Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

Book SynopsisExplore the rich cultural heritage of Japanese embroidery with this beautifully crafted book, which offers a stunning collection of 200 patterns, capturing the timeless elegance and intricate artistry of Japanese design.Enjoy a wide array of patterns inspired by the graceful beauty of kimonos, the delicate charm of floral arrangements, and the profound simplicity of traditional Japanese design. Each pattern is meticulously charted with clear colour guides, ensuring that both beginners and experienced stitchers can create the patterns with ease.Embrace the mindfulness and calming nature of repetitive stitching. The soothing process of cross stitching allows you to immerse yourself in a meditative practice, enhancing your well-being while creating beautiful art. Many of the patterns in this book are designed as repeat patterns, enabling you to extend them to cover any size of fabric, offering flexibility and creativity in your projects.With simple techniques and detailed instructions, this book makes the art of cross stitching accessible to everyone. Whether you''re looking to adorn your home with unique decor or create heartfelt handmade gifts, this essential directory of authentic Japanese cross stitch patterns provides endless inspiration.

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Book SynopsisA guide to the historical and technical side of salt glazing with work from leading international salt glazing artists. Salt-glazing has a long history, from its early use in German storage jars, then in Victorian industrial sewage pipes to its current position as one of the most exciting areas of studio ceramics. In this book, Phil Rogers teaches you all aspects of this very special glazing technique. Starting with a brief overview of the history of salt glazing, he then discusses the technical considerations that set this form of glazing apart from all others. Given particular consideration are kilns, which are such an important factor in this technique. Finally, discover the work of the world's leading artists using this particular medium. Salt glazing, with its distinctive 'orange peel' surface, has long attracted both makers and collectors. Beautifully illustrated throughout, this book is a must on the reference shelves of all ceramicists and collectors or studio ceramics, but it should particularly appeal to all those who enjoy the wonderful surface textures that this medium provides.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements 1. Introduction 2. Clay Bodies Suitable for Salt Glazing 3. Slips and Glazes for the Salt Kiln 4. Decoration 5. The Salt Kiln 6. Stacking a Salt Kiln 7. Firing a Salt Kiln 8. Environmental Concerns over Salt Firing 9. Profiles Appendix Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisHappiness sells! inspired to succeed at just one thing, the author vowed to sew all of her daughter's clothes (and most of her own) for one year. This is the story of that year and how doing one thing right inspired her to cultivate many happy habits. Faced with chronic illness and unemployment, Sanae lshida decided to take stock of her life and rediscover her passion for sewing. This is a seasonal book consists of 20 simple sewing projects plus variations (including Japanese-inspired home goods, children's and women's clothing), stitched together with charming and relatable personal stories about how sewing brought her profound happiness. Part 1 includes the incredibly moving essays as well as a look-book of photos of the projects, and Part 2 includes all the instructions with detailed illustrations. The book is 30% memoir and 70% practical sewing projects.Trade Review2016 Homemaker Magazine Best Home Sewing Book Award Winner “In a world of Pinterest-perfect styling and overposed, overedited sewing blog photos, Ishida’s honesty is refreshing, and her thoughtful musings on the importance of “taking a break”—whether to sew, enjoy family, or simply appreciate our lives—are a delight.”—Library Journal“[Ishida] stitches together a memoir, a delightful medley of sewing projects and a strong lesson in wabi-sabi, the concept of finding beauty in imperfection.”—Seattle Magazine“Part sewing-pattern collection, part one woman’s personal tale of her self-help journey, this book aims to be as inspirational as it is useful.”—Booklist"You might be sewing a pattern, but confidence will also emerge on the other side of the presser foot, and that, Sanae assures, will bring you sewing happiness." —Seattle's Child“This book is beautiful. It’s beautifully written, beautifully styled and photographed, and beautiful to hold in your hands. It’s the kind of book that you would be thrilled to receive as a gift, and even more excited to give away to someone you love.”—Closet Case Files“A lovely book, and very relatable if you’ve ever struggled with your health or with finding meaning and joy in your life.” —Sew Mama Sew“This book is more than a collection of projects…[it] is an open, honest, raw and vulnerable conversation about how making things can heal us.” —A Happy Stitch"Sewing Happiness actually digs down deep into the idea that crafting is a meditative, health-boosting practice that really has the power to transform how you feel...bring on the sewing machine!"—Dream Green DIY"[Sewing Happiness] is part memoir, part sewing book, and filled throughout with beautiful photography and illustrations. It is a joy to read."—Cut Cut Sew"Sewing Happiness is a beautiful and touching book about the healing power of making. Part memoir, part craft book, and all gorgeous, you won't be able to put it down."—Small+Friendly"This book, unlike most other craft/sewing books, had me reading each and every page, each and every project introduction. It's moving, inspiring and, of course, instructional as well."—Buzzmills "No book has described the healing and life-affirming practice of sewing more beautifully than Sanae Ishida’s Sewing Happiness."—Sew News"Shows readers the power of a little creativity in their lives."—Mother Earth News

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Book SynopsisPractical yet pretty, a mug rug is one of the latest home trends. Mug rugs are extra-large drink coasters, or smaller versions of place mats, that are the perfect size to hold your favourite beverage with room for a treat. They make the perfect gift when you wrap them with a cute mug and a packet of cocoa! You will find 12 charming little mats with farmhouse colours and themes to stitch. Designs include sheep, rooster, pig, bee, kitty, rustic truck and more. All are made using Scheepjes® Softfun DK-weight yarn.Trade ReviewMug rugs are extra-large drink coasters to hold a mug and a treat and they make the perfect gift. There are 12 little mats to crochet, all with farmhouse colours and themes. * Machine Knitting Monthly *

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Book SynopsisThis adorable book is all about the birds! From budgies to owls to peacocks, these projects will pique your curiousity and make your heart sing! Many talented designers bring you soft sculptures, quilts, ornaments, and more. Trade ReviewSept 10 Unlike most collections, which concentrate on a particular craft, this collection, the first in Stash's new "Design Collective" series, focuses on a theme: birds. The styles vary from folk-art embroidery, to realistic stuffed toys, to colorful quilts and wall hangings. Most of the projects are small, sweet, and suitable for beginners. They aren't children's toys as much as trinkets you might display on a mantel or with a whimsical collection of objets d'art. Each project includes a brief designer bio and contact information, including a website. * Library Journal, USA *July 10 This book features 26 projects involving birds from soft toy birds to embroidery involving birds in the design there is something for everyone. The book incorporates techniques such as quilting and embroidery but the projects are suitable for beginners. Some of the birds are decorative and others, like the Bird on Branch Make Up bag or little birds quilt, are functional. Each project has the instructions broken down into a few different steps, from getting the necessary equipment together before you start to cutting the fabric and constructing the bird itself. What I love is that at the start of each project there is a little biography of the contributor along with links to their website/blog/shop so that you can find out more about them, or buy one of the birds if you don't want to make it yourself. At the back of the book you will find pattern pieces and a guide to the embroidery stitches used. * Sewing Directory, The *

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Book SynopsisYou love to sew. How many of you wish you could make a living from sewing? Help to live the dream with this practical guide from professional sewist and pattern designer Virginia Lindsay. Everything you need to know is here, from finding your personal sewing style to creating a product line, identifying customers, equipping a sewing studio, pricing and selling your work, marketing, designing patterns, and handling the business and legal side of sewing. And that’s not all! The book also includes 16 projects to start sewing and selling right now. Bonus—16 Starter Projects. • How to sell locally and online • Hands-on guide for starting and running a successful home sewing business is a win for you too—you sell the fabric and supplies • Informative interviews with four women who already run profitable sewing businesses • Includes 16 projects to sew and sell—perfect to pitch as classes to make aprons, tote and messenger bags, tablet covers, baby quilts, and more • Plus pattern pulloutTrade ReviewDecember 2014 Want ideas and inspiration to make money from sewing at home? This book shows you how to start and run a successful sewing business from home. There are interviews with four women who run craft businesses, tips for beginners and how to create marketing and promotional material. You’ll find basic information for setting up a business, what you need in the way of equipment and materials and ideas on where an how to sell, template pattern pieces. Patterns are included copyright free. The stylish, contemporary patterns are easy to follow and have a suggested price point. Please note this is an American book. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *Table of ContentsIntroduction Finding Your Sewing Style Authenticity Using Sewing Patterns to Get Started Interview: Jessica Rider from A little Grey Identifying Your Customers Be Selective Sewing for Kids and Babies Sewing Fashion Accessories Sewing for the Home Sewing for Fundraising Essential Equipment Your Sewing Machine Machine Accessories Thread Cutting Tools Additional Tools Serger Computer Camera Interview: Vanessa Hewell from LBG Studio Buying and Using Fabric Have a Plan Use What You Have Building a Stash Making Smart Fabric Buying Choices Quality Counts Coordinating Fabrics Try Something different Interview: Monica Donohue from Little Pigeon Crafts Sewing Change Your Favorite Patterns to Work Even Better For You Keep Good Notes Organize Your Pattern Pieces Organize Your Workspace Selling Selecting a Name Selling Online: Setting Up an Online Shop Taking Good Photos for Online Sales Selling at Craft Shows: Setting Up Your Booth Making a Plan Consignment Sales Promoting Yourself: Business Cards / Postcards Using Social Media Keeping a Mailing List Pricing and Packaging Pricing: Materials Time Price Show Pricing Packaging: Packaging for Show Sales Packaging for Online Sales Interview: Candace Todd from Sparkle Power PROJECTS Projects That Are Useful Boxy Pincushion Craft Apron Lunch Bag Oven Mitt Placemat and Napkin Projects That Make Best Use of Materials Drawstring Backpack Grocery Tote iPad Sleeve Trimmed Messenger Bag Half-square Triangle Quilt Projects That Are Great Sellers Baby Set Handy Organizer Great Big Tote Professional Pillows Slouchy Purse Zippered Pouch Appendix: Business Basics You're In Charge Keeping Your Look Fresh Inventory The Legal Aspects of Setting Up a Shop: Doing Business As (DBA) Get a Tax ID Set Up Bank Accounts How to Pay Sales Tax Income Tax Making it Work For You Resources About the Author

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Book SynopsisWith this compact portable reference in hand, crafters can quickly and easily look up any of 100 different sheep breeds, the characteristics of their fleece, and the kinds of projects for which their fleece is best suited. Each breed profile includes a photograph of the animal and information about its origin and conservation status, as well as the weight, staple length, fiber diameter, and natural colors of its fleece. This is a great primer for beginners, and a handy guide for anyone who loves working with fleece.

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Book SynopsisWith this high-quality sketchbook, experienced and aspiring manga artists can take what they've learned about drawing manga and create their own manga graphic novels. The opening pages of this sketchbook include information on filling the panels, creating drama with angles, using speech balloons, and creating special effects. After that, the book is divided into six sections, each with a cover template and blank, black-framed panels that allow artists to create different manga stories from start to finish. The possibilities are endless!

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Book SynopsisLevel up your Game Master skills with these fun, interactive prompts and activities to help your worldbuilding from RPG expert James D’Amato.Make your next campaign truly unique with the help of this interactive guide to world building! From RPG expert James D’Amato comes a fun new guide that teaches beginner and experienced gamers alike how to build and create their own game elements for customizing existing adventures or creating new stories from scratch. The Ultimate RPG Game Master’s Worldbuilding Guide includes dozens of activities for a wide range of genres from fantasy and sci-fi to horror and x-punk. This lively and interactive book helps Game Masters create dynamic destinations, powerful items, shadowy organizations, compelling villains, and more. Make the most of your gaming experience with these unique and personalized ideas for your gaming group’s next adventures!Trade Review“A purchase worth many times over.” —Game Industry News

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Book SynopsisWeekend Makes: Crocheted Bags is a stylish collection of 25 simple projects for every occasion. Crochet your way from clutch to tote, making a variety of beautiful bags in between, with the latest title in the Weekend Makes series. Crochet has been brought bags up-to-date and now fills Instagram and Pinterest – not to mention catwalks and high-end fashion houses – with modern masterpieces. Grab your crochet hook and yarn and join the trend by creating a carrier for every outing. Whether you're a newcomer to this craft or have been hooked for a while, you'll find a project to kickstart your creativity and learn the skills required to make it. With detailed techniques, tools and materials sections, this book provides everything you need to know to get started. Each project guides you step by step with easy-to-follow instructions and close-up photos of each stage. Whether you need to carry keys, groceries or a picnic, or add the finishing touch to an outfit, there are 25 easy projects to make, from essential everyday bags, such as the tote, shopper and backpack, to more exciting, elaborate shapes, such as the Japanese knot, circle raffia and drawstring bag. As well as learning the basic stitches and how to shape these styles, you'll expand your knowledge to create different patterns and textures, including leopard print, geometric and honeycomb designs, and work with different colours and types of yarn. Projects include: leopard-print clutch, circle raffia bag, honeycomb messenger bag, ombre shopping bag, Japanese knot bag, beach bag, eco shopper bag, tweed shoulder bag, textured tote bag, crossbody drawstring bag. AUTHOR: Guild of Master Craftsman (GMC) Publications publishes books which are valued by professional craftsmen and women and enjoyed by keen amateurs alike. Our diverse range of titles covers woodworking, DIY, gardening and all manner of craft subjects, from knitting and sewing to jewellery-making, doll's house, upholstery, paper crafts and more. Our authors are experts in their fields and we take care to produce books that are hardworking and practical, as well as beautiful to look at. From guides and how-to books for beginners to technique-packed, project-based titles, we have something for everyone - no matter what your skill or hobby. SELLING POINTS: . Clear, illustrated step-by-step instructions and detailed notes and tips . 25 easy crocheted bag projects . Beginner-friendly through to more advanced patterns . Projects include: eco shopper bag, leopard-print clutch, picnic bag, backpack, slouchy shoulder bag, crossbody drawstring bag, ombre shopping bag, textured tote. . A trending, Instagram-driven craft (31.9 million posts currently using #crochet) 60 photographs, 50 illustrations

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Book SynopsisHelps learn how to sculpt realistic 6"-8" figures using simple techniques. This work covers the essentials, the fundamentals of figurative modelling and how to make the tools that ensure success. It shows readers how to recreate faces and expressions, torsos, legs, and hands and feet.

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Book SynopsisThis exciting book shows you how to fold realistic models of your favorite pets, zoo animals and other wildlife!Master origami designer Muneji Fuchimoto's clear instructions show you how to fold 30 amazing animal and insect models, including the following: Five different popular dog breeds—complete with stylish foldable outfits A cute little paper cat Less conventional pet models, including a miniature pig, mouse and turtle Safari wildlife, including an elephant with tusks, a lion with a mane and a chimpanzee with a contrasting posterior A brown bear with a freshly-caught salmon in its mouth—folded from a single sheet of paper! And so much more! These models are intermediate-level origami projects, and require some prior folding knowledge for the best experience.

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Book SynopsisWoodlander is a complete and comprehensive guide to managing a small woodland, incorporating nearly 30 years of knowledge and experience from woodsman Ben Law and his unique home in Prickly Nut Wood. Woodlander contains everything you need to know if you are managing, or intend to manage, a small woodland. Ben's inspiring, forest-dwelling life has allowed him to put together a complete package of detailed information and practical examples based on his personal experience, giving this beautiful book an entirely authentic voice. Every page is infused with a deep respect for the traditions of the past while also embracing new ideas, methods and creative thinking. This is a holistic approach to woodland management, which looks at the entire place - the wildlife it supports, the natural cycles of growth and life, the precious products it creates and the communities that inhabit and surround it. All the while, understanding and emphasising that it is a balance of all these things that makes a healthy, biodiverse, resilient ecosystem. Detailed sections cover different types of woodland, the rich history behind them, how to assess what you've got, practical maintenance, planning for the future, promoting wildlife and biodiversity, harvesting and extracting timber, the tools you will need, crafts, social forestry and an in-depth resources section. Dotted throughout are personal snippets, observations and insights from Ben's life at Prickly Nut Wood. AUTHOR: Ben Law, woodsman, craftsman, eco-builder, teacher and writer, lives and works in Prickly Nut Wood in West Sussex, UK. The building of his unique woodland home was featured on Grand Designs in the UK and was voted by viewers as the most popular episode ever. Ben runs courses on sustainable woodland management and permaculture, runs a specialist eco-building company and trains apprentices. Ben Law is the author of several books, including The Woodland House (Permanent Publications, 2005). The Woodland Year (Permanent Publications, 2008), and Woodsman: Living in a Wood in the 21st Century and Woodland Craft (GMC Publications, 2015). www.ben-law.co.uk. 300 photographs, 100 illustrations

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Book SynopsisNotebook Doodles is the first contemporary coloring book series aimed directly at tweens! The adult coloring book market is super hot and YA buyers want their own product to get in on the fun. Notebook Doodles offer a fun, fresh, and exciting new coloring book series for tween girls ages 812. There is no other series on the market like Notebook Doodles. This is not just another coloring bookits empowering art statements are designed for the design-savvy tween consumer who thinks Kids books are too juvenile and mom's adult coloring books are too, welladult! Jess Volinski, the innovative author, is a well established and highly popular designer who knows her market and has an original, authentic style. Inside each title, readers will find 30 interactive coloring pages on fun themes, with original, authentic, and on-trend art that resonates with tweens. Young coloring enthusiasts will also find an art lesson in the front, eight pages of fully colored examples, inspiring quotes to go with every design, perforated pages, and high quality artist paper. It's coloring perfectedfor TWEENS!

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Book SynopsisWho knew just two fat quarters can be used in so many ways? Turn your left-over fabrics or stash of odd fat quarters into 16 beautiful bags! The projects inside range from accessory essentials like an evening clutch and cross-body handbag, to invaluable carriers such as a foldable shopper and lunch tote that will see you through your daily tasks. Start off with an easy-to-follow crash-course on the essential sewing techniques you'll need – from adding a zip to creating patch/slip pockets. Then, jump straight into the projects and get stitching! Each project includes inspiring photography, instructive hand-drawn illustrations and heaps of handy hints and tips from your favourite bag-sewing expert, Debbie von Grabler-Crozier. Ideal for sewists of all abilities, this is the ultimate, affordable, fat quarter-friendly project book that will get you making practical items straight away.Trade ReviewMany of us have a wide selection of fat quarters in our stash Take Two Fat Quarters: Bags & Purses is ideal for helping you put them to use. Although using just two fat quarters does limit the size of the projects Debbie did still manage to fit in a shopping bag, large storage bag and a cross body bag among the projects list. Other projects include a Japanese knot bag, clutch purse, make up case, bag organizer and handy fabric storage bucket among others – 16 projects in total. Take Two Fat Quarters: Bags & Purses starts with some essential bag making tips, with step-by-step colour photos to guide you, plus some tips on choosing your materials and equipment too. Then it’s onto the projects, each of which is preceded with a beautiful photo of the project you will be making. This book does have great photography. The projects walk you through each stage from gathering supplies, to cutting fabrics and assembling your bag, with handy tips scattered throughout the book too. Photos and colour diagrams are provided where needed to help assist you in following the written instructions. Best of all there is a full-size pattern sheet at the back of the book, no fiddling around with trying to resize templates! -- Fiona Pullen * The Sewing Directory *Turn your leftover fabric or stash of odd fat quarters into 16 beautiful bags with Debbie von Grabler-Crozier’s guide, Take Two Fat Quarters: Bags & Purses. From accessory essentials, like an evening clutch and cross-body handbag, to invaluable carriers such as a foldable shopper and lunch tote, this book is perfect for sewists of all abilities and includes all the essential sewing techniques, tips, and tricks you need! * Crafts Beautiful *Turn left-over fabrics into 16 beautiful bags, with projects ranging from an evening clutch to a lunch tote. There are photos, hand-drawn illustrations and heaps of hints and tips. For all abilities, this friendly book will get you making items straight away. * Machine Knitting Monthly *If you've got a penchant for bags and purses, then this handy title is for you. As well as a crash course on all the techniques you need to get started, sewist Debbie von Grabler-Crozier explores how to use two fat quarters to make a total of 16 beautiful carryall. From an evening clutch and a cross body handbag to a practical foldable shopper and lunch tote, there really is a bag for every occasion! * Sew Magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 What is a fat quarter? 7 Materials 8 Usual sewing needs 10 Techniques Finishing seams and lining 14, Clipping and notching 15, Boxing bag corners 16, Using glue in bag making 17, Zips 18, Patch/slip pockets 22, Adding binding 23 The Projects Storage Bag 26, Fabric Bucket 30, Foldaway Shopper 34, Japanese Knot Bag 40, Zipped Pouch 44, Clutch Purse 48, Bag Organizer 52, Tablet Case 56, Tool Trug 60, Make-up Case 64, Wine Bottle Tote 70, Paperbag-style Lunch Bag 74, Pencil Case 78, Tiny Tote 82, Cross-body Bag 86, Minimalist's Phone Bag 92 Index 96

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Book SynopsisSew 17 paper-pieced baby animal blocks with Mary Hertel! Mix-and-match blocks into six projects for a sweet nursery set, featuring a cozy quilt, baby bib, adjustable diaper bag, and more.

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Book SynopsisExpand your colour confidence with a comprehensive dictionary of colour combinations! Colour combinations are made simple with this helpful reference that includes endless amounts of colour palettes for artists to perfect their colour selection every time.Trade ReviewHaruyoshi Nagumo is professor emeritus at Digital Hollywood University and director of a leading colour research laboratory. In his new book, Swatch This, he shares his research on design theory and studies, which led him to develop a new colour system based on colour image charts. The book provides a dictionary of colour combinations and includes endless amounts of colour palettes for artists to help them make the perfect choice every time. * Leisure Painter *

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Book SynopsisThe hugely accomplished textile artist Jean Draper gives an invaluable guide to designing and working with pattern in textile art. Jean goes back to basics with simple dots and lines, demonstrating how even basic squares, circles and triangles can have a stunning impact in stitch and textiles. She provides practical and simple instructions for developing and experimenting with pattern, using grids, symmetry, rotation and repeats. Jean draws inspiration from patterns around the world, from West African Kente Cloth to the Gee’s Bend quilts of Alabama. There are instructions on creating bands and borders, strip patchwork and strip piecing, plus an extended study of Banjara stitched textiles. Natural patterns from plants and flowers also offer exciting opportunities for stitch, and Jean explores important design emblems such a the Tree of Life alongside other stitched flower forms. Finally, the ornamentation of the body provides many unique and striking ways to interpret the human form in stitch. Pattern is everywhere and can be used to stunning effect, taking your textile art to the next level. This fascinating and exciting guide brings together inspiration, design methods and stitching techniques to help you develop truly great textile art.Trade Review‘An enlightening read for crafters and non-crafters alike.' -- Sew * Book Review *‘A fantastic resource for people who love to get on with making, especially those with an interest in creating rich surfaces and taking their work into three-dimensions using textiles and mixed media.' -- Embroidery * Book Review *

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Book SynopsisWith the amazing biodiversity on our planet, isn't it time we started celebrating and crocheting some of life's more unusual creatures? In this surprising collection, crochet designer Irene Strange opens our eyes to the wonders of nature with amigurumi patterns for odd and unexpected animals that you won't find in other books.

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Book SynopsisThe DIY paper toy phenomenon continues to grow, with artists and designers from around the world bring ever more innovative and exciting ideas to life with nothing more than simple paper. Super Cute Paper Toys not only brings together a superb selection of work from these talented designer, but also features 38 toy templates printed on high quality, 200 gsm couche paper for you create at home.

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Book SynopsisRegan and Kelley of Cowbutt Crunchies show you how to make boot covers, tights, and shoes for cosplay. Whether you’re a new or experienced sewist, this handbook will help you turn your cosplay dreams into reality. Build your skills with this step-by-step guide to creating cosplay footwear at home and sew the exact attention-grabbing boot covers, shoes, and leggings you need for any costume.

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Book SynopsisTHE SEQUEL TO THE MULTI-MILLION BESTSELLER DRAWING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BRAIN From the author of the world's most popular drawing instruction manual Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, this new book helps you discover a new way of drawing and problem solving. Betty Edwards reveals the role our dominant eye plays in how we perceive, create, and are seen by those around us. Research shows that much like being right-handed or left-handed, each of us has a dominant eye, corresponding to the dominant side of our brain - either verbal or perceptual. Once you learn the difference and try your hand at the simple drawing exercises, you'll gain fresh insights into how you perceive, think, and create. You'll learn how to not just look but truly see. Generously illustrated throughout, Drawing on the Dominant Eye offers a remarkable guided tour through art history, psychology, and the creative process; a must-read for anyone looking for a richer understanding of our art, our minds, and ourselves. Praise for Betty Edwards' Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain: 'Hands down the best and most life-enhancing thing I've done in lockdown' India Knight 'A guide to enhancing creativity and artistic confidence' IndependentTrade ReviewPraise for Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain -- :Think you can't draw? You absolutely can . . . You will quickly amaze and delight yourself. Hands down the best and most life-enhancing thing I've done in lockdown -- India Knight * Sunday Times *A guide to enhancing creativity and artistic confidence * Independent *A consciousness-expanding work * LA Times *A landmark in drawing tuition * Leisure Painter *

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Book SynopsisOptimistic coloring pages from bestselling author Jane Maday. Nurture your soul with 35+ hopeful coloring pages, along with front-of-the-book instruction on basic materials for different effects. Set your worries free with this wonderful activity to focus your mind on all the blessings in your life with these positive affirmations!

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Book SynopsisIf you're logofascinated, you are literally spellbound by language.; This surprising compendium of 1,000 facts about words, language and etymology is here to inspire your curiosity and delight in discovery. In Word Drops, you can delve into a smattering of unexpected connections and weird juxtapositions, stumble upon a new or remarkable word, or learn of many a bizarre etymological quirk or tall tale.; - Did you know that the bowl made by cupping your hands together is called a gowpen?; - And speaking of bowls, the earliest known reference to bowling in English dates from 1555, when bowling alleys were banned by an Act of Parliament.; - And that ties in nicely with the fact that the English called the Germans 'Alleymen' during the First World War.; - But in Navajo, Germany is called Beesh Bich'ahii Bikeyah-or 'metal cap-wearer land'.; Word Drops is a language fact book unlike any other, its linguistic tidbits all falling together into one long interconnected chain just like the example above with each fact neatly 'dropping' into place beside the next.; What's more, throughout, footnotes are used to give some informative and intriguing background to some of the most bizarre facts, covering everything from traditional Inuit games to the origin of the Bellini cocktail, from the precise length of one 'jiffy' to what the Romans thought hoopoe birds ate, and from what to expect on a night out with Dr Johnson to Samuel Pepys's cure for a hangover. Want to know the longest palindrome in Morse code, or who The Great Masticator was? Curious to know what Norwegian steam is, or what a jaaaar is? The answers are all here.; For all of the logofascinated among us, this is an immensely pleasurable and unpredictable collection that is guaranteed to raise eyebrows (the literal meaning, incidentally, of supercilious).Trade Review'Very jolly and all fascinating stuff. I'm sure it will solve a lot of people's Christmas present problems. Or it certainly should do.' -- Jonathon Green, lexicographer & author of Green's Dictionary of Slang; 'Fantastic' -- Moose Allain; 'If words were calories, this book would have you breaking the scales. To support my outrageous claim I refer you to urban legends which assert that certain brands of savoury snacks have 'something in them' which makes the brain crave more and more until the whole packet is gone. Whatever that something is, Paul Anthony Jones has imbibed plenty of it before compiling this endearing little book.' --blogger Richard Littledale; 'For the bookish, the wordists, the nerdists, the swots... Paul Anthony Jones has compiled you the most absorbing and fascinating dip-in tome you will find all year ... Word Drops is very much a book to dip in and out of. It's a series of endless (but linked) words, coupled to their origins, meanings and a quantity of footnotes so great that they would put even David Foster Wallace to shame [...] Word Drops is a nerdist's paradise. An intricately researched and elegantly put together collection of wordy nuggets. I challenge you to flick through the book, open it at any page and not find something worth sharing with someone else.' --blogger MadamJ-Mo; 'It's hard to imagine anyone not being charmed by this breezy medley of self-contained yet interconnected miscellany. Once you pick up the string, you'll be tempted to keep pulling till you reach the end, and how quickly that takes may depend chiefly on how often you stop to share its contents with a neighbour.' -- blogger Stan Carey; 'Joy for the language-addicted!' -- Ian McMillan, Radio Presenter, Writer, Man About Town; 'A succinct, charming assemblage of unusual words' -- Greg Jenner, author of A Million Years in a Day; 'Brilliant for anyone interested in the effervescent oddness of English' --Stig Abell, Managing Editor, The Sun

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Book SynopsisDecorative textures and colour are integral to the design of every piece of jewellery. This beautiful book covers a range of techniques and materials, which can be used to bring excitement, meaning and interest to your designs. Written by two experienced designer-makers and tutors, it encourages you to experiment, make samples, bend the rules (safely) and see what results are possible, before following the detailed technical advice to apply the techniques to your work. Topics covered include: embossing - techniques include hammering, stamping and roll printing to imprint a pattern, design and details onto the surface of the work. Heat application is covered and techniques include reticulation, granulation and casting. Further ideas and techniques cover the use of removing metal; colour techniques incorporating coloured metals in a piece of jewellery and the use of mixed media i.e. resin, wood, glass, anodised aluminium and gemstones. There are exercises that demonstrate a technique and experiment with the process, including

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Book SynopsisThis book is a breath of fresh air showing you the fundamental skills and techniques you will need to start binding your own books. You don't need a lot of expensive tools or materials to do bookbinding and this guide has been made to make the process accessible for any one who wants to do some "weekend projects". This book will appeal to people who love books, but lead busy lives and yet still want to be creative. It will show you the basics and teach the fundamental skills and practices that will get you binding your own books in no time. These skills will then be transferable across a number of projects contained within and hopefully make you want to learn more. The 'Weekend Projects' will include how to do simple repairs on your old and well loved books, giving them a new lease of life, including adding hard covers to paperbacks and doing simple repairs. Along with these we will be creating bespoke notebooks and it will show you some unique ways to use your new found binding skills to keep and store your special cards. The aim of this book is to inspire new binders young to old and everything in between.

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Book SynopsisDiscover how to create amazingly lifelike portraits of animals, pets and wildlife in Woodburning Realistic Animals. Award-winning artist Minisa Robinson challenges the reader to rethink the possibilities of woodburning with her techniques for creating highly realistic art. Pyrographers who love animals and portraits will find 20 step-by-step projects here for North American and African wildlife, domestic animals, and birds. From cats and dogs to eagles, elk and elephants, each project includes hand-drawn patterns, photo references, and step-by-step instructions. Minisa covers all the woodburning basics, from supplies and surface preparation to protecting and sealing the finished piece. She provides essential skill-building tutorials for creating realistic eyes, noses, short fur, long fur, hair, manes, whiskers, and feathers. Tips and advice on working with photos, turning photos into patterns, and transferring photos to wood are also included.

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Book SynopsisDesign a completely unique quilt using a library of over 6,000+ blocks with the Electric Quilt 8 Quilt Design Software. Electric Quilt 8 (EQ8) is the most user-friendly quilt design software on the market! It's redesigned from previous versions with a friendly new look that includes large interface elements for faster, more intuitive learning. EQ8 comes with more than 40 new and updated features, including thousands of new block designs and fabrics. With EQ8, you can design your own quilts using the 6,000+ included blocks and fabrics (or add your own!). Print your fabric yardage, rotary-cutting charts, templates, or foundation patterns and sew your unique masterpiece! In EQ8, you can Design quilts at any size – Start with a layout from the library, or choose a pre-designed Quick Quilt project for instant inspiration. For complete control, design your layout from scratch! Draw block patterns of all sizes and styles – EQ8 has full drawing capabilities to create any kind of block. Draft your block from scratch, use the built-in grids or import a photo or sketch to trace. The Block Library is full of over 6,000 pre-drawn designs ready for you to use in your quilt designs. Use these blocks as they are, or edit them to add your own touch. Scan and import fabric – Scan your fabric or take a picture of it, then import the image into EQ8. Use the scaling, straightening and cropping tools to make sure your fabric looks as accurate as possible. You can also add fabrics from the web! The EQ8 Fabric Library comes pre-loaded with 6,200 fabrics from top manufacturers! Calculate yardage – Get yardage estimates for your quilt, including borders! You choose the appropriate fabric width to get the most accurate requirements. Using fat quarters? No problem! If you make changes to your quilt, your yardage automatically updates. Print patterns – Print patterns for the blocks in your quilt. EQ8 uses the sizes you defined for the blocks and adds the seam allowance, where necessary. Choose to print templates, foundation patterns, rotary cutting charts and pictures of your blocks and quilts. Export images – Are you submitting your quilt design to a magazine? EQ8 exports high-resolution images perfect for print publications. Export web images to post on your blog, website or on social media. Link your Facebook account to EQ8 so you can easily share images of your designs with your friends and followers. The EQ8 package contains a software download licence. The licence is used to claim, download and install the software from ElectricQuilt.com. Users can choose the Mac or PC version during the claim process. Complete instructions are included. System Requirements: Minimum System Requirements DISCLAIMER: EQ8 will not run on Chromebooks or any devices running Android or iOS. EQ8 requires Windows or Mac operating systems, as listed below. Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, or Windows 7 with Service Pack 1 macOS Monterey (12), Big Sur (11) Intel and M1 processors, Catalina (10.15), Mojave (10.14), High Sierra (10.13) If you want to run EQ8 on BOTH platforms, you must purchase the EQ8 Migration Kit to get the installation files for the second platform. Internet Access Required Internet access required for downloading, activating, periodic validation and accessing the support materials. You can be disconnected from the internet for general use of the software. Activation Unlimited installations. Two (2) computers may be simultaneously active. Activations can be easily transferred between computers. Activations are done through electricquilt.com Space Requirements 850 MB of available hard-disk space for installation; additional free space required during installation. Recommended Resolution Screen resolution of 1280 x 1024 or greater. (A Minimum of 1024 x 768 is required).Trade ReviewHonestly EQ8 has blown me away, it does so much more than I thought it could and I haven’t even had time to explore all the features yet! This review took me many more hours than expected as I kept finding new exciting things to do with it. Like the serendipity tool that lets you merge blocks together, tilt them, frame them, create kaleidoscopes with them etc, the photo editing tools, the ability to draw your own blocks from scratch, the masses of existing blocks to choose from and edit should you choose. I feel like months, or even years down the line you would still be discovering cool new things you can do with this software when designing quilts and blocks. Like with most software it takes time to get to grips with it and explore its full potential but there are plenty of resources to help you the quick start guide that comes with it, the free online classes, their YouTube channel and website, the Facebook group and the supporting books you can purchase. If you like to design your own quilts EQ8 will certainly help you take that to the next level. -- Fiona Pullen * The Sewing Directory *

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Book SynopsisPart of an exciting series of sturdy, square-box 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles from Flame Tree, featuring powerful and popular works of art. This new jigsaw will satisfy your need for a challenge, with Alice and the Cheshire Cat. This 1000 piece jigsaw is intended for adults and children over 13 years. Not suitable for children under 3 years due to small parts. Finished Jigsaw size 735 x 510mm/29 x 20 ins. Now includes an A4 poster for reference.This image is from the shortened version of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1865), ‘The Nursery Alice’ (1889/90). The story was adapted by the author for younger children. The fantasy world on the other side of the rabbit hole has influenced literary retellings, artwork, music, film, and pushed the boundaries of the magical world by reminding us there is no limit to the madness or the creativity of the creator.

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Book SynopsisThis extensively illustrated volume focuses on William Morris (1834–1896), placing his wallpaper designs within the context of the radical changes in taste witnessed during the Victorian era. Against a backdrop of the fanciful, naturalistic patterns that typified fashionable papers in Morris’s youth, the impact of the Reform Movement of the mid-19th century is underscored, particularly the reformers' crusade against such multi-coloured ornamental decoration. Instead, the insistence on the concepts of honesty and propriety as promoted by A. W. N. Pugin and Owen Jones, are demonstrated as influences on Morris. The role of imported Japanese wallpapers is also explored, giving insight into a seldom-discussed cultural exchange evidenced within the story of Morris & Co, which produced wallpapers from 1864 until 1940 and, after a post-war hiatus, from the 1960s to the present. Amplifying Morris’s role in the creation of an influential and lasting style, his work is set within a selection by other designers, including Christopher Dresser and C. F. A. Voysey. Also introduced are firms of significance including Jeffrey & Co. and Arthur Sanderson & Sons, both of whom block-printed the Morris wallpapers. In a highly visual presentation, what is revealed are influences across time and within a global context, as pertinent to the creation of wallpaper art in the 19th century as it is today.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing 600+ sketches depicting a vast array of beautiful animal forms, detailed faces, and more, Draw Like an Artist: 100 Realistic Animals is a must-have visual reference book for student artists, scientific illustrators, urban sketchers, and anyone seeking to improve their realistic drawing skills. This contemporary, step-by-step guidebook demonstrates fundamental art concepts like proportion, anatomy, and spatial relationships as you learn to draw a full range of creatures, all shown from a variety of perspectives. Each set of illustrations takes you from beginning sketch lines to a finished drawing. Author Melissa Washburn is a skilled illustrator whose clear and elegant drawing style will make this a go-to sourcebook for years to come.Draw Like an Artist: 100 Realistic Animals is the third book in the Draw Like an Artist series following Faces and Figures and Flowers and Plants. The books in the Draw Like an Artist series are richly visual references for learning how to draw classic subjects realistically through hundreds of step-by-step images created by expert artists and illustrators.Table of ContentsIntroduction How to Use This Book Tips for Better Line Control SECTION 1: FAMILIAR HOUSEHOLD ANIMALS German Shepherd Greyhound Beagle Boston Terrier Corgi Puppy Tabby Cat Persian Cat Kitten Goldfish Guinea Pig Gecko Rabbit Mouse Rat Ferret Box Turtle Parakeet SECTION 2: OTHER DOMESTIC ANIMALS Horse Foal Goat Sheep Pig Cow Duck Chicken Chick Camel Llama Chinchilla SECTION 3: WILD ANIMALS Fox Wolf Tiger Lion Squirrel Chipmunk Bat Raccoon Opossum Porcupine Prairie Dog Grizzly Bear Polar Bear Panda Koala Lemur Gazelle Rhinoceros Hippopotamus Deer Elk Moose Kangaroo Beaver Giraffe Elephant Gorilla Sloth Zebra Bobcat Cheetah Chimpanzee Capuchin Monkey Otter Seal Walrus Manatee Whale Dolphin SECTION 4: BIRDS Owl Robin Flamingo Woodpecker Penguin Ostrich Heron Hummingbird Chickadee SECTION 5: REPTILES, AMPHIBIANS, CEPHALOPOD Chameleon Iguana Bullfrog Tortoise Alligator Python Octopus SECTION 6: DETAILS AND PARTS Canine Head and Features Canine Front vs. Side Pose Canine Feet Canines in Motion Feline Head and Features Feline Front vs. Side Pose Feline Feet Felines in Motion Horse Head and Features Horse Legs and Feet Horse in Motion Birds in Flight Bird Feet Drawing Fur Drawing Feathers About the Author Acknowledgments

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Book SynopsisAuthentic historical costume is essential for any performance, to instantly communicate a period, a social standing, an occupation or an identity. The responsibility of this representation lies with the costume maker, in their knowledge of the design and their accuracy of construction. The Costume Maker's Companion serves as an aide memoire, to novice and experienced makers alike, covering the common garments of the Medieval, Tudor, Jacobean, Restoration, Regency and Victorian eras of British history. Learn the key styles and fashions of each period before step-by-step tutorials and detailed orders of work illustrate the costume construction process for eight popular garments, from the designer's drawing through to the finished piece. This book also covers working with a costume designer; key processes and equipment; flat pattern manipulations; cutting a pattern on the stand; taking a pattern from an existing garment; costume details, including goldwork and flounces and finally, making accessories, including gauntlets, corsets and ruffs. Logically divided by historical period and supported by over 400 photographs, sketches and diagrams, this book will develop the confidence of any costume maker to take on new projects and expand their knowledge.Trade ReviewBy sharing her extensive expertise and comprehensive understanding of the craft, Favell has created a realistic, user-friendly manual, which also successfully addresses the realities of costume making. The Costume Maker’s Companion is sure to become an invaluable additional resource for the fledgling costume maker about to embark on a career in the performing arts industry. -- Toni Bate, Reviewer LIPA * Studies in Costume and Performance Vol 6, No 2 *

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Book SynopsisIan Nepomniachtchi, challenger to Magnus Carlsen's World Championship title in 2021, is an outstanding chess talent. "Nepo" as he is universally known is a fascinating player and this book assesses his career and analyses his original and creative style in great depth with numerous deeply annotated games. Nepo is one of the very few players in the world to hold (at least prior to the match) a plus score (four wins to one with six draws) against Carlsen in classical chess. Nepo and Carlsen are peers and first started playing each other in the Under-12 category of the World Youth Championship in 2002. In that event, Nepo edged out Carlsen on tie-break. At that time he out-rated Carlsen by 100 points and was generally considered to be the more promising of the two prodigies. Nepo is a fascinating player who loves open and irrational positions and excels when on the attack. Unsurprisingly, he cites Mikhail Tal as his all-time favorite player and says Tal is the player who has exerted the greatest influence on him. As with that great Latvian genius, Nepo thrives on anarchy and chaos and has frequently got the better of Carlsen in games with mind-boggling complications. He is also lethal when he has the initiative. Nepo has steadily climbed the world rankings and his finest achievement was his victory in the 2020/2021 Candidates' tournament with 81/2/14 points (+5-2=7) which gave him the right to challenge Carlsen for the world title.

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Book SynopsisBring nature with you wherever you go with these 35 beautiful projects, all incorporating floral motifs. Divided into three chapters, the book begins with Starting Out, where you will find a Tote Bag, Egg Cosies and some adorable Floral-edged Jam Pot Covers, which are all perfect for first-time stitchers. Next, move on to Practice Makes Perfect, where you can develop your crochet skills to make beautiful cushion covers, place mats and blankets to decorate your home. Finally, more experienced crafters will love the projects in Confident Crocheting – from a Daisy Scarf and Floral Bag, to a Vintage-style Vase Coaster and Gypsy Queen throw that will stay in the family for generations. There is also a Crochet Know-How section, where beginners and more experienced crocheters will find all the information required to make the projects, explained in an easy-to-understand way.

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