Search results for ""Search Press""

Discover the joy of making your own customized, natural cosmetics that won't harm the earth or your delicate skin!

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Kawaii is a Japanese word meaning 'super-cute', and it's a trend that's sweeping the globe. Anything can be drawn in the kawaii style, from animals, people, vegetables and flowers to food, vehicles and household items. Here, expert comic book and manga artist Yishan Li shows you how to achieve amazingly adorable drawings in just a few simple steps. Draw the cutest dog you've ever seen, or turn a car into a cute and cuddly character complete with eyes and a smiley mouth. Even a vacuum cleaner and a television set are brought to life in kawaii style. There are 30 different drawings to choose from, all full of personality and bubbling over with charm. Each one is developed in 8 easy stages from a rough sketch of the basic shapes through to the finished, coloured drawing, making this book suitable for adults and children of all ages and abilities. With its easy-to-follow landscape format you can watch the stages build across the page and then recreate them with ease. The book contains material previously published in How to Draw Kawaii, 2020.

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Draw 30 amazing animals in 8 easy stages or fewer.

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Crochet yourself a world of cute animal friends! Best-selling author Sarah Abbondio brings you 20 new loveable amigurumi animals, including dogs, crocodiles, bears, pandas, pigs, hippos, penguins and more! Begin by creating a simple body shape, which is used for every project, and then learn to crochet each animal's unique features, such as horns, ears and tails. Part of the All-New Twenty to Make series, this little hardback book is the perfect guide for any beginner. All you need is a crochet hook and a small amount of yarn to bring your own menagerie of adorable animals to life.

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This inspiring book has been reimagined as part of the accessible Anyone Can Paint series. Whether you are a beginner or a more experienced artist you will be amazed at how quickly you can produce beautiful paintings following the clear, straightforward written and visual steps. The outlines for each of the six projects appear at the end of the book for you to trace, transfer and customize so you can start to paint impressive floral compositions straight away. Written by professional artist and tutor Julie King, this guide features a short but inclusive ‘what you need’ section, enabling you to gather together the paints, brushes, and basic equipment required before you start painting. Additionally, the book provides some brief guidance on general techniques, such as how to hold the brush, how to add water to your paint, and how to mix your colours to achieve the perfect petal hue. The six stunning step-by-step projects that follow build in difficulty as you work through the book, introducing new techniques as they are used and incorporating numerous handy hints and tips from the author to help you progress on your painting journey. Previously published as The Paint Pad Artist: Watercolour Flowers (9781782216261).

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Crack out the crayons, Gromit lad, and get colouring with this inventive new colouring book! Wallace, inventor extraordinaire, and his canine companion, Gromit, invite you to spend a grand day in, colouring in iconic scenes and classic characters from four of their hit films: A Grand Day Out, The Wrong Trousers, A Close Shave and A Matter of Loaf and Death. The Wrong Trousers celebrates its thirty-year anniversary in 2023 so make sure you use the Right Pencils – and watch out for silent penguins masquerading as house guests... The perfect opportunity for fans of the films first time round to enjoy them anew.

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Take a walk through the seasons with Waltraud Nawratil in this vibrant guide to painting nature in watercolour. Discover new and traditional watercolour techniques: textural effects, backgrounds, exciting colour combinations and much more to create 30 stunning watercolour paintings that bring the natural world to life. Paint your way through a luscious landscape of flowers, fruits and trees, including a vibrant vase of impatient spring blooms, dreamy waterlilies floating on a still pond in summer, a golden forest and a copious autumn harvest, and ending with an exuberant pink poinsettia complete with frost-tipped leaves, which marks the coming of Christmas and the closing of the year. Each painting is worked in watercolour in the author's loose, delicate style. An ideal introduction to watercolour painting and an unmissable guide to developing technical skills – with plentiful inspiration for creating your own works of nature-inspired art.

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If you love horses and ponies but don't know where to start when drawing them, this is the book for you! 10 Step Drawing: Horses & Ponies will help you turn simple shapes into the perfect equine companion in just ten easy steps. Create over 50 different breeds in a variety of poses, from a rearing Hanoverian to a grazing Fell pony by following the step-by-step instructions. Learning to draw has never been so simple!

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Transforming pre-loved clothes into stylish, unique garments for your baby or toddler is great for the environment, great for your bank balance and, most of all, great fun! In Restyle & Restitch for Little Ones, you will find 30 sewing projects for creating stylish baby clothes, from newborns to two-year-olds, including trousers, dresses, sweaters, mittens, rompers and socks. The projects are accompanied by colourful, full-size patterns to help you make the most of your repurposed clothing. You will discover how best to change the size of any of the patterns in the book to suit your own child's measurements, and how to choose the most appropriate clothing to use rather than convert, taking into account the young wearer's safety. The projects are complemented by gorgeous photographs of the author's own children and their friends modelling the restyled outfits, and by Linnea's extra hints and tips for making the most of your well-worn items.

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Get started and learn the basics with this miniature, no-nonsense guide to macrame!

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Everybody loves flowers, and here are 100 beautiful blooms for you to draw! Whether you prefer the understated beauty of a simple daisy or the garish good looks of a flamingo lily, you're bound to discover a flower in this book that you will find irresistible – and you will just want to pick up your pencil and start drawing! There are everyday garden blooms such as roses and tulips, delicate wild varieties such as primroses and bluebells, and a whole range of exotics, too, if you want to try something a bit different. Each flower is broken down into six simple stages that lead you effortlessly through to the finished drawing. There are no written instructions to follow – just basic shapes and pencil strokes. Even if you’ve never drawn anything before, you will be amazed at how quickly you will achieve incredibly impressive drawings. Every project also shows two finished examples of the flower – one shaded with pencil and the other with colour. This is the perfect book for budding artists yearning to draw their favourite posies, or the experienced artist looking for a variety of subjects to inspire. The material in this book is taken from the following books in Search Press's successful How to Draw series: Flowers, Garden Flowers, Wild Flowers, Exotic Flowers.

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A new, larger format edition of the classic reference work on goldwork embroidery by the Royal School of Needlework (RSN). The Essential Stitch Guides provide a set of definitive works on traditional embroidery techniques. Written by Helen McCook, Graduate Apprentice, Tutor and renowned embroiderer, this book begins with an historical account of goldwork, then moves on to the materials and equipment required; framing up, how to transfer a design on to fabric and how to start and finish a thread. The main section of the book then covers all of the essential stitches and techniques through clear, step-by-step diagrams and photographs, coupled with beautiful, close-up photographs showing how then can be used in a finished piece. All the key traditional techniques are included: couching, bricking, basketweave, cutwork, spangles, s-ing, pearl purl, plate and kid. The book ends with beautiful and exquisitely-worked examples of how the techniques can be combined in finished pieces. The RSN teaches hand embroidery to the highest standard and is well respected all over the world. It not only upholds the traditions of English embroidery that go back many hundreds of years, but is constantly taking embroidery forward in new and innovative ways.

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This easy-to-follow course in lace knitting will transform the complete beginner into an accomplished expert. Progress from simple eyelet lace to openwork stitching and intricate edgings as you develop the skill and confidence to create beautiful pieces of lace filigree. With step-by-step tuition and a preliminary section explaining all the essentials – yarn, needles, tension, techniques and how to read knitting charts – this guide could not be more accessible. All of the stitch swatches are clearly photographed and each stitch is provided in both written and chart form, so even novices can start right away. There are also 13 lovely projects to practise your newly acquired skills, including a baby blanket and slippers, an evening bag, a shrug and a jewellery purse. Each stitch pattern is illustrated in both fine and thicker yarns, so you can choose the look of the finished item. The Very Easy Guide to Lace Knitting will give you the skills and the inspiration to get started. This is a reissue of the previously best-selling published book The Very Easy Guide to Lace Knitting (9781844486519).

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Welcome to the wonderful world of Maddie! Inspired by the Half Yard™ Sewing Club's favourite heirloom rag doll, join a brand-new Maddie on her adventures throughout the seasons. Beginning with advice on all the fabrics and tools your need, along with handy techniques, learn how to make your 66cm (26in) tall Maddie doll and her fun wardrobe. Choose from dresses, tops, jeans, shoes and more; the instructions for each are explained clearly with step-by-step photos and tips. And who can forget Maddie's cuddly (and mischievous) dog, Mo... learn how to make him too! Every item in Maddie's wardrobe, and Maddie herself, has a pattern printed at full-size on template sheets stored in an envelope at the back of the book. Each garment's template has multiple variations – from adding collars to turning trousers into shorts – so you can tailor the garments to your own Maddie! Make a Maddie for your family, so that you – or your giftee – can love her for years to come.

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Enter a stitching world of new shapes and new possibilities with over 150 unique knitted and crocheted block shapes, beautifully presented in a tempting directory of different shapes, motifs and textures. Create stunning blankets, afghans and throws with these flexible blocks, and discover pretty little joining blocks and edging ideas. Choose from simple hearts and flowers to swirls, shells, snowflakes and much more. Heather Lodinsky's geometric, circular and irregular shapes come with a mix-and-match suggestion for how the block shapes might be combined. There are patterns and charts at the back of the book and practical advice on planning and executing your own designs. With clear, easy-to-follow instructions and diagrams, and functional ideas incorporating the blocks in scarves, bags and afghans, have fun exploring the many design possibilities in the projects section. Previously published as 150 Blocks to Knit & Crochet (ISBN: 9781844486182).

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Who 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.

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Knit 20 adorable hats to keep your little one cozy. This cute and colourful book contains a range of hats, with design styles that will appeal to every knitter. The 20 designs fall into four categories: basic beanies; animal hats; food hats and quirky hats. So whether you fancy making a simple beanie, a cute panda, fox or bee, a colourful watermelon or strawberry, or a quirky Christmas pudding, this book has it all. Choose from hats with ears, stripes, pompoms, tassels, topknots and more – all the techniques are included. Clear instructions and simple patterns. As babies vary so much in size, each design can be made in three sizes: 0–6 months, 6–12 months, 12–24 months. The yarns recommended are all hypoallergenic, washable and with some elasticity, to help the hats keep their shape. The hats use relatively small amounts of yarn so are ideal for quick, portable projects. Perfect for thoughtful gifts. Hats are a timeless must-have baby item, especially if you have knitted them yourself! This is a fantastic little project book in a handy pocket-size format, so you can even knit on the go!

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In this fun and practical introduction to hand and machine appliqué, well-known TV personality Sarah Payne leads you through a series of techniques to build up your skills. Each chapter includes a number of different-sized step-by-step projects, including a height chart, pet feeding mat, quilt, cushions, baby play mat, bags, wall art and placemats. Sarah discusses both hand-sewn and machine-sewn appliqué, as well as raw-edged and turned-edge appliqué. She also includes information on feature stitching, using paper templates, layering, quilting and binding. There are templates to trace supplied for the projects. Jam-packed with information and colourful projects, jump in and start learning all things appliqué. Put your skills into practice and at the same time create beautiful projects to keep or give as gifts.

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Discover the world of punch needle embroidery with this modern take on a traditional craft. It’s easy to master as you’re guided by clear step-by-step instructions, patterns and beautiful photography. Faustine and Cathy will teach you all you need to know about punch needling through the creation of 20 adorable, contemporary animal motifs including a folk-inspired leopard, a delightful rabbit, a llama and a cunning fox. Each project is accompanied by a list of all the tools and materials, including the wool colours and stitches, you'll need to bring your adorable new friends to life. The reuseable, iron-on templates make taking up this popular craft even easier! Grab some yarn and a punch needle, and relax with this fun, simple craft as you create a whole menagerie of punch needle friends.

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CREATE BEAUTIFUL MANGA PEOPLE AND ANIMALS IN 10 SIMPLE STEPS If you love drawing manga but don’t know where to start, this is the book for you! 10 Step Drawing: Manga will help you turn simple shapes into beautiful manga drawings in just 10 steps. Create over 30 different portraits, from cute chibi people to a multicoloured manga unicorn, by following the instructions inside. Learning to draw has never been so simple!

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Learn to draw 50 inspirational and important figures from Einstein to Beyonce in the wonderfully popular chibi style.

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Paint with best-selling author Charles Evans as he introduces the System3 range of inks and acrylics. System3 is a well-established brand of inks, acrylics and heavy body paints manufactured by Daler-Rowney; it is readily available worldwide, including the US and UK, and is economically priced, making it affordable by students as well as amateur artists. Painting with System3 aims to inspire, instruct and encourage an experimental approach to painting with this versatile range of media, taking it out of the classroom and into the field. Daler-Rowney ambassador Charles Evans teaches the reader about the variety of products in the range and explores creative and innovative ways of using – and combining – the inks and paints on different supports, including watercolour paper, canvas and wood. As the first book to showcase the properties and versatility of System3 inks and acrylics, Painting with System3 takes a highly practical approach to introducing the potential of the range, with exercises and 13 step-by-step projects to help the reader carry forward the skills they have acquired. Charles also features his artwork using the media, as further inspiration on what can be achieved with System3.

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Discover how to bring polar animals to life in 6 easy steps. Award-winning artist Jonathan Newey teaches you to transform simple shapes into majestic polar bears, snowy reindeer and awe-inspiring whales. Choose from an albatross mid-flight, a tottering penguin chick and much more. There are 25 different animals to create, in a variety of poses and styles. Each project starts with a few basic outlines and progresses into a finished tonal drawing, and a final coloured version shows you how to develop your drawing even further. Perfect for beginners, as well as budding artists, you’ll be amazed how easily you too can draw polar animals with this inspiring guide.

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If you love drawing people but don’t know where to start, this is the book for you! 10 Step Drawing: People will help you turn simple lines or shapes into lifelike images in just 10 steps. There are instructions for the individual elements of the face and body, as well as complete faces and people. With advice on basic equipment and colouring techniques, each drawing includes colour palettes so readers can easily find the right tones for their drawing. Learning to draw has never been so simple!

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In this book, learn the basic know-how and techniques for traditional calligraphy through four classic alphabets: Foundational Hand, Italic Hand, Uncial Hand and one form of Gothic Hand. These styles are essential first steps into the world of lettering, and will form invaluable grounding in your calligraphic journey. Become familiar with what pens and papers to use, pen angles, pen nibs, key terminology, stroke directions, letter spacing and more to achieve classic letter design – all within a handy, pocket-sized book. Originally produced by William Mitchell, manufacturers of premium calligraphy products.

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Artists wishing to capture the excitement and power of the sea in their artwork will find this book invaluable. Judith Yates uses a mix of traditional and more experimental techniques to create her dynamic seascapes, all of which are explained in clear, step-by-step sequences, annotated examples and Judith's stunning artworks. With sections on colour, composition, and creating atmosphere, this book is a comprehensive approach to painting the tumultuous ocean with a mix of acrylics, watercolour and acrylic inks. Judith's varied, mixed media approach gives this book wide appeal to watercolour and acrylics artists looking to expand their creative horizons. This book demystifies all aspects of painting the sea, including details on the form and anatomy of a wave; bringing light, atmosphere and drama into the sky; and choosing colours to create a mood. It also provides a great source of inspiration to artists who are drawn to the sea as a subject for their own paintings.

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Norwegian knitting is loved for its combination of practicality, texture and traditional patterning. In this brand-new book by best-selling knitwear designer and author Monica Russel, there are 15 Nordic-inspired clothes and accessories for children that blend classic Scandi style with fun and functionality! Beginning with a crash course in essential knitting techniques, create stylish hats, mittens, sweaters, dresses and even a loveable bear in a distinctive Fair Isle design. The garments are designed for children aged 3 to 9 years, with styles ranging from beautifully subtle and textured knits to patterned creations with motifs inspired by classic Nordic knitwear and the Scandinavian landscape. There are numerous photos of the finished designs, clear written instructions, and every knitted item with colourwork includes a chart with corresponding written instructions. Whether you're knitting for a special occasion, a holiday, or for day-to-day wear, these are fuss-free patterns that will have you knitting, classic-mod makes for your little one all year round.

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This delightful book provides 20 easy yet imaginative designs covering a range of animals such as cats, dogs, sheep, a hippopotamus, a fox, giraffes and an alpaca, and includes three-dimensional designs. The projects are cute and whimsical, and quick to make. They will appeal to experienced quillers looking for new ideas and inspiration, as well as beginners who wish to take up this delightful craft. The completed designs can be used to decorate greetings cards, picture frames, invitations, and many other stationery and household items.

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Home accents made with beautiful natural wood are hugely popular and add impact to any room of the house. But the simple elegance of a birch table lamp or a driftwood sculpture can carry an eye-watering price tag. Simply Wood shows you how to make beautiful and practical objects using found wood that doesn't cost the earth. All you need are basic skills such as measuring, sawing, drilling and gluing to achieve each of the 20 projects. Choose from lighting and shelving to wreaths and wall hangings, and simply follow the clear, step-by-step instructions to make your chosen item. Whether you are drawn to delicate twigs, graceful branches, sturdy logs, silvered driftwood or weathered boards, there is a project for you - be inspired, get creative and bring the beauty of nature into your home.

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The ultimate compendium of cake decorating techniques for avid amateur bakers everywhere. Cake Decorating for Beginners combines nuggets of advice and popular projects from books in the Modern Cake Decorator series. You are taken through the whole process from the initial bake to icing your cake with those final embellishments. Expert cake decorators Christine Flinn, Sandra Monger and Stephanie Weightman pool their knowledge to help you with stencilling, using cutters, piping and painting.

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Immerse yourself in the ancient craft of working with fresh, green wood. Expert authors Sjors van der Meer and Job Suijker introduce you to the traditional skills of green woodworking. Learn about the qualities of wood; how to cut and shape it; how to craft your own tools such as a shaving horse, wooden club, chopping block and saw horse, and then how to use them to make spoons, spatulas, stools and chairs. As well as teaching you new skills, this inspiring book will show you how working in natural surroundings, with natural materials, can create an overwhelming sense of well-being and enhance your awareness of the environment. This stunning, inspirational book has forewords written by Mike Abbott and Otto Koedijk.

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Enter into the whimsical, crocheted world of Eleonore & Maurice, a talented designer who blends pastel yarns with delicate floral fabric to make truly adorable amigurumi creations: plush animals with little accessories, as well as sweet cushions. The combination of the calming pastel cotton yarn and the delicate floral designs give beautiful results. These cute creations include a cat cushion, a bird family, a hedgehog, a rabbit and a reindeer. The crochet patterns are clear and easy to follow and the sewing element is minimal, including items such as fabric bows, belts, ears, tails and collars. Make them for yourself or as gifts for family and friends. Everyone is sure to love these beautiful crocheted creatures. The soft colours and splashes of floral fabric make them perfect companions that children will love.

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On trend watercolour painting for beginners! Influenced by the japanese art of watercolour painting called 'Etegami', author Lena Yokota-Barth starts with what you will need by way of materials, moving on to applying and mixing colour. There are then fifty motifs to choose from, all divided into levels of difficulty. For those new to watercolour painting, this book offers an easy introduction. All fifty motifs can be painted in five steps, which are all detailed clearly for a striking end result. Among the motifs are animals such as flamingos and llamas, popular plants, and fun-to-paint fruits, such as strawberries and watermelons. The basics of watercolour painting are presented in an easily understandable fashion, and the fifty motifs will give rise to limitless possibilities for designing posters, greetings cards, journal covers or even thoughtful, framed gifts.

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Ensure your garden looks stunning come rain or shine with this inspirational new book from Debbie Shore. Using easy-to-follow photography and simple instructions Debbie shows you how to sew 22 beautiful items for outdoor living. Sew decorative accessories for the patio, such as seat cushions and bunting, create practical items such as a BBQ tool roll and picnic caddy, and even make a kids' teepee! Perfect for people of all abilities who love sewing and enjoy their gardens, or who want to make a gift for someone who does.

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Frame it, wear it, look awesome. Stitch a multitude of embroidery designs - all within a cute and tiny mini hoop! Following the simple instructions inside, learn how to create over 60 tiny masterpieces in a wide range of styles by original mini embroidery hoop creator Sonia Lyne, founder of Dandelyne (TM). Using these little hoops as your canvas learn to stitch it all, from classic embroidered flowers and applique animals through to abstract stitch 'n' paint shapes and tasselled creatures. Then, proudly frame and decorate your stitched art and turn them into eye-catching jewellery pieces, or display them in your home for ultimate hoopy gorgeousness. Beginner embroiderers and experienced stitchers short on time will love the small size of these hoops, and almost all the designs can be made in a weekend. Throughout the book, Sonia gives you tips on colour and stitch variations, as well as alternative hoop shapes you could use from her mini hoop packs, inspiring you to make these little designs truly your own! Whatever your style, there's a treasure trove of stunning designs and motifs to stitch and adapt, encouraging you to grow confident in building (and feeling proud of) your own artistic juices. So get ready to be motivated, excited and inspired to stitch up a sea of mini masterpieces that you'll love to show off and gift to a loved one (or make for yours truly...).

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Inside, discover all the major pottery techniques used the world over, from time-honoured traditional methods to exciting new developments. These include coiling, combing, resist decoration, sgraffito, slabbing and texturing clay. Once you've learnt these essential techniques, put your new skills into practice with a wealth of inspirational examples, ranging from bowls, vases and cups, to plaques, spheres and sculpture. In addition, advice on materials and equipment is provided to help you on your crafting journey, including kilns, glazes, moulds and more. Finally, a gallery of stunning images is featured throughout the book, demonstrating an array of beautiful designs by established potters and ceramicists that will inspire both beginner and experienced potters.

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Popular author Corinne Lapierre brings us another delightful book of beautiful felt creatures. Fabulous Felt Animals includes families of deer, raccoons, foxes, rabbits, bears and mice, all brought to life with cute outfits and fun accessories. The animals are made using ready-made craft felt that is easy to work with and soft to the touch, and are hand-sewn using simple stitches. Clear step-by-step instructions are provided for every project, accompanied by gorgeous photographs and Corinne's delightful illustrations, and there are same-size templates at the back of the book for all the animals, clothes and accessories.

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This gorgeous book brings together 100 of the best winter knits from best-selling author and knitting designer, Monica Russel. Previously published in the 20 to Make series, these fabulous designs are quick and easy to make, and include scarves, wrist warmers, hats, boot cuffs, headbands and snoods. With designs for men, women and children in a range of colours and styles, there is something for everyone in this valuable knitting resource. Using material from the following 20 to Make titles: Knitted Boot Cuffs, Easy Knitted Scarves, Knitted Wrist Warmers, Knitted Headbands, Knitted Snoods and Knitted Hats - this book provides a wealth of inspiration with projects that will become an essential part of your winter wardrobe!

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'If you thought oil pastels were just something for children, prepare to think again.' The Artist '...look on in wonder as Tim shows you how you can use this neglected but simple medium to create real works of art...Just open this book at random and you'll be hooked.' Paint Magazine Learn to paint with oil pastels in this colourful, accessible book for newcomers to the medium. Tim Fisher demonstrates how to use the oil pastels on their own, or in conjunction with acrylic inks and paints, and watercolours, on a variety of surfaces, to create beautiful paintings that will maintain their vibrancy for years to come. The Beginner's Guide to Painting with Oil Pastels features six full step-by-step projects covering a variety of subjects including animal portraits, street scenes, boats and harbours, buildings and glorious landscapes. Tim introduces the reader to mark-making with oil pastels, explains the history of the medium, and how to protect and keep an oil pastel painting once it is complete.

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200 Fun Things to Knit contains an irresistible collection of small and cute knitting projects* for all levels of ability. Containing a mix of beautiful, three-dimensional projects inspired by nature - flowers, birds, bugs, leaves and even creatures from the sea - as well as a collection of charming floral square motifs, the reader will have no trouble finding something to inspire them. Ideal for using up scraps of yarn, the 200 mini projects are quick and easy to make, both at home and on the go. Compiled by top knitting designers, they make stylish embellishments to give or to keep. *Projects have appeared in previous publications.

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From world-renowned artist Giovanni Civardi, this highly practical guide uses the traditional grid technique to make the process of creating a characterful portrait drawing both simple and accessible. Starting from a photograph, Civardi shows you how to create an accurate pencil sketch of the subject by overlaying a grid and transferring the image one square at a time. The drawing is then rendered in easy stages to create a finished portrait. Even the most complex of subjects can be broken down into easy steps using this method, and by following the numerous, step-by-step exercises the reader will very soon be producing highly detailed drawings based on photographs of their own.

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If you think you know what cross stitch is, look again! Jamie Chalmers, aka Mr X Stitch, shows you how to cross stitch using simple step-by-step instructions and also takes you to the frontiers of cross stitch design. The book is aimed at stitchers of all abilities, from absolute beginners looking to learn a new craft to embroiderers and cross stitchers who want to do something different in cross stitching. For many, cross stitch conjures up images of cute kittens and country cottages, but this book shows people that there’s a different side to cross stitching – that it’s an art in its own right, and will encourage them to be a little braver with their art. Jamie’s writing style is fun, entertaining and highly inspirational. The book aims to appeal to men as well as women, encouraging one and all to take up the ancient craft. It teaches the basics of cross stitching, including information on materials, tools, techniques and colour blending, but also puts Jamie’s own individual spin on it, with urban flavours and the introduction of different materials such as glow-in-the-dark threads and stitching on metal. As well as providing exciting designs to stitch, there is guidance on how to create cross stitch designs of your own, for example by using photographs and other images for reference. Jamie also showcases the work of other contemporary cross stitchers who are pushing the boundaries of their craft, and introduces more than 20 stunning cutting-edge projects to make, showing that beauty, innovation and 'craftivism' are alive and kicking in this inspirational book.

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English Paper Piecing (EPP) is a popular and easy method of creating beautiful, hand-sewn patchwork designs. The fabric is cut and folded over a paper template and the resulting shapes are stitched together by hand, making it ideal for sewing whether you're on the move, or at home. Successful and established author Alistair Macdonald provides 18 fabulous projects, including a lovely baby’s play mat, a stylish gentleman's scarf, a useful hobby bag, a tea cosy, a gorgeous tote bag and a make-up purse. All the patchwork is done by hand sewing, using the English Paper Piecing method in fresh, bright cottons and with clear, step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs. There is some machine sewing for putting projects together, but you can hand sew if you prefer. Actual size templates for every project are included.

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In 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.

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This first book in the new series will get readers started in making beaded jewellery, similar to the hugely popular absolute beginner’s course that Carolyn teaches. It introduces people who have no experience whatsoever, and who may never even have tried a craft before, to the basic techniques, tools and materials involved through simple, inspiring projects. It includes a pictorial 'Jargon buster' glossary of the essential tools and materials used (with both UK and US terms); an index; and 12 step-by-step projects through which people can learn the basic techniques while creating beautiful pieces of jewellery they would want to wear. Clear instructions, step-by-step photography and diagrams where necessary create a user-friendly guide. Projects will take no more than a couple of hours, making them achievable in an evening. Learn how to use memory wire, beading wire, stretchy cord, chain and jump rings to make desirable jewellery pieces. Design tips throughout will encourage beginners to get creative and become jewellery designers in their own right.

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Sewing superstar, Debbie Shore, has designed 31 gorgeous home accessories that can be made using half a yard of fabric or less. The projects are divided into accessories for the Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen and Bedroom, with a special section for picnics. Clear step by step instructions and beautiful photography make it easy to create desirable projects from a tablecloth, magazine box, chair slip, napkins, napkin ring, oven mitt, apron, tea cosy, cafe curtain and jewellery roll, to a picnic place mat, bread bag and bottle bag, and more. Debbie's flair for design and eye for fresh, beautiful fabrics make these home accessories that readers will make to run up for themselves.

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Creativity, along with imaginative use of the popular watercolour medium, suffuses Jane Betteridge's work. In this, her first book, she shares her painting techniques and methods with you. Learn to use watercolour paints in unusual and surprising ways to create works bursting with vibrancy and beauty.

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Beanies are a must-have for any season. Whether sporty, glamorous, trendy or funky there’s a style here to suit everyone. The best thing about crocheted beanies is their versatility and that is why they are so much fun to design and create. There are 20 crochet hat projects featured in this book, with designs suitable for beginners as well as experienced crocheters. You'll find a helpful step-by-step techniques section at the front of the book with explanatory diagrams and a guide to yarn lengths. Each project is accompanied by clear instructions and a list of the materials and equipment you'll need alongside a beautiful colour photograph of the finished beanie.

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