Search results for ""Search Press""

Accomplished artist Jean Haines shares her passion for watercolours in this wonderfully practical book. Known for her exciting techniques and love of colour, Jean takes you on an inspirational painting journey on which you’ll encounter, amongst other things, magical watercolour flow, glorious washes, sunbursts, and a magnificent ‘hotting it up’ finale. With her simple exercises, clear advice and easy-to-follow projects, Jean pushes the boundaries and will alter the way you think about watercolours and painting for ever. With a selection of popular subjects, including animals, landscapes, buildings,flowers and people, there is something for everyone here, whatever their artistic ability.

Read more less

Knit 21 timeless Nordic-style sweaters, rompers, dresses and tees with these gorgeouspatterns for children aged 0-6 years.

Read more less

Unlock the world of contemporary watercolour bird painting with popular artist and dynamic teacher, Tom Shepherd. Free Daniel Smith paint dot card included to get you started immediately!

Read more less

This new edition of a popular title breathes fresh fire into the fantastical world of dragons. It features five step-by-step projects - including a storm-heralding monster, a fire-breathing salamander and an ancient ice dragon - all with full-size outlines, plus one bonus outline for you to experiment with. With a brief introduction to using acrylic paints and transferring the outlines, this book will quickly immerse you in this fearsome fantasy world. The A3 (11.7 x 16.5in/ 297 x 420mm) outlines are provided on gatefold paper at the back of the book. This book was originally published as Ready to Paint Dragons (9781844486328), 2011.

Read more less

Learn all the tricks you need to bring your manga characters to life!

Read more less

'There are few problems that are insurmountable. If something is broken more often than not it can be repaired. A can-do attitude is essential, or at least a willingness to have a go.' So writes award-winning silversmith and BBC television personality Brenton West in his introduction to this, his first book. Brimming with in-depth technical information on tools, techniques and metals, Brenton explains how to diagnose the problem, apply the repair, and make good almost any precious items. Aimed at anyone who wants to learn the skills necessary to fix, repair or improve household items – whether for sentimental reasons or to turn a profit – the book covers more than a dozen common case studies for you to follow. Ranging from simple to more complex repairs, Brenton tackles re-plating silver, correctly securing metal to glass, polishing, soldering, re-finishing and more on a variety of antique items including table lamps, inkwells, cocktail shakers and hand mirrors. The case studies are fully illustrated so you can see what's happening at each stage, while handy boxes expand on the specific example, giving Brenton's expert advice on how to apply the skills learned to your own particular repairs. After all, no two objects break in quite the same way: the book will teach you how to adapt. Dotted throughout are Brenton's own hard-won secret tips and techniques, so you can share and benefit from his experience. Brenton talks you through how different metals and materials can be properly identified and safely repaired. The book also includes information on hallmarking, allowing you to assess those second-hand finds accurately. Finally, an extensive tool directory and techniques section give no-nonsense and in-depth advice on the best tools for the job.

Read more less

A gorgeous collection of 40 cute crochet blocks to make into decorations, homewares, blankets and more! From the author of Modern Granny Squares and Block by Block Crochet. Create 40 beginner-friendly granny squares featuring all your favourite animal friends. Bring them to life with fluffy fur, flowing manes, waggy tails and twisting tentacles and then build the squares up into gorgeous items for your home, your friends and your family! Organised into two parts the book begins with animal block pattern designs, including beautiful projects to make. The following techniques section contains all you need to know to crochet animal blocks. Each design and technique is clearly demonstrated with photography and illustrations. You'll find animal block pattern designs combining different crochet stitches and techniques to create cute animal blocks for blankets and more. Every block has a written pattern with corresponding charts, a skill level guide, clear photography and ideas for mixing and matching. The book also includes 4 gorgeous projects to make with the squares – including a unicorn wall hanging and an under-the-sea baby book.

Read more less

Learn to paint 6 beautiful see-through flowers in watercolour.

Read more less

International award-winning illustrator Donovan Bixley brings his unique style to teaching kids (and grown-ups!) to draw. In a book that spans all levels of skill, Donovan takes his readers through warm-up and imagination exercises, before moving onto mark making and inspirational shapes. Readers are then guided through the processes of drawing animals, faces and characters, ahead of working on details like perspective, shading, shadows and composition. Donovan even teaches you how to draw a unicorn. Donovan makes learning fun, the book is bursting with his sense of humour, which makes every page enjoyable to follow and easy to remember. This book is full of tips and tricks for budding artists of all levels to come back to again and again.

Read more less

Are you a keen knitter but have never tried colourwork (jacquard)? With the help of author Anna Dervout, you'll soon have colourwork spilling off your needles to create delicate yet modern knitwear designs for women and children. Colourwork refers to a technique used to knit patterns in multiple colours; it requires the simultaneous use of several different colours in the same row. An understanding of colourwork paves the way to integrating a vast range of knitting motifs: horizontal, vertical, geometric or stand-alone. In Colourwork in the Round, discover different colourwork techniques using circular needles, which are becoming increasingly popular among knitting enthusiasts due to their advantages over traditional double-pointed needles; they are more comfortable, portable and versatile to use. You’ll learn how to choose your yarns, manage tension, knit in the round, and integrate a seamless change of colour into your work. Colourwork in the Round does the hard work of demystifying this traditional knitting technique through clear, illustrated step-by-step instructions that guide you through the learning process, and a detailed chapter on how to read a colourwork pattern chart. Then, there's the chance to put your knowledge into practice to create five gorgeous garments, each suited to a different skill level: create a hat, a sweater or a cardigan and see all your hard work pay off! Anna’s patterns are designed to be, above all, relaxing for the knitter; they are written in a clear manner, accessible to beginners, and are also size-inclusive: patterns cater for children from 3 months to 12 years, and women from UK sizes 8 to 22 (US 4 to 18; EU 36/40 to 40/54).

Read more less

Now in a convenient paperback edition, this is a bag-making series with a difference: 15 stylish occasion bag designs, two handy plastic templates and endless variations! Focusing on occasion bags, this beautifully presented, 96-page book contains easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions for a wide variety of bags in a range of fabrics and styles. Included are two easy-to-use templates: durable, reusable, wipe-clean and perfect for fussy cutting, they make building a bag even easier. The 15 occasion bags are each made using different techniques, pockets, straps and fastenings to create 15 very different results. The templates can also be used for your own further design variations, and Debbie gives advice on how to adapt and create your own unique designs. Each project in the book is explained using Debbie's friendly style and clear step-by-step photography, and there is also a comprehensive techniques section and a guide to using the templates.

Read more less

Master manga with 100 creatures, characters and super-cute chibis. This is the ultimate introduction to drawing manga: 100 simple, step-by-step drawings of everything from superheroes to super-cute pets. Practise drawing different hair and facial expressions then create your own elaborate and colourful manga characters; draw up a battling universe of manga superheroes and villains; start your own collection of super-cute chibi chums. Whether you're looking for inspiration or just getting started, professional comic creator Yishan Li will be your guide. Every project is broken down into a handful of simple stages that lead you effortlessly through to the final coloured 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 your own cute and characterful manga drawings! This title contains content from two books in the How to Draw series: Manga Heroes and Manga Faces.

Read more less

Rich in texture and vibrant in colour, Emily Botelho's stunning abstract embroideries are works of art in thread and have earned her a worldwide following. In this, her first book, she showcases 12 beautiful projects inspired by three distinct environments: coastal, mountain and urban. She leads the reader through her unique creative process, from finding inspiration and creating bespoke fabric backgrounds to embellishing each embroidery with a diverse range of stitches, beads and found items that capture a moment in time. Her use of intuitive, slow stitching and a vibrant palette, taken from sources as diverse as mossy rocks or peeling paint, make each of her pieces completely unique. Filled with sumptuous photographs, creative insights and helpful advice, along with an additional gallery section, this book will inspire creative embroiderers of all abilities. Emily (@salt_stitches) is a firm believer that you don't need to go far to be inspired and she encourages you to engage in close observation of the natural world on your doorstep, whether you have stitched before or not. Due to the abstract nature of the craft, there are no patterns to follow or step-by-step instructions. You decide when a piece is finished, which gives you complete freedom to explore the textures that you're working with. Every single piece will be unique, and that's the beauty of it! A range of Emily's downloadable textures available on Bookmarked Hub: www.bookmarkedhub.com

Read more less

Enter the dragon's den and draw every claw, tooth and scale! From fire-breathing monsters to majestic sea serpents, Paul Bryn Davies' boundless imagination will inspire you to draw like you never have before. Start off simple with playful hatchlings and soon you'll be illustrating battling giants and gnarled wyverns. There are 100 deadly dragons to choose from, and every project is broken down into a handful of simple stages that lead you effortlessly through to the finished coloured drawing. There are no written instructions to follow – just basic shapes and pencil strokes. You'll be amazed at how easily you can create stunning, detailed drawings roaring with character! This is the perfect book for budding artists who want to create their own mythical masterpiece.

Read more less

Join the roving Rabbit family, Ramona, Raymond, Rachel and Rafael, on their outbound adventures! Pack your suitcase full of crochet hooks and yarn, and head for the snowy mountains of the North, then the balmy beaches of the South. Crochet the whole adorable Rabbit family as well as their summer and winter wardrobes. Send the Rabbits on their travels with their cases brimming with everything they need, from bikinis and beach balls to cozy scarves – even skis and ski poles! Josefine Bjørn Knudsen, author of Amigurumi Farmyard, explains all the crochet techniques and stitches you need with detailed drawings and instructions, so that everyone can join in the kawaii bunny fun, from amigurumi amateurs to experienced crocheters. Follow Josefine on Instagram: @minkreativeverden

Read more less

Written and illustrated by manga artist Keith Sparrow, this comprehensive, inspiring guide starts with an introduction to manga basics, showing you how to create the ideal workspace and how to overcome fear of a blank page. Discover how to draw all the elements you'll need, from hands and eyes to perspective, light and shade, as well as how to create show-stopping drama, movement and atmosphere. The book then guides you step by step through 16 exciting, action-packed pin-ups - allowing you to explore a range of poses, characters and perspectives. Follow the step by steps and the basic techniques to build up your confidence and before you know it you'll be creating your own action drawings and characters! A sword-wielding heroine takes on a hulking guard; and a mecha warrior engages in flying combat! This revamped edition is reproduced at a larger size so every step is as clear and dynamic as it can be.

Read more less

Be amazed at how easily you can paint beautiful flowers in simple steps. Artist Becky Amelia shares her easy-to-follow approach to painting, with a range of beautiful flowers in her distinctive and contemporary style. Using only a few brushes and a small collection of watercolour and gouache paints, this book will inspire you with 25 stunning step-by-step projects to paint, including single flowers, leaves, wreaths and bouquets. Learn to paint sunflowers, tulips, poppies, lilies, wildflower arrangements, dried flowers and many more pretty stem arrangements. Feel inspired by Becky's intricate and delicate style and create beautiful floral paintings that you too could turn into gorgeous notecards, stationery, gifts or to keep as lovely, framed paintings.

Read more less

New baby on the way? What better time than to crochet a beautiful matching gift set for the precious little one? Sue Rawlinson of 'Sweetpea Family Crochet' has designed six beautiful coordinated bundles for every occasion, from bringing the baby home to that all-important first outing. Each bundle includes a baby blanket plus two or three other gifts such as a soft bunny to cuddle, a pretty garland to hang, a baby bear comforter, a hot water bottle cosy and snuggly mittens for a newborn or age 0–3 months. There are 25 projects in total, so you are spoilt for choice, and each gift set is worked in coordinated colourways and styles. Along with illustrated crochet techniques, there are also suggestions for gifting and finishing touches such as crocheted ties to keep your blanket folded when you give it as a gift. The blanket ties can be embellished with mini pompoms, crochet hearts or crochet flowers. Many of the smaller projects such as cosy beanie hats can be finished in an evening, so they are satisfying to make and even more satisfying to give away. With pastel shades, simple designs and soft textures, parents, grandparents and friends will be reaching for their crochet hooks to make gorgeous handmade items for their bundle of joy.

Read more less

'This book will provide you with enough inspiration to keep you sewing all through the year.'Popular PatchworkMake 37 gorgeous Scandi-style felt decorations, embellished with simple but stunning embroidery stitches.

Read more less

The perfect companion for anyone new to machine sewing, or looking for a little extra guidance, this book is packed with friendly advice, stylish projects and expert sewing tips. Sewing machine guru and popular author, Wendy Gardiner, brings you this invaluable guide to getting up and running with a sewing machine. She includes all the basics, including machine anatomy, how to thread up, and how to check stitching and tension. Once you have built up your skills, there are 12 great projects to make, including: a patchwork placemat, a drawstring bag, an appliquéd pillow, a clutch bag, a tablet cover, tab top curtains, a quilted pot holder, and a notebook cover – there is something for everyone. Each project is designed to teach techniques such as sewing seams, adding buttonholes and zips, blind hems, quilting, free-motion embroidery, using an alphabet and making pleats, trims and pockets. There is also a glossary of all the important terms, and an excellent trouble-shooting guide. Revised, updated and expanded edition of The Very Easy Guide to Using Your Sewing Machine (9781844488285).

Read more less

Chinese brush painting is a traditional style of painting that has evolved over many centuries. Artists use ink and colour pigments to paint onto rice paper or silk. An important characteristic of this kind of painting is holding and directing the brush in the right way to produce strokes that are delicate and refined. The four co-authors of this book – Sun Chenggang, Ning Xiangying, Ning Jialu and Miao Hongbo – are particularly gifted proponents of this style, which has connections with traditional calligraphy. Chinese brush painting typically includes themes such as birds, plants and flowers, landscapes, fruit and vegetables and fish. This book explores these themes through the four seasons, with the peony depicted in spring, the lotus flower in summer, the vegetable harvest in autumn and the bamboo bud in winter. Many of the subjects are symbolic and have connotations of good fortune, auspiciousness, good health, a long life, a good harvest, a flourishing family, wealth – even immortality! Explained in the introduction to each project, the symbolism is followed by clear, step-by-step instructions and illustrations. There is a short section at the beginning of the book describing tools, materials and techniques to help readers achieve the almost ethereal beauty and delicacy of this style of painting.

Read more less

A fun how-to sketchbook for drawing portraits and selfies! Sketch Your Best Self is a quirky guide to drawing all kinds of faces – starting with your own! The book is split into four sections, covering the basics, how to draw faces, building bodies and selfie style. This comprises how to draw features, how to create different expressions, drawing bodies and limbs and lots of fun stuff including how to create a selfie in pop art style, full colour, monochrome and retro classics style. So pucker up for creating lips, decide if today is a good or bad hair day, practise some photobooth-style expressions, build your friends limb by limb, add some attitude, then try out the fun and whimsical drawing challenges with super fun pages based around Snapchat style filters. Don’t be left out – this beautiful book is fully inclusive and can be enjoyed by everyone!

Read more less

Learn everything you need to become a manga artist, with step-by-step instructions, exercises to develop your skills, and tips and tricks. With the interest in manga-style art now stronger than ever – its influence can be seen in films such as Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro by Studio Ghibli, amongst other movies – this is the perfect book to slipstream into manga drawing. Packed full of step-by-step sequences for face, body, and poses, you too can draw in the manga-art style. Learn how to draw figures in the characteristic style of your favourite characters by building a portfolio of drawings. At the end of each chapter is a series of practice exercises where you’re encouraged to trace or freehand draw subjects from earlier on. You’ll end up with a portfolio of sketches charting your artistic development. There is also an inspirational artists-in-residence section, where various artists share their manga-art secrets and showcase their own art.

Read more less

This indispensable book is your go-to guide to colour crochet. It's packed with inspiration, including a comprehensive guide to choosing and using colour, a collection of 40 vibrant colour stitch patterns, a guide to Intarsia, Mosaic, Fair Isle and tapestry crochet, the authors' own innovative 'smart' charting method, shared here for the first time, PLUS 10 wonderful crochet projects. The book will take readers step by step through the stitch patterns and techniques using photos, charts and accessible text. Helpful hints and tips are given throughout the book. The 10 stunning projects include a bag, hat, blankets, mittens and baskets, which will give readers the opportunity to practice their newly-acquired skills.

Read more less

This very easy guide opens up the wonderful world of twisted stitches to knitters of any ability, even complete beginners. It is an indispensable introduction to all kinds of stitches, from simple mock cables to intricate bobble-textured plaits, for both cable panels, accents, and all-over repeats. Learn the basic techniques and practise the stitches with clear instructions and step-by step photos – then use your skills to make 13 specially designed projects, from giant-cable throws that stitch up quickly on large needles, to snuggly hats and scarves and more adventurous accessories and home comforts. Each stitch pattern is featured in both written and chart form so you can get used to using either method when working from other commercial patterns. So whether you’re a knitting novice or a dab hand, cables have never been easier to make. This is a reissue of the previously best-selling published book The Very Easy Guide to Cable Knitting (9781844485314).

Read more less

Stylish retro travel posters bring to mind summer holidays, happiness and fun. Perennially popular as wall art, their strong designs and clean, flat colours are perfect for hobby artists to emulate. A complete guide to producing your own travel-poster art, this book includes guidance on composing a strong design, selecting colours to make sure your artwork pops, and adding lettering for a picture-perfect finished poster. Learn to create key poster elements such as clouds, skies, water and architecture, and discover how to add your own stylized lettering. There are six striking international projects to complete, or you can use your newfound skills to celebrate your own home town or treasured place. This book is packed with examples of Susie West’s inspiring artwork and a short history of travel posters. Since 2015, Susie West has been working her way around the UK recreating the upbeat, retro charm of travel posters in the modern world. This book shares her techniques and secrets for producing fun, charming artwork. Suitable for beginners, this is a great way into art for those who want to develop their skills, or for experienced artists wanting to try something new.

Read more less

The Royal School of Needlework teaches hand embroidery to the highest standard, developing techniques in new and innovative ways. Written by RSN apprentice and tutor Rachel Doyle, this book contains an extensive guide to canvaswork techniques, and includes complete information on the major stitches while offering stunning new design ideas. Here you will find diagonal stitches, horizontal and vertical stitches, raised, textured and filling stitches. Decorative effects are explored too, making this a fantastic source book and an invaluable reference for canvaswork stitches.

Read more less

This fourth book in the 'Kawaii' series is packed with adorable creatures from a range of cultures and mythologies. In the hands of author-teacher Angela Nguyen, even a three-headed dog is drawn in a style that will have any young artist cooing! This book teaches young readers what kawaii is all about and how to draw any mythical animal in an adorable style. There are clear step-by-step diagrams that are great for visual learners and make it super-easy to follow the instructions. The wonderful beasts are organized by the terrain in which they are found: air, water and land. There is also a section devoted to how young readers can create their own creatures: elephants with tiny wings, bunnies with unfeasibly large ears, and 'mash-ups' like giant bats. Angela has created 'feature spreads' showing imagined landscapes where some of these creatures might safely graze. Taking cuteness to the next level, this wonderful resource makes drawing instantly achievable and great fun!

Read more less

Jessica Palmer, illustrator and papercutter, has created 80 pages of enchanting hand-drawn pictures for you to colour and lose yourself in. The images all have a magical theme, and each one includes a hidden charm intricately worked into the design for readers to discover and colour in. The book will include designs that fit on a single page as well as those that extend across a double-page spread. Some of the designs fill the entire page and others sit within it. There is also a page on 'how to colour a gem'. The book uses high quality paper which means there is no show-through.

Read more less

Illustrator and papercutter, Jessica Palmer, has created 80 pages of enchanting hand-drawn pictures for you to colour and lose yourself in. The images all have a magical woodland theme, and each one includes a hidden jewel, intricately worked into the design, which will include rings, brooches, pendants, chains, bracelets and earrings featuring insects, animals and leafy patterns. The book includes designs that fit on a single page as well as those that extend across a double-page spread. Some of the designs fill the entire page and others sit within it. Others have space left for the reader to extend the design themselves.

Read more less

Unicorns have captured the imagination of people all over the world. These fantastical creatures have never been so popular, and well-known fantasy artist Sharon Hurst shows you how to bring them to life in this, her first book. Containing 26 different unicorns to draw in a range of poses and styles, each one is achieved in just 7 simple steps, making this book suitable for all ages and abilities. Each one starts with a few basic shapes and is developed into a finished tonal drawing, and a final coloured version shows you how to take your drawing even further. Choose from majestic winged creatures or playful young unicorns and discover how easily you too can create these amazing fantasy animals.

Read more less

Embroidery artist Hisako Nishisu invites you to try her new collection of elegant cross stitch designs, inspired by the beauty and simplicity of wildflowers and grasses. There are over 30 stunning motifs to choose from, so whether you admire the lily of the valley or the violet, or prefer to stitch the Japanese silverleaf, there is sure to be a project that will catch your eye. After a gallery of beautifully photographed embroideries, a cross stitch overview is provided outlining the tools, materials and techniques needed for completing these charming samplers. This is followed by a clear, full-page chart for each design. Once your floral sampler is finished, frame it and hang it for a beautiful addition to any room, or use the designs to add pretty motifs to your linens, clothing and accessories.

Read more less

Eggs aren’t just for breakfast! With a bit of imagination, they can also be transformed into beautiful decorative items and gifts. A modern and accessible hobby, egg art is something all generations can take part in, and connect over. Egg Art feeds into the current trend of working and crafting with natural, everyday objects, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Hatch a plan and get cracking on your egg-cellent designs now!

Read more less

An expert guide to popular surface-stitching techniques, suitable for stitchers of all abilities! Drawing on work previously published in the popular Beginner's Guide to Needlecrafts series, and originally published as The Stitching Book, this definitive guide to stitching provides a must-have reference for anyone interested in stitching and embroidery. Aimed at both beginners and those wishing to explore new areas or to develop their existing skills, this book provides a complete, step-by-step guide to traditional stitching techniques, including drawn thread embroidery, hardanger, goldwork, stumpwork, silk shading, crewel embroidery, Mountmellick and blackwork. Each section is authored by best-selling embroidery experts Patricia Bage, Jill Carter, Ruth Chamberlin, Kay Dennis, Clare Hanham, Jane Rainbow, Pat Trott and Lesley Wilkins, and leads the reader carefully through the history of the technique; the materials and equipment required; and the most popular stitches used. The sections include hands-on projects – 26 projects in all – and are beautifully illustrated with examples of the authors' works as well as step-by-step photographs and diagrams of the methods used. This timely book is the perfect choice for anyone whose interest in stitching has been re-awakened by the current trends in embroidery and sewing, and who wishes to make beautiful, hand-embroidered items for their home.

Read more less

Discover the joys of painting abstracts in acrylics with experienced artist and tutor Anita Hörskens. In this visually exciting, inspirational book, Anita teaches you about the method of abstraction, and the paints, paper and other materials you need to create stunning paintings. Chapters cover the areas of texture, collage, composition, colour, line, shape and pattern, with 55 clear and accessible projects to put your skills and ideas into practice. There are techniques to try such as impasto, using glazes, bronze gilding, linear overlays and monochrome painting. This highly practical book will build confidence in your painting and allow you to express yourself through the visual language and style of abstract painting.

Read more less

Over 20 different contemporary embroideries to transfer and stitch, plus 11 extra transfer designs to get your creative juices flowing! In Carina's latest book, discover how to 'doodle' embroider and create over 20 different designs full of colour and personality Kickstart your journey to original, personal doodle work with a variety of designs, ranging from formal patterns – such as geometrics, mandalas, labyrinths and knots gardens – to more experimental, free-form shapes that will encourage you to explore your skills and creativity. Then, be taken step by step through Carina's 'Garden' sampler, so you can see how to forge a unique embroidery yourself with no design to follow. The 22 designs can fit either in a 3- or 6-inch hoop, which are easy to source instore or online. Each of Carina's designs will include photographs of the finished embroidery, a thread key, a stitch diagram and suggestions of how to work the design. In addition, Carina will give advice on how to rework her embroidery, to encourage your own creativity. At the back of the book, a corresponding transfer can be found so that you can easily draw the design outline onto your own fabric. Essential materials and easy-to-follow techniques chapters can be found at the beginning of the book, along with step-by-step stitch diagrams for the 15 embroidery stitches used to make all the designs in the book – providing you with a fuss-free, colourful crash-course. Finally, there are 11 extra transfers at the back of the book, offering variations and ideas for you to dive into and work up your own unique stitcheries!

Read more less

Napkins add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your dining table and this book is a wonderful source of inspiration to help you decorate and customize your home with taste and creativity. Napkins are functional as well as decorative, and there are 40 imaginative designs to choose from, each explained through clear, step-by-step instructions and illustrations. There are folds to suit every occasion from a smart dinner party to a family barbecue, weddings, picnics and more. Gain all the skills, techniques and expertise you need to create stunning, contemporary table decorations to a professional standard.

Read more less

Packed with 60 gorgeous projects selected from the best-selling Love to Sew series, this bumper book will give you all the inspiration you need to get creative, bust that stash and make wonderful items for your home or for friends and family. Authored by best-selling, sewing superstars such as Debbie Shore, Alistair Macdonald and Debbie von Grabler-Crozier to name a few, Love to Sew offers all the expert guidance you'll need to make useful and unique items for your home or loved ones. Choose from practical items such as coasters, a wall tidy, a door stop and a tablet case, to beautiful, decorative pillows, cosy, warm quilts and practical, stylish bags. Each project is clearly explained step by step, with supporting photographs and illustrations. The book contains all the templates needed, along with a handy techniques section at the start to make sure you have all the information you need to get going.

Read more less

Who knew just two fat quarters can be used in so many ways? Conquer that pile of odd fat quarters you've stashed away and make 16 fun and practical items for your home. Start off with an easy-to-follow crash-course on the essential techniques you'll need throughout the projects – from adding a zip and bias binding to creating patchwork. Then, jump straight into your stash and get stitching! From slippers and aprons to bowls and cable-tidy caddies, there's plenty of inspiration to get you decorating your home with your own stunning handiwork. Each project includes inspiring photography, instructive hand-drawn illustrations and heaps of handy hints and tips from sewing enthusiast, Wendy Gardiner. Ideal for sewists of all abilities, this is the ultimate, affordable stash-busting project book that will get you making practical, colourful items for your home.

Read more less

In this fun and practical introduction to patchwork and quilting, 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 quilts, cushions, tote bags and table runners. Sarah discusses different shapes (squares, circles, triangles) and different techniques (appliqué, piecing blocks and curved piecing) in turn. She also includes information on basting, layering, quilting and binding, as well as pre-cuts. Filled with guidance and helpful tips and tricks, this book will equip you with all you need to know to get started on your quilting adventure. Put your skills into practice and at the same time create beautiful projects to keep or give as gifts.

Read more less

"There’s no grandstanding or showmanship, just solid, honest instructions and demonstrations that produce solid, worthwhile results." - Artbookreview.net Snow scenes make wonderful subjects for beginner watercolour artists - all you need is the know-how and confidence to give snow depth, sparkle and just the right amount of colour. Popular artist and author Grahame Booth will show you how to achieve beautiful results, using just three brushes, three paints and nine fantastic projects. Starting with a small but perfectly formed tool kit of three brushes, a mixing palette, watercolour paper and three tubes of paint, Grahame guides you step-by-step through nine projects, starting with a simple scene and progressing on to more complex ones. Even if you have never picked up a paintbrush, you will be amazed at what you will achieve by the end of this book. And along the way you will have learnt all the skills you need to start painting wonderful snow scenes of your own.

Read more less

The ancient craft of weaving has long been recognised for its humble, practical beauty and meditative qualities: while creating gorgeous decorative projects, you can also reflect and relax through the repeating motions of yarn winding over the loom. Rediscover this traditional craft and develop your weaving skills in the wonderful world of Elena Vilar, professional weaver and beloved French blogger known as Deer Jane. By following easy-to-follow instructions, learn how to create 15 woven masterpieces with a modern twist. Follow the illustrated techniques section at the beginning of the book to master the basics before you delve into Elena’s simple yet sophisticated designs. Discover how to make a cardboard loom, thread a shop-bought loom, dye wool using natural dyes, make homemade jersey yarn, wind pompoms and more. Learn the essential weaving methods through each project, starting with a simple, beautiful wall hanging in the basic stitch through to a dream catcher made with braids, soumak and rya knots. Create unique and beautiful designs by incorporating a range of materials, fabrics and imaginative embellishments. In addition, each project includes handy tips and advice to help and inspire you on your weaving journey.

Read more less

Tunisian crochet is a great way of producing stunning creative textiles and in this gorgeous book Emma Guess will show you how. Offering the perfect challenge for seasoned and new crocheters alike, Emma takes you from the absolute basics of Tunisian crochet. She then demonstrates how to develop your skills to create unique designs and textures. Accompanied by clear, step-by-step photography you’ll learn the basic stitches, then how to combine stitches and colour changes to create exciting new textures. There are three easy projects to practise your new skills, followed by ten stylish and modern projects for you to create. You can make a beautiful chunky blanket, a pair of mittens and matching scarf, a stylish shoulder bag, a chevron cushion and more. Emma’s unique style is fun, exciting and instantly alluring and these sleek and sophisticated projects will complement your home and make lovely gifts.

Read more less

The art of fire-writing is a returning trend, and there is no better way to learn the technique and inspire yourself than through this up-to-date edition of Daniel Wright's ultimate introduction to pyrography. Daniel Wright's enthusiasm for his subject is beautifully captured in a sequence of clear, easy-to-follow step-by-step photographs and unique projects. Taking his inspiration from pen-and-ink, engraving and watercolour techniques, he demonstrates many exciting methods and traditional ways of woodburning to create myriad patterns, pictures and motifs including landscapes, trees, flowers, animals and buildings. Information is included on the types of wood to use, how to prepare surfaces, working with the grain and enhancing designs. He goes on to illustrate shading and faux marquetry, and there's a section on using photographs and sketches to produce your own designs. With each new technique, a project is introduced by Daniel to help you learn and explore your new skill – from burning your own chessboard to a stunning fairytale stool design for your little one's bedroom. Finally, advice and demonstrations are provided on decorating old wooden objects, revitalizing much-loved pieces by working patterns into their worn, textured surfaces. This book will inspire, entertain and instruct you, whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced pyrographer.

Read more less

This inspiring, practical guide to goldwork and silk shading is packed with both traditional and innovative techniques, six samplers and 24 stunning projects. Learn how to create exquisite works using either goldwork or silk shading, and then learn how to combine the two disciplines for visually stunning results. Learn to select the threads, materials and equipment required; plan out the order of your work; transfer your design to fabric; frame up your fabric; and discover inspiring stitch techniques to achieve the results you want. Using nature as inspiration, develop a glittering range of exquisitely worked flowers, fungi, trees, bats and dragonflies, with each piece accompanied by detailed instructions and essential top tips. The book features original designs throughout, and you will be encouraged to extend your skills to create your own beautiful embroideries, helped by exercises, projects, diagrams, full-size templates and stunning photographs. This book is an invaluable practical starting point for anyone wishing to learn about the art of goldwork and silk shading, and an excellent reference for all those already familiar with these popular techniques.

Read more less

Beautifully photographed, this beginner-friendly guide has everything you need to make 18 lovely soaps. Inspirational for seasoned soap-makers as well, the recipes use only natural ingredients that are kind to the skin and our environment. From olive oil to juniper and cucumber to honey, there are lots of gorgeous fragrances and colours to satisfy everyone. With comprehensive information on where to start and what you need, the book includes essential tips on utensils, safety issues to consider, and by a step-by-step guide to making soap. There are also useful sections on fragrances and natural colourings and additives such as coffee and cinnamon. This book tells you everything you need to know about making your own hand-crafted soap, using tools most people already own An addictive hobby, you will find yourself making lovely, personalised soap ideas for gifting.

Read more less

Following the classic designs created in Very British Baby Knits comes this latest book by Susan Campbell for you to start knitting regal-inspired designs for your growing toddler! For many years, designer Susan Campbell has produced special pieces for a variety of high-profile clients. The collections in this book have been designed by Susan with the young Royals very much in mind, based on the popularity of the outfits worn by little Prince George and his sister Princess Charlotte. This book features 25 beautiful, hand-knitted designs ranging from clothes to toys and accessories that will make gorgeous gifts for any toddler, from 1 to 6 years old. The projects reflect the classic elegance of British design with easy-to-follow instructions and beautiful photographs. Knitters of all abilities will relish making these gorgeous designs fit for their own little prince or princess!

Read more less

Clay is an exciting material that has been used to make both practical and decorative items since prehistoric times. With this practical guidebook, learn all the skills you need to start creating your own beautiful ceramics. Step-by-step photographs and clear instructions will guide you through the core techniques, including pinching and coiling and throwing and trimming. Discover inspirational projects as your skills progress, from simple coiled vases with painted decoration to marbled clay boxes with transparent glazes. Learn how to decorate and fire your clay vessels with myriad textures, using methods such as inlays, slips, sgraffito, feathering, burnishing and resist. Following the impressive projects inside, you can put your new-found skills into practice and develop your creativity.

Read more less