Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

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Book SynopsisTwenty to Knit: Easy Knitted Tea Cosies contains twenty fun, colourful and easy-to-knit tea cosies. This book contains a wide range of designs, from funky fruit and friendly owls to contemporary stripes, along with Autumn, Christmas and Valentine’s Day designs. These cute and quirky tea cosies are quick to make and great for brightening up your home or giving as gifts.Trade ReviewOctober 2014 Easy is the operative word and nineteen out of the twenty cosies follow the same shape just about. The designs are quirky, but my favourite is the odd one out shape-wise – the owl, he’s adorable. Some of the designs are seasonal, all are appealing. A sure winner in the Twenty to Make series from this publisher. Easy to follow instructions and clear photographs. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *October 2014 Here are 20 fresh, exciting designs for desirable, colourful and easy-to-knit tea cosies. The book includes a wide range of designs that are quick to make and great fro brightening up our home or giving as gifts. * Machine Knitting Monthly *July 2014 As you know I am new to knitting myself so I am really excited about this book! I love the twenty to make range. They are fantastic value for money and always have fun and interesting projects. The patterns are set out well and really easy to follow. They are brilliant patterns for everyone from a beginner to an experienced knitter to try. They are fun and interesting and look fantastic. They would make brilliant gifts and they are fantastic to brighten up any kitchen. The different designs include ones that would be brilliant for different times of the year. Most of my family drink tea using a tea pot. In fact my mum and dad have been known to take their teapot on holiday with them :-). I will be making a few for different family members for Christmas. The twenty designs include: • Bee Hive • Simple Stripes • Starts and Moon • Watermelon • Owl • Grapes • Nautical • Daisy • Ladybug • Strawberry • Cow • Butteryfly • Valentine's Day • Pumpkin • Christmas • Cherry • Apple • Carrots • Bee • Falling Leaves I think the only problem you may have with the book is which tea cosy to make! Really good book, fantastic value & brilliant designs. * Crochet Addict UK *Table of ContentsIntroduction 4 Knitting know-how 6 Bee Hive 8 Hudson’s Bay Company 10 Stars and Moon 12 Watermelon 14 Owl 16 Cow 18 Grapes 20 Nautical 22 Daisy 24 Ladybird 26 Strawberry 28 Apple 30 Valentine’s Day 32 Pumpkin 34 Christmas 36 Cherry 38 Carrots 40 Bees 42 Autumn Leaves 44 Apple Tree 46

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Book SynopsisForget your stresses and sink into a good night’s sleep with this beautiful, meditative colouring book.Sleep is the universal panacea for all manner of ills, but when the weight of the day is heavy on your shoulders, it can be elusive. Colouring is known to help the brain enter a meditative state, reducing stress and anxiety and leading to feelings of calm relaxation, in turn aiding restful sleep. The beautiful artwork in this book will enhance your wellbeing by helping you to become more mindful – to be ‘in the moment’ as you choose soothing colours and focus on the delicate lines, what you’re doing here and now, rather than worrying about what happened at work or any other anxieties. Free your mind and enjoy the process – you may well surprise yourself with the results.Also available: · The Wellbeing Colouring Book: Calm (9781789294330)· The Wellbeing Colouring Book: Energize (9781789294330)· The Wellbeing Colouring Book: Mindful (9781789294323)

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Book SynopsisWritten by expert shibori teacher Jane Callender, this beautiful, practical book is packed with both traditional and inventive stitch-resist techniques, a complete dyeing guide and an inspirational gallery of Jane’s work. This book contains all the information a beginner will need to get started - including tips on dyeing in small spaces and a guide to all the necessary health and safety considerations - but is also packed with innovative techniques and inspiring designs that will appeal to the experienced textile artist. The book is broken into three sections. The first shows you all the key stitch-resist techniques you need - from the basics right through to creating intricate designs – and all are clearly explained with photography and illustrations. Learn how to create a range of different shibori styles, oversew, make circles and other shapes, use grids, double needles, stencils and caps, bind fabrics, work with machine stitch, use fabric buffers and incorporate appliqué. The second section shows you how to use motifs to create pattern: learn how to create and position designs, including traditional arrangements such as Karamatsu and Tatewaku, create composite designs and get tips on how to plan your own patterns. Finally, the book contains a complete guide to dyeing – it contains recipes, tips and advice so that you can get the very best from every dye bath you make. Learn how to dye with both natural and synthetic indigo, in organic and synthetic vats. Also choose from a wide range of natural dyes, iron rust and dazzling Procion dyes, which can be used in combination or alone for amazing effects. Trade ReviewJane Callender is possessed of a unique talent. Since she was a student at West Surrey College of Art and Design, she has dedicated herself to the subtle arts of shibori and indigo dyeing. She is an acknowledged master of her craft. Her innovative award-winning work, admired both for its artistry and high level of technique, has been widely exhibited. A patient and accomplished teacher with all the necessary technical skills at her fingertips, she lectures and conducts workshops across the globe and through her website ‘Callishibori’ supplies shibori materials and tools to a worldwide audience. Well known as the author of the seminal 2000 Pattern Combinations, she has now written this superlative book. Clear, concise, instructive and inspiring, it is destined to be an essential manual and classic work of reference for both beginners and advanced practitioners for many years to come. -- John Gillow * Customer Review *For anyone who has ever pulled up and dyed a simple stitched resist, the beauty and complexity of Jane Callender's work is awe-inspiring. In this generous book, she shares, with great detail, her mastery of shibori techniques and dyeing. Attention to detail makes this an excellent guide for all levels. An introduction explains shibori as the interaction between compressed cloth and dye. The section entitled "Shibori Tradition", along with additional pages throughout the book, reveal the history of shibori worldwide and how politics, economics, and fashion affected design, including particular techniques developed by significant Japanese masters in modern times. The "Techniques" section proceeds from the simplest to more complex stitched patterns and shows the power of simple motifs in repeat. Even complex techniques are made clear with step-by-step photos and illustrations. Only a few indigo photos are perhaps too dark to be easily discernible. Some 100 pages are devoted to cloth preparation and process for specific techniques. Even the most experienced practitioner will learn something new about stitching on a single layer, on folded or pleated cloth, or combined methods such as capping and oversewing. Developing a motif by filling in larger shapes encourages creativity. Techniques not usually associated with stitch resist, such as clamp resist and binding or capping to a core, increase our understanding of the possibilities. Suggestions on dip dyeing for variety in some patterns and buffers for clean edges and to prevent knots from pulling through are invaluable. Degumming silk and even working on synthetic fabrics for interesting dimensional results without dyeing is explained. Japanese stitch names are used throughout. The sections on "Pattern" and "Dyes" will set the novice on the right path. Although many examples are dyed in traditional indigo, which is particularly well suited to resist dyeing, mordanted natural dyes, tannins and fiber reactive dyes enliven the book. There are excellent didactic chapters at the end of the book on these dyes. Indigo in particular is well explained. Callender acknowledges the dye experts she has learned from: Michelle Kwon of maiwa, french dye chemist Michel Garcia, and her compatriot author Jenny Balford Paul. The chapters devoted to discharge and dyeing whet the appetite for further exploration. The reader is encouraged to innovate and adapt traditional patterns according to her own artistic creativity. The author provides excellent sections on working with a grid and planning ahead for complex interactions between small pattern motifs. Other valuable tips are highlighted throughout. Callender's book should be read through with care and referred back to often when planning a new project. In this age of searchable documents on line, references to useful pages on particular techniques are appreciated. Finally, the gallery of Callender's own inspiring artwork shows what true mastery of craft can produce. This is an excellent companion to Yoshiko Iwamoto Wada's two earlier seminal books on shibori. Callender's book is a must have for all textile schools, shibori dyers and surface design artists. -- Barbara Shapiro * Shuttle Spindle & Dyepot *Autumn 2017 The author is very well known as both a tutor and textile artist, and this book certianly met my high expectations. Starting with an explanation of the process and an overview of worldwide shibori traditions, the text moves seamlessly through a full description of procedures, starting with methods of scouring fabrics for dyeing, knots and stiching variations. The very clearly illustrated and numerous step-by-step methods, generally referred to by their traditional terminology, are illustrated with photographs of the results. Design advice is provided throughout, so that you don't just master techniques, but learn to use them as effectively as possible. Chapters towards the end of the book are devoted to dyeing firstly, with indigo (including the natural organic vat), then -more unusually for shibori using natural dyes, iron and finally cold water fibre reactive dyes. Unusually this book is very suitable for both beginners and more advanced dyers. For the former, the text is logically organised and clear enough to be viewed as a complete self-teaching guide, but even for those with some experience there are likely to be some new ideas to try. If you have never tried shibori before, the stunning photographs will inevitably tempt you in. Highly recommended. * Journal for Weavers, Spinners and Dyers *A comprehensive resource for shibori. The book is divided into three sections: Techniques, Pattern and Dyeing with how-to instructions and photographs. To my knowledge this is the most comprehensive book on shibori. Develop motifs for unique textiles. Indigo recipes and ones for other dyes too, ensure a range a colours. Suitable for the beginner with challenges for every level. Illustrated throughout with some of the most remarkable examples of shibori outside Japan. Learn about shibori tradition, preparation, process, pattern, folds and more. Mogume is my favourite technique. I found Jane's work years ago, and my jaw still drops at her amazing achievements. I just want to work through this book from beginning to end and over and over again. Absolutely essential for anyone interested in dyeing, stitching and shibori. Simply wonderful, demonstrating the true art of shibori. * Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Jane Callender has written the most marvellous book, 'Stitched Shibori', in encyclopaedic detail. Exploring the art of Shibori, in particular reference to stitched pieces and the pattern they create, this book exhaustively covers everything. It consists of three sections – Technique, Pattern and Dyeing. In Technique, there are 35 different approaches to stitching fabric. Many different stitches and patterns are explored, whether stitching on a single or double layer, how space between stitches can change a pattern, curve, pleat or binding. There are variations within each choice, producing multitudes of photographs of all the different effects achieved by changing the smallest detail. It is quite mind-boggling! If you want to work on stitched Shibori techniques, there can’t be many places where you can find all the answers. Pattern is a short section but teaches how to create the different patterns and stencils. You can see how combining techniques creates an infinite number of patterns – if you thought the first section was overwhelming, suddenly the world of Shibori opens up more widely. The Dyes section is extensively recipe-laden with many different Shibori dyes and how to create them. * Workshop on the web *May 2017 Shibori is a technique with its roots in Africa, China, and Japan. I’ve seen some pieces that are as intricate and delicate as a snowflake and as such I’ve rather filed this technique in the box marked ‘advanced’ i.e. not for me. Jane is a highly respected Shibori artist, teacher and speaker and so used to breaking down the technicalities of this centuries-old tradition into practical steps. The book is laid out intelligently, starting with the process of sewing in a single line of straight stitch with clear illustrations and photos showing the results that can be achieved. You can progress quite quickly by introducing more lines and layers or with folds and curves. Finished patterns can quickly become quite kaleidoscopic and for anyone interested in designing their own fabrics this could possibly get quite addictive. I was particularly drawn to the chapter on Wrapped Pattern, which combines stitching on the fold with binding the cloth around a cylinder for its more unpredictable results (but that’s me all over: living on the edge!). As with any technique involving dyes, you’ve got to have a certain amount of space to experiment and be comfortable handling chemicals. There are safety guidelines and recipes for all manner of dyes, both natural and synthetic, at the back of the book and some amazing colour combinations can be achieved with practice. Marigolds at the ready! * Popular Patchwork *Issue 40 Stitched Shibori is the Japanese art of immersing textiles in a dye bath and creating pattern using a range of stitched resist techniques (think tye-dyeing but on another level!). In this practical and beautiful guide , renowned expert Jane Callender showcases techniques, patterns and dyes in three comprehensive sections. Complete with full instructions, illustrations, photographs, designs, tips and advice, her guide features ideas for using grids, folding, pleating, motifs and stencils (plus other techniques) to create beautiful designs. It includes due recipes and useful advice on which fabrics to use. We believe it is a wonderful handbook for beginners and experienced textile artists alike. * Reloved *Shibori is a resist dye technique often associated with indigo. In its most basic form, stitches and/or pleats are applied to cloth before dyeing to create undyed, neutral marks or areas of pattern. Jane Callender, as Jenny Balfour-Paul explains in her foreward, is one of the few British shibori practitioners whose work can be considered a match to the foremost Japanese artists and in this book, the author brings to bear more than three decades of expert knowledge in this ancient craft. Callender wastes no time delving into every aspect of creating patterns using stitch resist. She begins with a brief introduction to shibori, before explaining the basics of preparation, tying knots, pulling threads and simple stitch arrangements. In pages 22-122 she explains all the key stitch-resist techniques needed – how various lengths, directions and rhythms of hand and machine stitch produce different marks. When combined with folds, pleats, binding, capping, wrapping, appliqué or multiple layers, the possibilities are endless. A second chapter reveals how to create intricate patterns. Finally she provides tuition and recipes for natural and synthetic indigo dyeing, as well as natural dyes and throughout, the instructions are explained clearly with helpful diagrams and photographs. Jane Callender has condensed a lifetime of practical expertise to create what can be best described as the shibori’s artist’s ‘best friend’, packed with both traditional and inventive stitch-resist techniques, designs and inspiration, including examples of her own work. Readers of this book will not be disappointed – both beginners and experienced makers will benefit from this guide, which at this price provides incredible value for a reference book you will return to again and again. * Embroidery Magazine *This is a lovely book, with a new technique I haven't tried before. I must admit I am more of a knitter and crocheter than stithcer, but the running stitch technique is easy to master, and the effects are amazing! What interested me most about the book was the section on natural dyeing (with yarn in mind!), and I found the step by step instructions really interesting and easy to follow. I have already ordered some indigo and alum, and intend to go foraging for some other natural products to continue this experiment! I honestly don't know how much shibori stitching I can see in my future, but I can see this book being pored over with regards to the fantastic dye section -- Natasha Field * Customer Review *At its simplest, shibori is the art of folding and pleating fabric, so distorting it before immersion in the dyebath. But it is so much more than that and eminent artist Jane Callender, who has devoted her working life to the art of shibori and indigo dyeing, presents, what will surely become, without doubt, a reference work for future generations of devotees of the craft. The book is divided into three sections – technique, pattern and dyeing, each meticulously explored with both lavish photography and highly detailed diagrams and explanations. A huge range of different stitch techniques are illustrated, used to create a myriad of specific designs and effects, together with the recipes for indigo and fibre-reactive dyes. This is an invaluable and inspiring resource book for both the beginner and the more experienced – highly recommended. * East Kent Embroiderers Guild *A beautifully presented book, with lots of information on the history of Shibori.Lovely projects, though not for the complete beginner to embroidery. The techniques are very clearly explained and illustrated , with step by step instruction,Definately a book i will use and reuse multiple times -- Jane Johnson * Customer Review *At first glance I thought this was going to be a little too technical and difficult for a beginner but I was so wrong. There is a section on the fascinating history of the craft, lots of different stitches to try and also details on how to make your own dye recipes. You are guided through each step with diagrams and photos which makes it very easy to follow. Its a very comprehensive book on this subject and I would recommend it to an enthusiastic beginner right through to the more accomplished crafter. -- Karen Painter * Customer Review *March 17 Master the art of Japanese stitch-resist dyeing through both traditional and more innovative techniques of stitching and staining fabric. This book guides you through the process starting with detailed explainations of how to create patterns with stitches and offering helpful photos of each finished effect. It contains all the information you need to get started, while its inspiring content ensures that it will remain a fruitful resource as you become an experiened textile artist. * Sew *A very technical book, which is also very informative. I would recommend it to students genuinely interested in Shibori and dyeing techniques. There is lots of imagery to inspire and whet the appetite. Written in a somewhat prescriptive manner which helps students to learn the techniques precisely and leaving room for further exploration. As always, excellent photography by Paul Bricknell adds value. Jane Callender brings her many years experience with this technique to bear in a way that will enable much learning to take place, for students of little or no experience and also for those in the know! I love the recipe charts, these make it all much easier to digest. -- Valerie Hughes * Customer Review *This book is a very informative & inspiring guide to the Japanese art of Shibori. It is well illustrated both with photos & diagrams. The results are stunning but the book guides you through the processes so that you feel good results are achievable even for a beginner. Shibori does not need a lot of specialist equipment & I think anyone with an interest in textiles would find this a very useful addition to their bookshelf -- Nicola Urmenyi * Customer Review *Although on first look the book looks very complicated however after reading the book the instructions are very clear and precise with handy little tips -- Jennifer Brain * Customer Review *Very informative book with lots of photos to guide you through this embroidery craft, I'm looking forward to trying this out for the first time! -- Donna Hall * Customer Review *Very comprehensive book on many aspects of this craft. At first look the book seemed quite complicated but once I started reading about this fascinating craft I now can't wait to get started. There are chapters on the history of Shibori. Plenty on the different types of stitching and dye patterns and a lovely section about natural dyes and how to recipes for them I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in this craft or anyone looking for a different craft to try -- Sharon Raglan * Customer Review *Table of ContentsWhat is shibori? 6 About this book 8 Shibori tradition 10 Stitch-resist techniques 14 Fabric preparation 15 The stitch-resist process 18 Stitching on a single layer 18 Mokume shibori 20 Blocks and stripes 24 Creating simple pattern 26 Double needles 31 Stitching with binding and capping 32 Capping 34 Oversewing 35 Oversewn shapes 37 Introducing the fold 39 Curves on the fold 40 One fold seam 43 Double fold 44 Shapes on the fold 46 Motif development 48 The versatile grid 55 The stitch grid 58 Folding on the grid 62 Two for the effort of one 65 Machined resist folds 66 Machined resists: dots, stripes and shapes 72 Machined resists using concertina folds 75 Wrapped pattern 82 Itajime shibori 86 Binding and capping to a core 92 Capping with plastic 94 Cores and reserved grounds 95 Chikuwa shibori 98 Dip-dyeing 100 Applying indigo with a pipette 103 Shirokage shibori 104 Appliqué shibori 108 Hotaru shibori 113 Degumming 116 Knots 118 Buffers 120 Pulling up 122 Creating pattern 124 Pattern in form 125 Traditional karamatsu 126 Takewaku 128 Traditional linked flower 130 Hemp leaf pattern 133 Planning pattern 136 Composite design for pattern 140 Dyes 142 Dipping into magical water: indigo 143 Natural chemical vat 144 Synthetic indigo vat 145 Natural organic vats 146 Indigo dyeing procedure 148 Indigo vat considerations 149 Indigo recipe charts 150 Other useful recipes 151 Indigo dyeing tips 152 Natural dyes 153 Iron rust 158 Cold water fibre-reactive dyes 161 Shibori equipment 166 Health and safety 168 Glossary 169 Gallery 170 Index 175 Biography 176

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Book SynopsisIn Beading for the Absolute Beginner, professional beadwork artists and teachers, Liz Thornton and Jean Power, tell you everything you need to know to create beautiful, colourful beaded accessories – even if you’ve never tried before. The techniques come with step-by-step instructions and the spiral, hands-free format enable you to practice and master each technique more easily. The book covers all the equipment and tools, terminology and techniques and also features a selection of attractive, simple projects specially designed for the beginner.Trade ReviewOriginally published back in 2006 this is a spiral bound reprint which stays obligingly flat while you are working through it. The Contents pages give a good idea of how the beading lessons are organized, each section showing how to make an item or two and use different tools, materials and techniques. It starts off with a handy overview of bead types, tools, findings and threads and has some useful points to think about when designing one’s own pieces. Unlike many hobbies even beginner beaders seldom work exclusively from kits and patterns so this is an essential inclusion. There are also tips for when buying items and hints on how to use the tools. Projects include simple bead stringing, using crimps, working with jump rings, tying knots in cord, working with wire and more. All the pieces are either contemporary or timeless and a wide variety of items are covered from necklaces and earrings to a hair decoration, key ring, watch strap and “barefoot sandals” for the beach. This is a book to have a good look through before buying anything as jewelry making has so many different parts and no beginner will need to buy everything. With all these basic techniques under their belt any tyro beader will be at intermediate stage after working through it all – this is an excellent book for beginners. * myshelf.com *

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Book SynopsisDefined by the Oxford Dictionary as "a genre of science fiction that typically features steam-powered machinery rather than advanced technology", Steampunk has taken the world by storm, rapidly moving from literature into movies, games and fashion. This book is an indispensable guide for those looking for inspiration and projects to create, from robot arms to jewellery and goggles!Trade Review"Steampunk is rapidly outgrowing niche status" (The New York Times) "A full-fledged subculture" (San Francisco Chronicle) "Nostalgia meets the future, joined carefully with brass screws" (The Boston Globe) "Steampunk has gotten increasingly intense and relevant, and right now it seems to be rising to the surface" (TIME Magazine)"

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Book SynopsisGamblers have been trying to figure out how to game the system since our ancestors first made wagers over dice fashioned from knucklebones: in revolutionary Paris, the 'martingale' strategy was rumoured to lead to foolproof success at roulette ; today, professional gamblers are using cutting-edge techniques to tilt the odds in their favour. Science is giving us the competitive edge over opponents, casinos and bookmakers. But is there such a thing as a perfect bet? The Perfect Bet looks beyond probability and statistics to examine how wagers have inspired a plethora of new disciplines - spanning chaos theory, machine learning and game theory - which are not just revolutionising gambling, but changing our fundamental notions about chance, randomness and luck. Explaining why poker is gaming's last bastion of human superiority over AI, how methods originally developed for the US nuclear programme are helping pundits predict sports results and why a new breed of algorithms are losing banks millions, The Perfect Bet has the inside track on any wager you'd care to place.Trade ReviewThis book is full of magic. It's brimming with clever people and clever ideas... The links between betting and science run deep and wide, allowing Kucharski to cover some thrilling intellectual territory. * New Scientist *Terrific: beautifully written, solidly researched and full of surprises * New York Times Numberplay blog *Elegant and amusing ... anyone planning to enter a casino or place an online bet would be advised to keep this book handy * Wall Street Journal *Kucharski's clear prose and eye for an entertaining historical anecdote give his book an accessible feel ... an enjoyable account. * Racing Post *[An] enjoyable... paean to human ingenuity, and a Robin Hood tale of wealth redistribution. * Daily Telegraph *Great stories of how smart people have used maths, statistics and science to try and beat the odds - legally' -- David Spiegelhalter, Winton Professor for the Public Understanding of Risk, University of CambridgeA wild ride through the history, psychology, mathematics, and technology of gaming - a remarkable look behind the curtain of what most people think is intuitive, but isn't -- Paul Offit, author of Bad FaithWith an entertaining writing style, Adam Kucharski guides us through the history and state of the art of "The Perfect Bet," showing us how mathematics and computers are used to come up with optimal ways to gamble, play games, bluff, and invest our money. Extremely well-written and carefully researched. I highly recommend it. -- Arthur Benjamin, Author of 'The Magic of Maths'A lucid yet sophisticated look at the mathematics of probability as it's played out on gaming tables, arenas, and fields... Gamblers and math buffs alike will enjoy it for its smart approach to real-world problems * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisLearn how to to keep all of your woodcarving tools and knives sharp and in tip-top condition with this comprehensive guide. Offering clear, step-by-step guidance, beginners will learn the basics of sharpening knives, gouges, V-tools, and chisels. Also included are informative sections on safety, basic sharpening techniques, what to keep in your sharpening kit, tool storage and clean-up tips as well as how to protect sharp edges, clean stops and sharpen stones. Learn essential tips and tricks from expert artist and best-selling author Lora Irish.

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Book SynopsisFrom making the first cut to applying the finish, this comprehensive resource covers every aspect of woodcarving. Every general carving style - from classical to whimsical to rustic - is detailed, as are the basic steps of power carving. The included step-by-step projects are designed to help beginner woodcarvers build proficiency and the handy resource section and a glossary complete this fully illustrated, must-have resource for all woodcarvers. The new edition includes an updated power carving section, two new step-by-step projects (a simple spoon and a Santa face) and updated photography.

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Book SynopsisWith clear, step-by-step instructions, detailed wood carving patterns, and materials lists, projects start off simple and slowly progress in difficulty so you can build your skills and accomplish the most challenging, final project. Also included are comprehensive overviews on sourcing green wood, roughing out, basic cuts, food-safe finishes, utensil care, and sustainable carving tips so you can learn everything you need to know before you begin spoon carving. Artistic and atmospheric photography elevates this project guide, as well as its emphasis on spoon carving as a way of life rather than just an occasional hobby.

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Book SynopsisStart sewing in no time with basics broken down to the simplest form! Professor Pincushion's Beginner Guide to Sewing assumes the reader has no sewing experience and has five projects to get you started.

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Book SynopsisLearn to flawlessly construct basic quilting blocks with this pocket guide. Includes techniques and foolproof tips to solve common construction problems for basic quilt blocks.

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Book SynopsisWelcome to the world of witchcraft! Create 22 easy-to-make tools you’ll turn to again and again from magic candles and fumigation sticks to runes and oracles and much more.

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Book SynopsisPersonalized note cards have never been so fun to create and gift!Handwritten notes and cards always bring a smile, so imagine a loved one's delight when your note comes to them in the form of a flapping paper crane! This DIY origami stationery kit teaches you how to create elegant, personally-folded notes and envelopes with a Japanese touch. 12 original design projects, including: The ingenious nautical-themed Sailboat Note The Twist Notefolded with a clever square-tile twist. The Flapping Crane Notethe wings really do flap!The Sweet & Simple Envelope Notewrite directly on the envelope, then include cash, a gift card or other small token withinAnd more!This origami stationary kit includes:36 beautifully-decorated paper folding sheetsA 32-page full-color instruction bookFolding Instructions for 12 elegant designsYour message becomes special when it's written and delivered on one of these beautifully-designed paper sheets. The high-quality double-sided folding sheets in this kit feature charming patterns printed in soft, calming blue-and-white tones

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Book SynopsisChess Opening preparation is probably the most difficult aspect of chess training, as the possibilities are endless. There is an abundance of training material, and especially adult improvers and regular club players find it challenging to study openings efficiently. International Master Jeroen Bosch gives them all the tools they need to dominate the opening phase of the game. He presents a structured approach to the study of openings and the preparation for a club match or tournament game. Every time-strapped chess improver will love his advice on opening preparation. Instead of studying more hours or memorizing more lines, they will have to start making smart choices.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing an iconic image from the world’s largest trading card game, Magic: The Gathering, this officially licensed puzzle will thrill and challenge fans worldwide.This 1,000-piece puzzle features an iconic image of The Gatewatch engaged in a battle with the infamous elder dragon and fallen Planeswalker known as Nicol Bolas, from the mythical world of Magic: The Gathering. This seminal art offers a colorful and dynamic challenge for fans, commemorating thirty years of their favorite strategy-based card game. With a finished size of 20 x 27 inches, this intricately designed jigsaw puzzle promises hours of fun.

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Book SynopsisCombining her passion for teaching with her mastery of both mediums, Camilla Damsbo Brix introduces budding artists to the whimsical beauty of watercolor, with the definition that ink offers, through 22 step-by-step floral compositions so exquisite they won’t believe how easy they are to make. Camilla gives insight into the respective fundamentals of ink and wash through basic techniques and preparatory sketches, where artists will learn crucial things like the difference between wet on wet and wet on dry, varying lines while inking, observational sketching of flowers and capturing harmonious floral compositions. Additionally, with a chapter entirely dedicated to sharing art with loved ones and with a larger artistic community, everyone will be well on their way to confidently and consistently blossoming in their practice. With Camilla’s gentle guidance, readers will be inking and painting classics like roses, lilacs and daisies, as well as annual beauties like dahlias, cosmos and sunflowers and lesser-known species like plumerias, gerberas and hellebores. This book has something for everyone, be it watercolor lovers trying to explore ink and vice versa, beginners wishing to grasp the intricacies of mixed media, or artists looking to strengthen their skills with elegant compositions they can proudly display. This book contains 22 projects and 22 photographs plus step-by-steps.

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Book Synopsis Put on your roller skates and relive the 1980s in this fantabulous activity book for adults and teens. This retro twist on the seek-and-find book features 20 radical scenes of life in the eighties. Explore burger joints, video rental stores, and high school lunch tables, keeping an eye out for fanny packs, cassette players, and other fun hidden objects along the way. Delightfully detailed illustrations offer hours of entertainment, turning a nostalgic childhood activity into a perfect way to unwind after work or chill out with friends. EIGHTIES NOSTALGIA: This is a perfect gift for adults who lived through the eighties and young people who are fascinated by retro aesthetics. Anyone who''s obsessed with the worlds of Stranger Things, Freaks and Geeks, and The Goldbergs will have endless fun poring over this activity book, which is full of clever references to the era. WHERE''S WALDO REIMAGINED: Revisit a class

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Book SynopsisYou've just gotten a LEGO robotics kit. Now what? Getting Started with LEGO Robotics teaches you everything you need to know to go from beginner to proficient robotics engineer, using examples compatible with the LEGO MINDSTORMS Robot Inventor and SPIKE Prime sets. You'll be making interactive games, competition-ready autonomous vehicles, and practical inventions like motorized grabbers and recycling sorters in no time. Loads of challenges and open-ended projects will inspire you to try out what you've learned.Trade Review"A MINDSTORMS set will direct you to build and program a robot, but Getting Started with LEGO® MINDSTORMS will tell you how to build and program with its open-ended prompts."—Joe Meno, BrickJournal"Written with a friendly, easy-to-follow voice . . . a supremely intuitive guide that’s meant to foster an interest in programming, building, and working with LEGO Mindstorms robots." —Rosemary Kiladitis, Mom Read It"This book will teach you everything you need to know to go from beginner to proficient robotics engineer."—Mariana Ruiz, GeekDad"A really good introduction to how to use [MINDSTORMS] . . . it's brilliant that the authors are making books like this."—GJBricks"Well thought-out [and] super easy to follow . . . I'd recommend [Getting Started with LEGO® MINDSTORMS] for anyone looking at getting into LEGO MINDSTORMS or LEGO Education Spike as it is a brilliant companion for a beginner." —LEGO BUILDZTable of ContentsIntroductionChapter 1: Building Your First RobotChapter 2: Introducing the MINDSTORMS AppChapter 3: Light and SoundChapter 4: Motors and MovementChapter 5: Events and ControlChapter 6: SensorsChapter 7: Operators and Remote ControlChapter 8: Variables, Lists, and My BlocksChapter 9: TroubleshootingChapter 10: Techniques for Better BuildingChapter 11: Fixes for Fables and Fairy Tales

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Book SynopsisWeekend Makes: English Paper Piecing teaches this traditional patchwork & quilting technique with a stylish collection of 25 simple projects for homewares and gift items. English Paper Piecing (EPP) is a hugely popular form of quilt-making that originated in England in the 1700s. It is a method of hand-piecing using a variety of paper templates to create an accurate mosaic-style pattern with a variety of fabrics. Beginner quilters will love the opening step-by-step instructions, while advanced sewers will enjoy using their existing skills to learn a new technique and create beautiful patchwork from a variety of interesting shapes including diamonds, triangles & clam shells as well as the traditional hexagon. Complete information on tools & equipment plus reusable templates and modern life-style photography give clear instructions for the construction of each project. The patterns are ideal for using up left-over fabrics, with a variety of colours and patterns throughout. Projects include: Brooch, small basket, tea cosy, notebook cover, cushion tote bag, tablet storage. 25 EPP projects for homewares and gift items Hugely popular form of quilt-making Beginner-friendly through to more advanced patterns Clear, illustrated step-by-step instructions, reusable templates and detailed notes and tips Latest in the Weekend Makes quilting collection from Janet Goddard Table of ContentsIntroduction What is EPP Brief history Benefits of portable sewing, relaxation, mindfulness Templates • Choosing and making paper templates • Buying pre-cut paper templates • Use of acrylic templates Fabrics and Thread • How to choose the fabrics for your project • Thread selection Tools and Equipment • The basic equipment for EPP • Tools and equipment needed to finish projects • Measurements • Embellishments/finishing Techniques - the EPP basics • Cutting the fabrics (strip cutting, tracing and cutting or using acrylic templates) • Preparing the shapes, tacking vs gluing, how to tack, methods for different shapes • Stitching the patches together, what stitch to use, starting, finishing • How to remove the papers, pressing • Attaching the EPP design to your project by hand and machine, trimming your work Techniques – for finishing your projects • To include zips, quilting, binding, hand stitching Projects using hexagons 1. Coasters 2. Zippy pouch 3. Lavender bag 4. Brooch 5. Christmas decoration Projects using diamonds 6. Table mat 7. Tea cosy 8. Oven pad 9. Coffee cosy 10. Small basket Projects using triangles 11. Pencil case 12. Notebook cover 13. Phone case 14. Door stop 15. Tablet storage Projects using clam shells 16. Hot water bottle cover 17. Cushion Projects using apple cores 18. Cushion 19. Tote bag Projects combining shapes (any shapes combined together) 20. Needle case 21. Pincushion 22. Button bag 23. Ball 24. Glasses case 25. Drawstring bag

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Book SynopsisThe third title in Nichole Vogelsinger’s bestselling embroidery series. This highly illustrated paperback with flaps is the follow-up to two bestselling embroidery books by Nichole Vogelsinger. With more than 100 illustrations and 50 photographs, Boho Embroidery will re-establish the techniques discussed in the previous books and lay a foundation for four new ones: beading/embellishing, stumpwork, fabric painting, and needle felting. Each technique will have three projects, so readers can continue to deepen their embroidery skills.

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Book Synopsis35 meditative knitting patterns that use colour, repetition and texture to help you unwind and destress. The relaxing rhythm and hand movements of knitting make it the perfect activity to absorb your attention and distract you from unwanted thoughts. As well as being beautiful makes, these 35 projects are specially designed to be a form of mindfulness practice. Suitable for beginners through to experienced knitters, the patterns will help you stitch away stress by incorporating calming repetition and different textures, as well as mood-boosting bright colours and soothing pastel shades. Many of the projects make ideal gifts, bringing you satisfaction and positivity as you knit them for other people. There are also homewares including a mandala pillow and a meditation garland so that you can create an inspiring environment, as well as cosy accessories and garments to allow you to focus on yourself. All of the techniques and stitches you will need are explained with easy-to-follow instructions and step-by-step artworks. Let the click of the needles and the rhythm of the stitches help you to be in the moment, bringing you calmness and a sense of wellbeing.

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Book SynopsisFrom kittens and zebras to mice, teddy bears and more, this colourful and whimsical book - perfect for fans of amigurumi - will let you scratch that creative itch by showing you how to bring to life 15 adorable cuddly toys through the addictive art of crocheting.The book is broken down into four manageable sections, in which author and designer Laurence Jourdan covers the principles of the art, the essential tools needed to get started, how to master the different techniques, and finally directions and advice on how to perfect his gorgeous animal designs so you can make your own cuddly friends!With step-by-step instructions and handy photographs to guide you through each stage, How to Crochet Cute Animals will have you ‘hooked’ on this absorbing activity in no time.

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Book SynopsisFrom bestselling author Johanna Basford, a stunning new colouring book that invites artists to explore the great indoorsThrough her bestselling colouring books and distinctive illustrations, Johanna Basford's beautiful forests, ocean depths, and hidden magical kingdoms have enchanted millions of people around the world. In this newest work, Basford takes her audience indoors, inviting them to explore the wonders of the worlds within. Hidden within every illustration in Rooms of Wonder is a secret key and a locked door. Find the key, unlock the door and continue to the next room. Discover a busy craft studio, a wizard's workshop, a mouth-watering ice cream parlour and an opulent banquet hall. With hidden treasures, curious spaces and a few enchanted interiors, all you need to do is unlock the first door and begin your magical journey.

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Book SynopsisLet your embroidery skills blossom with these 15fun, floral designs featuring Rebekah's love forbright, blooming colour palettes. Learn about allof the basic techniques and supplies you'll needfor hand embroidery, then dive into the delightfuldesigns featured within the book. All pieces arestitched with DMC threads and include the colournumbers for your convenience. From wildflowerbouquets to birds and butterflies, these originalembroidery patterns are perfect for stitchers atany level, and are sure to brighten up your space.

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Book SynopsisFrom the medieval cobbles, through Dickensian iron and fog, to the neon lights and bustle of the twenty-first century, the ever-changing streets of London map out the vibrant stories, triumphs and struggles of everyone who ever called London home. From the Roman and Celts marching along the ancient Old Kent Road, to the rattling newspaper presses of Fleet Street, the game of Monopoly has painted London's story across cheerful coloured tiles. But those Monopoly streets live and breathe - they don't just illuminate our history. They open up whole new ways of thinking about it. The mobs have taken to our streets. The overlords have taken them back. Wars have spilled out into them. Lovers have snuck around them, and fires have raged through them. In a city of rags and riches, where folk hero Dick Whittington believed the streets were paved with gold, anything could happen - and everything has. You may think you know the history of London. You don't. Or at least, not entirely. This is the story of the capital as you've never, quite, heard it before.

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Book SynopsisWe sometimes playfully wonder what the meaning of life might be - but it can be hard to kick start a conversation with ourselves (let alone with anyone else) around such a daunting subject. Here are 52 cards that directly and elegantly lead us to some of the largest questions about life and its meaning – cards that help us and our companions to think with exceptional depth about what truly matters, where we see ourselves heading and what gives life its purpose. This is a tool for direction, clarity – and some of the deepest yet most fun and entertaining conversations we’ll ever have.

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Book SynopsisA lot of what makes life worth living isn’t to do with great, heroic or costly things, but with modest pleasures that are all around us, largely unnoticed, available for almost nothing. It might be a beautiful sky, the smell of freshly cut grass, or a friend who understands how we feel. With beautiful photography and a few well-chosen words, this pack of cards draws us back to an appreciation of the overlooked ordinary, gently prompting us to remember that life is more precious and richer than we generally allow. Examples of the small pleasures below, each accompanied with a beautiful image: Children’s drawings Old stone walls. In the heat, lying in a field, looking up. Crying cathartically over the death of a fictional character. Fresh French bread; butter. The song you want to listen to again and again.

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Book SynopsisWe still pay homage to one of the most relevant philosophies ever devised when we call someone ‘stoic’ for the way they handle the challenges in their lives with resilience and calm. Originating in Greece around 300 BCE, Stoicism was for many centuries the most popular philosophy in the Western world, teaching people practical advice on how they could flourish in uncertain times and overcome their anxieties. This box of cards gathers together the best insights and sayings from the great Stoic thinkers and marries them up with commentaries that bring out their applicability to our own lives. This is both an elegant summary of an ancient philosophy and a route to self-knowledge, serenity and strength of mind.

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Book SynopsisHuman Anatomy is the section of biology relating to the structure of the human body. With this kit you can explore and learn about the human body by assembling your own male torso. Each piece of the skeleton and organs fit together like a jigsaw puzzle, so that you can understand the human frame and the organs within it, including the brain, skeletal, digestive and cardiovascular systems.

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Book SynopsisWell Worn is the perfect book both for stitching pros and for those who have never picked up a needle and thread before. The sustainable darning and sashiko techniques taught in this book fight against perfectionism as well as fast fashion. Begin by getting to grips with core mending skills, with a handy introductory compendium of visible mending techniques. Then, move on to convenient garment-led chapters, from socks to jeans, and from knitwear to stretch fabric, each with a wide variety of ideas and advice for approaching whatever piece of clothing you wish to revive. Whether you''re interested in fostering a more sustainable lifestyle, saving money by avoiding fast fashion, or simply engaging with a new creative outlet, this book is an accessible introduction for anyone looking to explore visible mending and revolutionise their wardrobe.Including advice for mending:- Jeans- Jumpers & Knitwear- Shirts- T-Shirts- Leggings- Sock

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Book SynopsisSince its inception decades ago, the tabletop roleplaying game Dungeons & Dragons has offered an escape from the real world, the chance to enter distant realms, walk in new shoes, and be part of immersive, imaginative tales as they unfold. More so, in Thom James Carter's opinion, it's a perfect vessel for queer exploration and joy. Journey on, adventurer, as Dungeon Master Thom invites readers into the game's exciting queer, utopian possibilities, traversing its history and contemporary evolution, the queer potential resting within gameplay, the homebrewers making it their own, stories from fellow players, and the power to explore and examine identity and how people want to lead their lives in real and imagined worlds alike. Grab a sword and get your dice at the ready, this queer adventure is about to begin. (This book is unofficial and unaffiliated with properties Wizards of the Coast and Dungeons & Dragons.)Table of ContentsIntroduction: Session 0 Part One: Here be dragons - and queers Chapter 1: A potted history of Dungeons & Dragons Chapter 2: The contemporary realms of D&D Chapter 3: Queerness at the source Part Two: Queer play, exploration, joy and creativity Chapter 4: The character sheet is more than a character sheet Chapter 5: The magical effects of roleplay Chapter 6: The Dungeon Master's world Chapter 7: Raise a tankard to the homebrewers, creators, and community Part Three: Queer D&D's past, present, and future Chapter 8: Problems & Hope Conclusion: As one journey ends, another begins References Acknowledgements About the Author

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Book Synopsis

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