legions of Tilda fans

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Book SynopsisA new edition of Keri Smith''s bestseller, with updated materialThink of Wreck This Journal as the anarchist''s Artist''s Way -- the book for those who''ve always wanted to draw outside the lines but were afraid to do it.For anyone who''s ever wished to, but had trouble starting, keeping, or finishing a journal or sketchbook comes Wreck This Journal, an illustrated book featuring a subversive collection of suggestions, asking readers to muster up their best mistake - and mess-making abilities to fill the pages of the book (and destroy them).Through a series of creatively and quirkily illustrated prompts, acclaimed artist Keri Smith encourages journalers to engage in destructive acts - poking holes through pages, adding photos and defacing them, painting with coffee, colouring outside the lines, and more - in order to experience the true creative process. With Keri Smith''s unique sensibility, readers are introduced to a new way of art and journal making, discovering novel ways to escape the fear of the blank page and fully engage in the creative process.

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Book SynopsisThis handy, practical and inspirational little book is perfect for the pocket or art bag. It shows watercolour painters of all levels how to loosen up their paintings and maintain spontaneity by painting simple watercolour studies in no more than 10 minutes.Written by popular artist Hazel Soan, the book is arranged in three parts: the first section explains all about the equipment you will need; the second section covers techniques and shows what can be achieved with watercolour in a short time span; the third section looks at various subjects that are ideal for painting quickly.All the essential techniques are covered, focusing particularly on maximizing brushstrokes and exploring colours, and there is useful advice on deciding what to include and what to leave out. With helpful chapters on painting a wide range of subjects people, landscapes, seascapes, buildings, gardens, flowers and still life this little guide is ideal for quick reference when working in the studio or out in theTable of ContentsThink you have no time to paint? See what you can achieve in just 10 minutes! Inspirational advice to help you paint quick and spontaneous watercolours Essential tips on painting people, landscapes, seascapes, buildings, animals, flowers and still life

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Book SynopsisIt's dot-to-dot gone wild in this addition to the 1000 Dot-to-Dot series, as author Thomas Pavitte sets out to explore the animal kingdom. Enjoy bringing your favourite animals to life with The 1000 Dot-to-Dot Book: Animals, featuring popular pets such as cats and dogs, alongside the more exotic beasts of feathers, fur and scales - each rendered in 1000 dots, and resulting in beautifully detailed line drawings that you'll want to keep.

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Book SynopsisAward-winning artist Harriet de Winton shows you how to create contemporary watercolour artworks to treasure and share. Through more than 30 step-by-step projects, discover how to paint individual flowers and foliage, as well as beautiful botanical compositions. Use your new skills to make art for your wall, unique cards, invitations, or simply paint for pleasure.

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Book Synopsis'Immersive puzzle and mystery-solving fun that's guaranteed to keep them busy over the festive period' Woman & Home'If you're looking for a book that both entertains and challenges young minds, Murdle Junior is an excellent choice' Irish NewsFrom the internationally-bestselling Murdle series comes a new book of immersive puzzle- and mystery-solving fun for young detectives!Join four junior sleuths on their daring detective journeys deciphering codes, navigating maps and solving mazes to catch the dastardly culprits of fiendish crimes - and earn your own Murdle Junior badge. Race to the top echelons of a prestigious school to unravel The Case of the Missing Pencil, explore the secret passageways beneath The Mysterious Investigation Institute and crack the conundrum of The Deadly Silent Spy Organization that links them all. And more! With over forty mysteries featuring key suspects, locations, clues and more to enter into your trusty deduction grid, Murdle Junior: Curious Crimes for Cur

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Book SynopsisIs your '90s knowledge da bomb? Are your crossword skills all that and a bag of chips? The 411 is that these puzzles are filled with clues that blossom with rad '90s trivia and pop culture references, from the Spice Girls to Troll dolls to Clueless and beyond. Plus, the puzzles progress from easy to hard, which makes this book perfect for '90s kids of all skill levels and those looking to take a step-by-step approach to solving. If you get stuck, the answer section explains it all for you.

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Book SynopsisPark of a fantastic new series of stash-busting sewing books aimed at beginner to intermediate crafters, this book has 25 quick and easy projects to make, all from fat quarters or fabric scraps. Each project has easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and beautiful accompanying photography, as well as a comprehensive tools and techniques section. This book is ideal for using up leftover remnants of fabric to make great gifts. Give them to your family and friends, or keep them for yourself! Projects include: child's apron, earphone wallet, credit card holder, jewelry pouch, tissue holder, lined scarf and glasses holder.

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Book Synopsis• 1000-PIECE PUZZLE featuring Sherlock Holmes'' London in glorious detail• SPOT FAMOUS CHARACTERS, crime-solving clues, and historical figures as you build the puzzle. Hunt for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle''s most memorable characters, from the hound at Baskerville Hall to Moriarty, Dr. Watson, Mycroft and more, as well as real historical figures from the era.• INCLUDES A FOLD-OUT POSTER featuring fun Sherlock facts• STURDY & ATTRACTIVE BOX perfect for gifting and storageDon your deerstalker and immerse yourself in Sherlock Holmes'' London in this art jigsaw puzzle complete with bodies, boat chases, and, of course, 221B Baker Street. Perfect for avid puzzlers, families and bookworms

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Book SynopsisThe sixth book in the best-selling 'Kawaii' series teaches you how to draw almost 100 different woodland friends in an adorable manner. This kids' how-to art book lets the inquisitive child experience the woodland world through drawing, with clear step-by-step diagrams which are great for visual learners and make it super-easy to follow the instructions. Each spread - drawn in Angela's trademark playful style - offers an easy step-by-step guide to drawing adorable animals (birds, bears, and bugs), fairies, fungi, ferns and flowers, woodland folk, rock-dwelling creatures, and forest trees. Angela also shows how to draw cute woodland homes - complete with furniture, belongings, and even vehicles inspired by their forest surroundings - so kids can create a full world for their new woodland friends. You don't need any specialist tools or materials to start drawing cute stuff: all you need is a biro, marker pen or pencil, then you're ready to go!Table of ContentsAngela's World 6 Chapter One: Getting Started 8 Chapter Two: Woodland Folk 18 Chapter Three: Forest Creatures 48 Chapter Four: Plants and Fungi 90 Chapter Five: Woodland Takes Over 114 Credits 128

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Book SynopsisThis is an essential book for anyone learning to draw, or wishing to improve their drawing. Starting with the basics of drawing techniques, Civardi gives expert advice on drawing portraits, the clothed figure, hands and feet and scenery, finishing with a section on the importance of light and shade. Civardi's technical advice and practical tips, accompanied by his own outstanding drawings, make this an invaluable resource for any artist. Previously published as Giovanni Civardi's Complete Guide to Drawing (9781844482061) and now includes The Nude (9781844482443).Trade ReviewNov 09 Most of this first appeared as Giovanni Civardi's Complete Guide to Drawing, but this smaller format edition also includes the volume on The Nude. It's a sound introduction to drawing in pencil and the smaller page size makes it more manageable, but also means that you have to strain slightly to read the text, which has also been reduced. The style is best described as "classic", meaning that it's all well done, but perhaps slightly dated. If you don't mind that, and it's the technique that's more important to you, then this is a book it's hard to better. If your eyesight's not 100%, however, best buy a pair of stronger reading glasses as well. * Artbookreview.net * Dec 09 For those wishing to learn to draw or improve their skills this book is an essential read. Previously published material has been used along with new information in the compilation of this fabulous instructional volume. Packed full of beautiful illustrations, we begin with the very basics of drawing techniques, from description of use and simple mark making with pencil or graphite onto using carbon sticks and ink, each accompanied by many varied depictions where he tells us what media was used for each, and very importantly, what technique was used. All these details help the reader to understand the process of selecting media and technique to render the drawing they want to achieve. The section on portraits covers small details like hands, eyes and placement of features, all necessary to achieve a lifelike rendition through to full figures, both clothed and naked. The book is full of details such as anatomy of figures, and how to find the correct proportions to the fall of fabric on clothed figures, again in great detail and easy to follow. Scenery is covered in the same in depth way, from linear and aerial perspective, light and shade, tonal work and use of source material. All sections come with the same incredibly detailed illustration showing use of media and methods. If you want just one book to learn or improve your drawing skills, and draw well then this is the book for you. Its packed full of all the essentials you need to learn to create realistic 3d images in a 2d media. * JeannieZelos.com * Jan 2010 Drawing, A Complete Guide by Giovanni Civardi is a comprehensive exploration of hand drawing techniques and tools. While this book is focused on these techniques from a pure artistic point of view, the skills that are covered have real relevance and value for modern Graphic Designers. Technology changes everything and Graphic Design is no different. It doesn't seem so long ago that Graphic Design was a much more hands on discipline, with ideas mocked up on layout pads and then worked up through various refining stages, until the final design, along with a specification sheet overlay, was supplied for typesetting with the final artwork being produced through cut and pasting. Now it is possible for anyone with basic skills to produce understandable concepts using a PC and desktop printer, but there is real value for Graphic Designers to develop their drawing skills. Such skills can help Designers to quickly and clearly develop ideas wherever they are and can also allow them to produce hand drawn graphics for inclusion in finished designs. * Suite101.com * Mar 14 This a collection of smaller books which each delve into an element of drawing and cover the key parts using pictorial examples throughout. It is well laid out and can be easily accessed by both learners and tutors. As a concept art tutor I found the tutorials and information thorough and a great use of excellent examples. Having asked learners the response was positive and a definite request to access more. The anatomy sections covering the musculature of hands, feet and head were especially informative and helpful. I will be asking my subject librarian to purchase. * Marian Carr, Bradford College *Table of ContentsPreviously published as Giovanni Civardi's Complete Guide to Drawing 9781844482061 and now includes "The Nude" 9781844482443

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Book SynopsisThis Harry Potter origami book comes with fifteen foldable crafts!Ever wanted to fold your own Howler? Or play a desktop game of Quidditch?Experience the Wizarding World like never before with this deluxe, 112-page origami guidebook! Packed with step-by-step instructions, fans can learn to fold fifteen unique origami pieces, including objects, creatures, and settings straight from the films of Harry Potter!Harry Potter Origami includes:- Special sheets of illustrated origami paper custom designed for each craft- Step-by-step instructions with illustrations- Photography of the real, finished origami for helpful reference- Advice for keeping your origami looking magicalDon''t miss this enchanting guide to paper folding--the perfect gift for every Harry Potter fan!

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Book SynopsisLeonie Morgan is back with another wonderful book, showcasing her vibrant colour and stitch combinations. Featuring both block patterns and stitch patterns, there is plenty to please granny-square lovers and row-by-row enthusiasts. Each of the 40 designs comes with a clear written pattern, an easy-to-follow chart, a skill-level indicator and a large photograph. Instructions and yardage are also provided for making afghans in three sizes: baby blankets, lap throws and bedspreads.With advice on picking lovely colour combinations and a selection of edgings to finish their project, and a comprehensive collection of crochet stitches and techniques, readers will have all they need to create their own unique afghan.Trade ReviewFeaturing stitch patterns and blocks, this book contains ideas to thrill any crochet lover. 40 afghan designs have clear instructions, both written and as charts with skill level guidance and good photos. 12 edgings mean you can mix and match. The colourful designs are given in three sizes with the amounts of yarn needed. A technique section brushes up your crochet skills and there's advice on colour combinations too. A superb crochet book for all crocheters and newcomers to the world of crochet will find a reason, or 40 or so to begin with. Enough inspiration to get you hooked. * yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Beautiful blankets, especially handmade, crochet ones should be available on the NHS as I think they make everyone feel better! With blanket projects on my mind, I have had my eye on this book for some time. I own a couple of Leonie’s other books, namely 100 colourful ripple stitches and 75 colourful Hexagons to crochet. Therefore I know she writes clear, concise instructions with good pattern notes. The reason I wanted this book may surprise you. It wasn’t for the blankets or the throws. I couldn’t wait for this book to be published, because of the stunningly original edging patterns! They are unique, truly inspiring and just what I have been searching for. Last year I completed a very pretty ‘corner-to-corner’ blanket that desperately needed an unusual but simple edging. It has been languishing in my ‘work in progress’ pile for the last few months Nothing had caught my eye, until this book came out. I am spending my coffee breaks today pondering colours and yarn. There are 40 block and stitch patterns in this book. If you think about it, that works out at a bargain 28p per pattern (I consulted my calculator) Of course I love all of these too; the patterns are bright and cheerful, perfect for your future summer projects. The patterns are suitable for beginners and more experienced hookers too. At the back of the book there is a very handy, quick reference and measurements guide. It gives the number or blocks of rows and also the yarn quantities and colours. There is of course the usual stitch guide and illustrations for beginners. My favourite blanket pattern is this one… I am rather enamoured with the Neon frills blanket on page 28. The frills use surface crochet, which is something I have been using and enjoying recently. It makes a flat project become alive with texture… I can highly recommend this book to you all! https://www.lazydaisyjones.com/2017/03/beautiful-blankets-afghans-book-giveaway.html * Lazy Daisy Jones *This is my second book by Leonie Morgan, and I am not disappointed! From the cover and throughout, this book is a riot of colour with beautifully detailed photographs and illustrations. There is so much to make from this book too - it really does have everything you could wish for - including decorative stitches, blocks, granny squares and stripes! At the back of the book is a size guide, taking the guesswork out of resizing each project to suit your requirements! Another plus point for this book is a whole section on edgings, so you can give your afghan blanket a unique edging - rather than following a set pattern. As for the patterns themselves, each pattern is written clearly with the addition of a chart for those who prefer to read their patterns this way. Additionally, each pattern is graded in difficulty, and there is a large section on techniques and stitches, making it extremely suitable for complete beginners through to those with more experience. I love this book, which is extremely well written and allows you to get in touch with your creative side at the same time. Well done Leonie - another excellent crochet book for my collection -- Cathy Sommer * Customer Review *I was really looking forward to getting my copy of this book and now that it is here I am not disappointed. For someone who is only just learning to get past the basics in crochet this book is a joy with 40 different patterns to help the reader to put together beautiful crocheted blankets. I've gone through the book several times since it arrived and I can't find a single pattern that I don't want to try. The instructions are clear, the photo illustrations are bright and there are instructions included on various techniques to help you to master each pattern. Every crocheter, no matter how advanced they are, should have a copy of this book to hand. Thank you Leonie Morgan! -- Allison Isom * Customer Review *A compilation of forty patterns for both beginners and experts. The patterns are a mixture of granny squares and row by row designs. The illustrations are clear and vibrant tempting the reader to pursue the clear and well written instructions with easy to follow charts. I was particularly pleased with the diverse choice of patterns- ranging from 'pastel rows', which involves no turning and is great for stash busting to the rather more involved 'raisin baby blanket' which uses the traditional 3D Irish Rose , varying colour with each block. THe book is informative giving yarn quantities necessary for each pattern, suggestions for edging and joining, blocking and special stitch instructions. I rather liked the fact that the contents page had a motif alongside each afghan featured in the book -- Christine Shepherd * Customer Review *Love this book. Lots of new patterns to crochet. Cannot decided which to start with as all so good -- Kathy Downing * Customer Review *A modern crochet book I actually got on quite well with , it does written instructions and charts plus a gorgeous photo and after a play with a few wool scraps , not the right weight or type , I managed to make a flower square that sort of resembled what they thought it should look like, lots of different ideas and ive been crocheting for years so that was a pleasant surprise -- Kaye Chamberlin * Customer Review *This book has a clear concise layout. English terms are used rather than American. It is suitable for all level of crafters, from beginners to experienced crafters. The book has a good variety of designs and includes cot size to bed throw in each pattern. The book also provides a range of edgings and borders to finish your project. A very enjoyable craft book. -- Elaine Speak * Customer Review *I absolutely love this book, it has clear instructions and lots of lovely Blankets for me to make.It also has charts which I find very helpful. It is definitely going to help me use up my huge Yarn stash. -- Jacqueline Jackson * Customer Review *

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisThis 15th anniversary edition of the best-selling book 100 Flowers to Knit and Crochet, with over 130,000 copies sold! An utterly delightful collection of designs for any knitting or crochet enthusiast, it not only includes the most beautiful flowers and leaves, but also a wonderful, whimsical collection of fruit and vegetables as well as butterflies. As most of the projects use only small amounts of yarn, it is the perfect way to use up scraps, or practise using novelty yarns. You can use them to decorate clothing, hats, bags and belts, embellish home accessories, or make a beautiful bouquet as an unusual display piece. There are so many flowers to choose from that there is sure to be something you will love, from simple spiral roses and two-tone fuchsias, to elaborate layered blooms and fabulous felted flowers. The flowers are beautifully arranged on the pages, with stitched leaves and embroidered stems, and are cross-referenced to a separate section featuring clear pattern instructions and information on yarn requirements. You will also find plenty of inspiration for embellishing your finished flowers with beads, buttons, sequins and embroidery. In addition, there are lots of ideas for using them in a range of fun ways, from unusual jewellery to decorating gift-wrapped packages. The patterns use UK crochet terms, with a US/UK conversion chart printed on the fold-out flap. Previously published as 9781844484034.Trade ReviewNature wins, especially in needlework popularity contests. In this fifteenth-anniversary edition, veteran needleworker Stanfield (The Knitter's Stitch Collection, 2021) recaps her take on translating flowers, fruits, and vegetables into yarn. Written in UK terminology (of note to crocheters), this collection first showcases finished items, then follows with technical instructions. Those directions include yarn specifications and methods, and, for crochet, instructions for how to make up (i.e. put together) and symbols, with further differentiation into beginning, intermediate, and advanced projects. Many of the pieces will be familiar (e.g. ladybug and acorn); others, less so (like Santolina and rudbeckia). A color portfolio of ten projects, without instructions, acts as a creative guide to using flowers and fruits for added design flourishes, on an evening handbag or winter scarf, for two examples. A standard for libraries that don’t already own this classic reference. -- Barbara Jacobs * Booklist *This is a really useful book for knitters and crocheters alike who would like to embellish their knitting or crocheting or have small projects to make. The pictures inspire one to try something new. The patterns are very clear and I like the fact that yarn weights are given rather than affiliating projects to a particular brand. The fold out flap with abbreviations is brilliant as a less experienced knitter or crocheter will not have to flip backwards and forwards to find out new terminology. This would be a great book to keep in your collection. -- Monica Russel * Monica Russel *Table of ContentsForeword/About this book 6 Before you begin 8 Materials and equipment 10, Crochet symbols 12, Abbreviations 14, Terminology and aftercare 15, Notes on knitting 16, Notes on crochet 18 Directory of flowers 20 Flowers 22, Leaves 42, Fruit and vegetables 44 Technical instructions 46 Knitting instructions, Basic designs 48, Intermediate designs 54, Advanced designs 62 Crochet instructions Basic designs 66, Intermediate designs 74, Advanced designs 92 Projects 108 Project 1 : Peg bag 110, Project 2: Evening handbag 112, Project 3: Stationery 114, Project 4: Christmas gift wrap 115, Project 5: Baby's cardigan 116, Project 6: Winter scarf 118, Project 7: Summer shoes 119, Project 8: Ruffles 120, Project 9: Place settings 122, Project 10: Shopping bag 124 Index 126 Resources and credits 128

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Book SynopsisIn The 1000 Dot-to-Dot Book: Cityscapes, Thomas Pavitte takes his incredible 1000 Dot-to-Dot series to the urban jungle.Tackle the iconic skylines and landmarks of Paris, New York, London, Venice and many more besides, and experience the cities of the world in a whole new way as each one comes to life beneath your pen.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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