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Tapping into the hottest trend in the cookery-as-craft market right now, this book is crammed with information on the art and craft of using fondant in cake decorating. Fondant is the most popular method in decorating trends because of its smooth surface, vivid colours, and chic finish. You can roll it, cut it out, mold it, and colour it. And author Carol Deacon shows you how. Decorated cupcakes are a favourite with adults and children, and this book is for you if you want to make vampire cakes for Halloween, or a cupcake tower adorned with cookie-cutter daisies, or give as gifts or favours adorable gum-paste animals or delicate ribbon-embellished porcelain-like flowers. Crammed with over 200 professional fixes, insider tips, and money-saving secrets, content is arranged by topic to enable any crafter to achieve a professional look to their cupcakes, cake pops, or celebration cakes.

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Step into the studio with much-loved textile artist and author Abigail Mill. This gorgeous book guides you step by step through 6 inspiring projects that reflect her ethereal style.'Whether you are a first time sewer hoping to develop your experience or a skilful sewer looking for a new challenge, this book will nurture your talent and take you on a colourful journey inspiring you to create wonderful pieces of your own.' Sewing WorldThis sumptuous book features six beautiful step-by-step projects, with full-size templates included, as well as galleries of Abigail's unique, contemporary artworks, on themes including teatime treats, animals and the seaside.From fraying and layering to free machine embroidery and embellishment, this gorgeous book teaches you how to recreate Abigail's whimsical style, and will inspire you to create wonderful pieces of your own with confidence and flair(and use up some of those stash and treasured fabrics, too!). The book touches on Abigail's inspirations

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Having pulled off a death-defying escape from Tweedy's farm, Ginger has finally found her dream - a peaceful island sanctuary for the whole flock, far from the dangers of the human world; Ginger's happy ending seems complete. But back on the mainland the whole of chicken-kind faces a new and terrible threat. For Ginger and her team - even if it means putting their own hard-won freedom at risk - this time, they're breaking in. In this crafty companion title to the highly-anticipated sequel to Chicken Run - Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, to be released on Netflix - Sarah-Jane Hicks skilfully demonstrates how to form the fabulous flock, including returning characters Ginger, Rocky, Babs, Bunty and the popular rats, Nick and Fetcher. There are 11 makes in all, and detailed instructions and techniques for creating each one. The characters range from between 10.5 and 24cm (41/2 and 91/2in) tall, great for little hands to hold, or perfect to prop up on a bookshelf! Don't be chicken: be more Babs, and whip up a storm with your yarns, just in time to enjoy the film of the year!

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Join Niina Laitinen on a journey around the world through gorgeous new knitting patterns. This book contains 20 sock patterns inspired by places and cities around the world, drawing on ancient stories, memorable sights and fond memories of the author's own travels. The 'Shanghai' socks are inspired by the gold dragon scales and flowing lace of China; delicate pale-pink cherry blossom motifs bedeck the 'Hanami' (flower viewing) socks that bring to mind springtime in Japan; while the flowing leaves of the tropical rainforests and the exotic creatures prescribe the vivid colourways of the 'Madagascar'-inspired pair. Laitinen has designed the patterns to be easy to knit in her trademark familiar style using double-pointed needles, or cable needles for the cabled details, and a creative use of colour. The instructions are clear, there are intricate, detailed pattern charts for each pair of socks, and the photos are rich, atmospheric and wonderfully evocative. Some instructions are written for multiple sizes, and others can be adapted using the instructions. Wherever you are, you can be sure to have the world at your feet!

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Get your crochet off to a flying start with 8 simple projects and multiple techniques to master. A must-have guide for those new to crochet stitches, techniques and projects, or those wanting a recap. In this complete course, crochet expert Claire Montgomerie covers all the basics from selecting the right tools and materials to holding your hook, making those crucial first stitches, fastening off, and reading a pattern. Clear step-by-step photographs and a handy fold-out flap with crochet abbreviations make it accessible for all, whether you are hooking your first stitch or revisiting the basics. Claire's approachable and friendly guidance is complemented by a delightful array of modern projects that will leave you inspired. As you build your skills, you'll be amazed at the progress you make while creating 8 stunning designs, each one teaching and reinforcing a new technique- from increasing and decreasing to changing color and joining seams. Choose from a diverse range of projects that will captivate your imagination:Craft eco-friendly washcloths and makeup pads, perfect for pampering yourself or gifting to loved ones or knit a ribbed beanie with a whimsical pompom, keeping you cozy and stylish in colder months. Or even unlesh your creativity and crochet a lovable cuddly toy that will bring joy to children and adults alike. Once you've gained confidence in your crochet skills, it's time to have some fun! Explore a world of eye-catching yarns and vibrant hooks as you embark on inspiring projects that showcase your newfound expertise. Start stitching today and unlock a world of endless possibilities.

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A beginner’s guide to modern raised stitches, 3D Embroidery is a curated collection of over 30 raised embroidery stitches and techniques, taught within the context of 20 in-hoop embroidery projects. The patterns featured offer contemporary designs for today’s modern maker. With step-by-step guides, embroidery artist Ashley Denn takes you on a pop-up journey and introduces you to the art of raised embroidery, identifying the materials needed for you to be successful, and including a directory of raised stitches and techniques. This wonderful must-have collection is perfect for both newbies and seasoned stitchers looking to add new techniques to their stitching inventory.

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Learn to draw 28 dynamic manga heroes and villains using this simple step-by-step book. Manga artist Yishan Li teaches you to transform simple shapes into a characterful range of 20 valiant heroes and eight despicable villains. Each project starts with a few basic outlines and progresses into a finished drawing in eight easy steps; a final coloured version shows you how to develop your artwork even further. Perfect for beginners, as well as budding manga artists, you’ll be amazed how easily you too can create your own team of manga heroes with this inspiring guide.

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Learn to paint 50 vibrant watercolour flowers in seven simple stages, with award-winning artist Penny Brown. Paint 50: Watercolour Flowers is the second title in a new beginner-friendly 'how-to-paint' series, following the same step-by-step formula as the mega-selling How to Draw series. This book focuses on a range of flowers, from rambling roses to elaborate orchids. This clear, large-format book covers classic cottage garden favourites to exciting exotics, ensuring that you're sure to find your favourite. The book will teach you how to paint over the course of 50 simple watercolour projects. Each can be completed in just 7 simple steps from initial line drawing to finished creation, using a small selection of colours and a handful of easy-to-follow watercolour techniques. Whether you want to create a hand-painted card, decorate your wall or maybe you simply want to learn the relaxing art of painting with watercolours, with 50 motifs to choose from, you’ll easily find something to inspire you. No prior knowledge of watercolour techniques needed –This book contains a short list of tools and materials needed to get started and a clear and informative guide to the basic techniques needed to paint this varied collection of flowers. No drawing skills required – The line drawings are provided at full size, ready to copy or trace – and all the information on how to do so is also included. The line drawings are also available to download for free from Bookmarked Hub. Suitable for artists of all levels – With a laser-focus on just the essential colours and techniques, Penny Brown's years of artistic and teaching experience cut through to give you exactly what you need to succeed.

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This 15th anniversary edition of the best-selling book 100 Flowers to Knit and Crochet, with over 130,000 copies sold! An utterly delightful collection of designs for any knitting or crochet enthusiast, it not only includes the most beautiful flowers and leaves, but also a wonderful, whimsical collection of fruit and vegetables as well as butterflies. As most of the projects use only small amounts of yarn, it is the perfect way to use up scraps, or practise using novelty yarns. You can use them to decorate clothing, hats, bags and belts, embellish home accessories, or make a beautiful bouquet as an unusual display piece. There are so many flowers to choose from that there is sure to be something you will love, from simple spiral roses and two-tone fuchsias, to elaborate layered blooms and fabulous felted flowers. The flowers are beautifully arranged on the pages, with stitched leaves and embroidered stems, and are cross-referenced to a separate section featuring clear pattern instructions and information on yarn requirements. You will also find plenty of inspiration for embellishing your finished flowers with beads, buttons, sequins and embroidery. In addition, there are lots of ideas for using them in a range of fun ways, from unusual jewellery to decorating gift-wrapped packages. The patterns use UK crochet terms, with a US/UK conversion chart printed on the fold-out flap. Previously published as 9781844484034.

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Sewing guru Wendy Gardiner brings you this comprehensive guide to sewing with fat quarters. Delve into a brilliant techniques section, guiding you through a variety of essential techniques, from inserting a zip and sewing buttonholes to creating patchwork. Each is fully explained and combined with easy-to-follow step-by-step photography. Once you have brushed up on your sewing skills it's time to get sewing. Choose from 15 inspiring projects: from doorstops and drawstring bags to tablemats, aprons and cushions. Each fun fat-quarter project contains colourful photographs, instructive hand-drawn illustrations and a stash of handy hints and tips. Whether you have treated yourself to a fat quarter bundle or are using up leftover fabric, there is a project for you. Full-size traceable templates are supplied at the back of the book. Previously published in 2015 (ISBN: 9781782211464).

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This is a creative guide to the 300 knitting stitches you really need to know, including contemporary stitches and timeless classics. An invaluable resource of original stitch patterns, this collection is suitable for newcomers, designers and knitters of all abilities. Instead of being merely a round-up of familiar stitches, this is a visual feast of new material put together by expert author-designers Lesley Stanfield and Melody Griffiths, with a wide experience of hand knitting. It is a must-have addition to existing reference books on the subject. The stitches are organized into knit and purl, textures and ribs, twist stitches, cables, lace, bobbles and bells, colour and intarsia designs, and unusual techniques including rarities like entrelac, double-sided fabric and mosaic effects. Clear and simple charts are provided with each pattern throughout the book. This is a reissue of the previously published book.

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Turn your wardrobe and accessories into a stylish, kaleidoscope of colour, and dip into the world of tie dye! Tie dye has taken the fashion world by storm. Once associated with the hippie movement, tie dye is now chic and edgy, and – in our eco-conscious world – can transform your old clothes into beautifully colourful, patterned pieces. With a few twists, elastic bands and a volume of dye, your once-loved T-shirts, denim jackets, hoodies, skirts and shorts turn into iconic, vibrant pieces that you'll love to wear, whatever the weather! Tie dye is something everyone can do, even beginners. In this book, master both basic and more advanced tie-dye styles project by project, using hand-made or fibre-reactive dyes. Now you can create designs such as bullseye, shibori and mandala patterns without hurting the planet. The beginning of the book includes a chapter on natural dyes and how to make them in your own kitchen, saving not just money but the environment too by avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. It will also discuss some eco-friendly alternatives for those who do not want to make their own dyes, as well as planet-friendly mordants that will ensure your dyed creations hold their colour. Illustrated steps and clear instructions accompany all 11 projects and tie-dye techniques, and each project comes with an alternative colourway to inspire. Thrifted or upcycled garments and accessories are used to make all the projects, so you can see how once-loved or upcycled clothing can easily turn into beautiful, vibrant pieces that you’ll love to wear.

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How do you keep your piles of scrap fabric from growing out of control? Sew with them, of course! In this inspirational book, best-selling author Debbie von Grabler-Crozier shows you how to stitch 20 stylish, fresh items from very small amounts of fabric. From tiny scraps that can be transformed into patchworked coasters, strips that can be made into scrap bunting and offcuts that can be used for pouches or pincushions, your treasured scraps can be given a new lease of life! An invaluable crash-course on key techniques is included at the beginning of the book, and every project includes clear step-by-step instructions and a stunning photograph of the finished design to inspire. Furthermore, there are templates for particular projects provided at the back of the book, so you can sew your items with ease.

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Taking inspiration from the Scandinavian, Nordic and Celtic regions, this book contains 20 charming and modern projects, based on traditional knitting styles and techniques. Exploring the iconic colourwork of Fair Isle or Scandinavia, or the chunky cables of Aran knitting, the intricacies of Shetland lace knitting or the cosiness of a Guernsey style pillowcase, these are knitwear items that are made to last. Jenny shares the inspiration and history behind each thoughtful project, as well as easy-to-follow patterns, colourwork charts, and atmospheric photography. She uses a serene and calming colour palette which, combined with beautiful soft yarns and stylish designs, makes for a collection of highly desirable items including garments and home accessories. Whether you’re a relative beginner or already an experienced knitter, with her guidance, you’ll soon be creating truly special and one-of-a-kind pieces that can be cherished for generations.

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Let this innovative and indispensable book be your painting companion: simply dip in and out whenever you need advice and guidance from best-selling author, Matthew Palmer. Start with watercolour basics and learn to plan successful pictures, then select expert guidance, tips for success, and beginner-friendly troubleshooting from within the sections on flowers, trees, buildings, water, people and wildlife. Discover how to make your moonlit sky really glow; learn how to paint lush, realistic foliage; add believable figures; and create driving rain and sparkling water. Unique to this book are Matthew’s key mix swatches. These allow you to achieve perfect results every time; explaining the colours you need and in what proportion. The paint mix is shown both wet and dry, so you can compare your palette with the wet mix, and know what it'll look like once applied. The dry swatches stretch to the edge of the page, so you can also simply hold the book up to the object you’re painting, find a colour match and create the right mix with ease. The book also includes a pull-out picture finder, which will help you create the best composition from the scene in front of you, isolate and identify a colour, try different picture formats and help with proportion and size. Designed to aid you whilst painting either indoors or out, the small format and hard cover make the book easy to transport and to store with the rest of your painting kit.

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"...by far the best primer [on perspective] I’ve ever seen. If you have other books, throw them away and buy this. You won’t regret it." - Artbookreview.net Learn how to master perspective and create convincing drawings of the three-dimensional world with the help of artist and teacher, Tim Fisher. Every aspect of perspective, from zero- to multi-point, is explored and explained in simple terms that everyone can understand. In addition to landscapes and buildings, you will learn how to apply perspective to people, animals, boats, reflections and more. There is also expert advice on drawing curved objects and inclined planes, a run-down of common mistakes, and an inspirational chapter on moving beyond a rigid application of the rules to draw freely and instinctively. Clear diagrams and finished drawings are included throughout, along with numerous exercises so that you can put your new skills into practice. This is a revitalized edition of Drawing Masterclass: Perspective (ISBN: 9781782211112).

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Do you want to learn how to draw manga characters from scratch? Then look no further! Aimed specifically at beginners, this book includes examples from the main genres of manga characters and will teach you how to draw different characters in distinct poses. Starting with simple exercises and gradually getting more complicated, there are sections covering Kodomo (child), Shonen (teenage boy), Shojo (teenage girl) and Seinen (youth) characters to practise. To help you along the way, there are clear step-by-step instructions, with 10 exercises for each genre. Friendly chibis also pop up every so often to offer tips and advice to keep in mind while you are drawing. Extensive advice on finishing techniques ranges from colouring by computer, using pen and ink, paintbrush, felt-tip pen and pencils, both in black and white and colour. For the best start to your manga-drawing journey, this book will inspire you to explore and improve your skills.

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Master artist and best-selling author David Bellamy shares with you his techniques, ideas and approach to painting his beloved landscape throughout the year. A revised and expanded edition of David Bellamy's Winter Landscapes in Watercolour, David looks at each season in detail and explores the challenges and surprises they present to the landscape artist. Also covered are learning techniques for seasonal effects such as rendering hoar frost on trees; misty and atmospheric effects; injecting rogue colours to add excitement to your work; how to tackle a variety of tree branches for different species; depicting light branches against dark backgrounds; altering the composition to suit your needs, and so much more.

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Bring the magic of the rainforest to your doorstep by drawing this collection of colourful animals and birds. Prolific author and artist Susie Hodge teaches you to transform simple shapes into mysterious jaguars, shy butterflies or endangered orangutans in easy-to-follow stages. Choose from a sleepy sloth, a noisy toucan and much more. There are 28 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 rainforest animals with this inspiring guide.

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Norwegian knitwear designers Heidi Eikeland and Mette Hovden have collaborated to present a thorough, step-by-step introduction to entrelac knitting; a technique in which the fabric is formed by knitting textured, diamond-shaped blocks. It creates an almost woven appearance unlike any other - and now it’s easier than ever to master! With a selection of eye-catching, contemporary garments for men, women and children, including gorgeously-patterned multicolour designs and elegant single-colour designs, there is a 'comprehensive techniques' section to get you started. You can work an entrelac design as a stunning embellishment across a sweater yoke or around the cuff of a mitten, or turn an entire garment into a dazzling work of art!

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'Claire’s ability to harness her mental health experience through Wool Couture is admirable. Her products are a labour of love and her latest book, Robyn Octopus & Friends, is no exception. There’s something so wonderful about spending hours creating something and being able to gift that to someone we love or keep it because we’re beyond proud of making it. This book is making me want to make my nana proud and pick up my knitting needles once again! I hope it inspires you to do the same.' - Foreword by Sara Davies, from Dragons' Den Snuggle up with Robyn Octopus and friends - all loveable, oversized toys to knit. The soft, chunky yarn and delightful characters will appeal to all, not just children. They make great reading or TV companions and sit at about 70cm tall. As well as 17 different animals to knit and love, including a puffin, an orangutan, a turtle and a unicorn, you can also make Mini Robyn Octopus, Mini Mabel Bunny and Mini Chloe Cat, which are 30-40cm tall. The projects are aimed at beginners to improvers and are suitable for someone who has mastered the basics of knitting. So be inspired, choose a pattern to start and be prepared to fall in love with this collection of adorable toys.

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Have fun with the Japanese art of amigurumi and crochet 40 fabulous dolls in a variety of outfits. Choose from firefighters, knights, police officers and baseball players, or maybe you'd prefer to make a cute doll dressed as a bumblebee, bunny rabbit, angel or princess, or celebrate some traditional folk costumes from around the world. Whether you are making a unique gift to mark a birthday, wedding, Christmas or Easter, or a special reward for passing an exam or joining a sports team, there will be a doll in this collection that will be the perfect fit. Each project is based on one of three basic doll designs – ranging from approximately 8-13 cm (3-5 inches) tall. These basic patterns are presented at the start of the book, along with information on how to sew up your dolls, stuff them, and add their facial features and hairstyles. Only a few basic crochet stitches are needed, and these delightful dolls are perfect for using up scraps of yarn from your stash.

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Water-mixable oil paints offer all the qualities of traditional oils – rich pigments, buttery consistency, long drying times – but with one remarkable difference, there is no need for solvents! This book will encourage and inspire beginners and provide them with all the skills and knowledge they need to produce successful oil paintings. It starts with an introduction to the medium, and explains what water-mixable oils are. This introduction is followed by several sections on materials, preparation (how to care for your brushes, storing your paints, and so on), colour (selecting your basic, or capsule, palette), mixing the paints and preparing your surfaces. The first project explains how to explore colour in order to paint in the style of Vincent van Gogh. There are then five longer projects that touch upon the themes of abstraction, still life, landscapes, buildings, and working from a photograph, all of which capitalize on the rich qualities of the paints. Each project is accompanied by a clear list of materials needed as well as top tips and skills practised; Sarah also interjects with useful anecdotes and words of wisdom garnered from her experience working in this vibrant and exciting medium. At the end of the book, the reader discovers how best to store and transport finished paintings, especially if the paint is still tacky to the touch, and how to frame a painting for impact.

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Whitework embroidery traditionally features beautifully intricate designs using white thread on white background fabric, examples of which can be found in many cultures across the world. Without the addition of colour, the fabric surface is ornamented with high-relief stitching, cutting, pulling or withdrawing threads with some styles utilizing all these techniques. Whitework Inspirations highlights the very best whitework has to offer in both design and technique. Featuring talented embroidery designers Kim Beamish, Deborah Love, Judy Stephenson, Christine P Bishop, Susan O'Connor, Patricia Girolami and Luzine Happel, this special collection – including a tablecloth, table mats and sachets – has been curated into one publication. With 8 stunning whitework projects to make, there are clear step-by-step instructions, pullout patterns, a stitch guide and all the information you need to create them. Discover the origins, stitches, techniques and designs that are uniquely whitework, and learn how to make your own beautiful works of art.

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A complete guide to modern calligraphy with Artsynibs. Joyce Lee first picked up a calligraphy pen when she started making stationery for her wedding. For her, it is now a way of life, her career and what she calls a 'calligraventure'. In this practical and inspiring book, Joyce introduces modern calligraphy, including the tools you need and how to use them. She teaches various techniques and methods for creating beautiful artwork to give you the confidence to embark on creative projects of your own, including handwritten envelopes, gift tags and an elegant monogram. To help you practise your handwriting skills, the book is accompanied by an envelope of photocopiable practice sheets, contained within an attractive hardback folder. However, this is more than just an instructional guide; it encourages you to find joy in committing your thoughts to paper. Joyce believes that calligraphy is not just about perfecting the strokes, but about patience, concentration and slowing down to be mindful of the moment. Creativity is at the heart of us all; it simply needs to be unlocked, nurtured and given an outlet. This book is everything calligraphy should be: classic, stylish, creative and thought-provoking. Fall in love with the art of handwritten lettering as you release your own creativity on the page.

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Blackwork is a traditional form of embroidery, usually worked in black thread on a white background. Here, author Melanie Couffe takes the technique and gives it a burst of colour by introducing delicate shades of pink, blue, green, red, yellow, orange and purple. Her book begins with an introduction to the fabrics and threads she uses, and the basic stitches you need to produce the beautiful designs featured in the book. There are 16 gorgeous projects to create, including a pinkeep, mobile phone case, purse and several framed pieces, all accompanied by step-by-step instructions, photographs and charts. Melanie's enchanting designs will inspire you to introduce colour into your blackwork, and create your own modern, stunning embroideries based on this classic technique. The threads used in the book are her own hand-dyed range available to order from her website and Etsy shop.

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An inspirational, practical guide by textile artist Letitia Thompson, the world of Mrs Bertimus! In this exciting new book Letitia shows you how to create colourful, contemporary, animal-themed stitched textiles with a quirky mix of vintage and whimsical style. Letitia's subjects range from playful, dancing mice to crafty foxes, their personalities skillfully captured in stitch using free-motion machine embroidery and hand stitching. The progression from idea to stitch is developed in easy stages, providing a valuable insight into the author's creative process and the methods she uses to achieve her stunning textile artworks. Starting with a comprehensive materials and techniques section, the book includes three step-by-step projects, templates, and numerous finished pieces to spark your creativity, resulting in a unique source of ideas and inspiration for textile artists of all abilities.

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Create nine stunning quilts and 11 desirable gifts using contemporary big-stitch quilting. Big stitches sewn by hand lend an irresistibly tactile quality and visual style to quilts and other items, as well as being meditative and relaxing to sew. Each of the 20 stylish projects in this book is quilted using a range of big stitches, inspired by Boro, Kantha and Sashiko-style stitching. Each project is shown step by step, with illustrations and photographs throughout to make the process simple to follow. Learn how to create nine gorgeous quilts as well as 11 gift projects, which include wrapping cloths, a Japanese knot bag, a pillow cover and coasters. There is a comprehensive techniques section at the start of the book that explores the kinds of materials and fabrics best suited to big stitch quilting, the stitches and methods used, and how to assemble and finish your quilts. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in this stunning form of hand quilting.

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If you have often struggled to draw portraits or moving people, from master artist Giovanni Civardi comes this highly visual beginners guide to drawing people using the traditional grid technique – a method that makes the first stages of drawing simple and achievable. Artist Giovanni Civardi shows you how to create an accurate pencil sketch of the subject by laying a grid over a photo or drawing and transferring the image to the drawing surface one square at a time. Beginning with a summary of basic human anatomy and key drawing techniques, this book contains over 90 outlines of people in a range of ages, profiles and poses, with guidance on how to add shading and tonal effects to create more detailed finished drawings. Uses material from Drawing Using Grids: Portraits with Character and Drawing Using Grids: Portraits of Babies & Children.

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BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! Beverly Johnson’s book is packed with scores of fun exercises that will really motivate young beginner artists who are just getting interested in drawing for animation, comic book art, or just for pleasure. In a series of beginner-friendly exercises, she explores how to conceptualize wonderful, convincing characters and shows how to translate ideas into great professional-looking drawings. The book is organized into key chapters associated with what makes engaging, three-dimensional characters. Read the advice, work your way through the exercises and you will get to the end with a portfolio bursting with wonderful creations. This book demonstrates how to create diverse characters with strong personalities, unique mannerisms and interests; how to understand their motivations, find their passions and make them come alive. Split into 75 easy-to-follow and fun exercises, Bev leads the young reader through the techniques and skills needed to create their very own characters.

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Fill your home with original, professional art – and learn to paint at the same time. This innovative new series is a poster book, an art pad and a step-by-step painting book all rolled into one! Each of the five posters is ready to pull out, frame and display. In addition, you can enjoy the calming pursuit of painting each of the pictures yourself using the pre-printed outlines – so no drawing required. The large, landscape format of the book allows each stage of painting to be clearly and comprehensively explained with innovative annotations. Simply pull out the stage-by-stage tutorial pages and pin them to your easel, then paint directly onto the watercolour outline for fantastic results. In this title, City Scenes, learn to paint iconic scenes of London, Paris and New York, and enjoy five masterclasses in painting from renowned artist Geoff Kersey.

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Fill your home with original, professional art - and learn to paint at the same time. This innovative new series is a poster book, an art pad and a step-by-step painting book all rolled into one! Each of the five A3 posters are ready to pull out, frame and display. In addition, you can enjoy the calming pursuit of painting each of the pictures yourself using the pre-printed outlines - so no drawing required. The large, landscape format of the book allows each stage of painting to be clearly and comprehensively explained with an innovative annotation approach. Simply pull out the simple, stage-by-stage tutorial pages and pin them to your easel, then paint directly onto the watercolour outline for fantastic results. In this title, Country Scenes, learn to paint a range of inspiring landscapes: journey to a tranquil New Forest stream, a rolling Tuscan hillside and a snowy mountain river, and enjoy 5 masterclasses in landscape painting.

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Screen printing is a print process involving the forcing of ink through a screen of fine material to create a picture or pattern. It has been around for many years, and has long been perceived as a specialist subject accessible only to professional printers and textile artists due to the high cost of the screens and inks. Recently, however, screen printing has entered the mainstream and the equipment and tools have become more affordable and accessible. In this Beginner's Guide to Screen Printing, Erin Lacy shows you how to make your own screen using an embroidery hoop and silk fabric, and demonstrates how to create beautiful designs that are easy to achieve. Discover how to print onto different surfaces such as wood, cork and fabric, and create twelve stunning, coastal and botanical-themed projects through bright and colourful step-by-step photography. The book includes templates and inspiration on how to design your own screen printing motifs.

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Even if you have never picked up a paintbrush before, professional watercolour teacher and artist Stephen Coates will show you how to paint lakes and rivers in watercolour using just three brushes, three colours, a plastic palette and a watercolour pad. Using just red, blue and yellow paint Stephen shows you how to paint nine realistic watercolour scenes. There is no off-putting colour theory or long-winded mixing information, just a practical absolute beginner’s course that shows the three colours in action. Build your skills through each of the nine easy paintings, starting from the simplest of scenes and ending with a more challenging, stunning picture you’ll be proud to have painted. There are step-by-step photographs for each project, clear instruction and advice throughout, and handy tips and jargon busters. Each of Stephen’s finished paintings is shown at full size for easy reference, which you can even use to trace from for a stress-free painting experience. This is a straightforward, economical, practical progressive course to painting lakes and river scenes in watercolour. Stephen uses the following paints and brushes in this book: Winsor & Newton Cotman watercolours - Raw Sienna, Light Red and Ultramarine. Brushes - Proarte Series 101 round size 2, Series 101 round size 8, Proarte 3/4inch Mini hake flat goat hair brush.

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This complete beginner's guide to painting animals and birds is ideal if you want to learn to paint in watercolour but are short on time. Broken down into 32 quick and easy paintings measuring just 15 x 10cm (6 x 4in), this basic course will teach you all the skills you need to paint domestic and wild animals and birds, in home settings or in nature. Best-selling author Matthew Palmer shows you how to paint a diverse range of animals and birds, including a parrot, cat, dog, zebra, stag, cow and swan, and teaches you how to paint realistic markings, fur and feathers, and how to create faces filled with character and personality. Tracings are provided for all the paintings, including the three projects at the end of the book. Simply trace them off onto your watercolour paper and paint with confidence, without the need to make an initial drawing. Each painting takes just 30 minutes to complete and teaches you a different technique, so by the end of the book you will be equipped with all the skills you need to complete one of the three full-size projects: a King Charles cavalier spaniel, a snow leopard and a hummingbird.

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Weaving is more popular than ever, so why not join the biggest trend – in miniature. Discover over 20 cute projects to weave in this beautiful book by multi-crafter Harumi Kageyama. Create home decor essentials such as table mats and tiny wall hangings through to must-have accessories with brooches, card cases, rings and purses. You can try different materials, from classic yarn to more novel materials such as ribbon, suede and pipe cleaners. Don’t be afraid to adapt the designs for a whole different look! Small projects mean small looms, and Harumi shows how easy these are to make with a few materials you can find at home such as cardboard, paper, pins, wood and nails. These do-it-yourself looms are perfect for crafting on the go, and are small enough to take with you as a portable travel craft or outside pastime. With just a small selection of basic materials, you’ll be weaving on your handmade loom in no time.

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The blank page can be daunting, but 10 Step Drawing: Animals offers an easy jumping-off point for any doodler to be creative. Featuring illustrated tutorials for drawing 75 adorable (and sometimes grumpy-looking!) creatures – from exotic animals such as a cheetah and flamingo, to aquatic mammals and fish like the dolphin, penguin and octopus, along with furry friends close to home such as a cat, a dog and a horse – every image is fun and easy to replicate in ten simple steps, using just a pen and paper. Handy prompts at every stage help the reader without giving them dry, prescriptive instructions, and every animal has its own distinctive character. 10 Step Drawing: Animals is sure to encourage even the most nervous amateur artist to dust off their pen and doodle. Other titles in the series: 10 Step Drawing: Flowers.

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Geoff Kersey shares his expertise in this book packed full of tips for watercolour painters. Learn all you need to know, from what to buy, composing a painting and mastering techniques such as wet into wet and dry brush work, to how to paint skies, water, trees, buildings and more. The tips are clearly explained and illustrated through artwork and step-by-step photographs. This title was previously published as Geoff's Top Tips for Watercolour Artists. In this new, easy-to-use flexibinding format with an updated design, the books in the Watercolour Artists’ Pocket Books series bring you the best tips from some of Search Press's leading authors.

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Get that ‘just right’ balance into your home and life with the 20 fresh Scandinavian-inspired designs in this book. Lagom är bäst, or ‘the right amount is best’ – a Swedish philosophy that fosters the concept of living a simpler and more balanced life. In this book, author and blogger Debbie von Grabler-Crozier shows you how to embrace the ethos of Lagom by teaching you how to sew 20 beautiful accessories for your home that combine Scandi style with simple and practical design.

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Design and sew your own gorgeous, unique skirts, with no need for shop-bought patterns. Start by creating your own block and toile using just four body measurements. Then select your skirt shape, add the fittings, fastenings and details you want, and put the whole thing together with ease. With clear step-by-step photography and easy-to-follow instructions, Jenniffer Taylor (of The Great British Sewing Bee) will show you how to mix and match the design elements you really want to make your perfect garment; choose from A-line, flared, gathered, pencil and pleated shapes, and from pockets, zips, buttons and yokes. The book contains 10 inspiring skirt options to get you started... but it’s your skirt, your way, so fill your wardrobe with an array of gorgeous skirts that fit you perfectly and suit your style!

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We all use ceramics on a daily basis without thinking much about it, except when it comes to a favourite mug or cup, for instance. Why is it a favourite? Is it that it holds just the right amount of tea or coffee? Is it that it sits comfortably in the hand with an ample handle that allows you to hold it safely? Is it the clay the cup is made from — a fine porcelain or robust stoneware? Is it the rustic shape or refined, delicate, traditional or contemporary design? Maybe you just like the pattern on the outside! Whatever the reason, someone will have been thinking about the ergonomics of the cup when they designed and made it and all the other ceramic items that you use, to ensure they work perfectly and give you pleasure to handle and serve your food and drink in. This book is a visual feast of ideas and advice to guide the maker through the process of designing and making successful functional ceramics that are practical and appealing in equal measure. It adopts a low-tech approach that is understandable and accessible for all and begins with the basic questions you will need to address before you begin. Each element of the process will be carefully considered, from deciding the function of the item to working out proportions and making basic drawings, to choosing the right clay, tools, and making method, and finally glazing and firing, including safety issues and the essential topic of suitability for food. Each chapter begins by presenting a varied range of basic shapes, be they thrown or hand built. The next section demonstrates a wide selection of handles, rims, feet, lids, knobs, spouts, lips, and other details that can be mixed and matched to form unique designs with personality and functionality. Working the whole process out in advance can reap tremendous rewards, ensuring the maker gets it right first time but also allowing the process to be repeated with minimum effort. From idea to finished item, this book will be the essential guide to all the techniques required to make functional ceramics that really work and give lasting pleasure to use.

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Tempted to start painting but not sure where to start? Learn how to paint beautiful watercolour flowers using just 3 colours, 3 brushes, a plastic palette and a watercolour pad. This book will build your skills through easy exercises, starting from the simplest of tulips and working up to a stunning rose. Clear advice and step-by-step photography will show you exactly what to do at each stage. No drawing necessary – you can simply trace and transfer the basic drawings from the finished paintings, which are shown at full size. Colours used: cadmium yellow pale, ultramarine blue and permanent rose. Brushes used: Round brushes size 10 (Large), size 8 (Medium), and a size 4 (Small).

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Count down to Christmas with Debbie Shore. Sew unique, personalised advent calendars for your loved ones, and fill them with their favourite festive treats and handpicked goodies that they’ll really treasure. There are 20 designs included, from traditional flat-pocket calendars to hanging cones and festive pouches, for both adults and children alike, along with a treat-filled calendar for the family dog! The book contains all the techniques needed to make the calendars, and every project is shown clearly step-by-step, with helpful tips and advice throughout. Using Debbie’s friendly and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s time to get crafty and create a new festive family tradition!

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If you have always wanted to draw manga but weren’t sure how to begin, this fun and simple step-by-step book will help kick-start your comic-drawing journey. Learn how to draw boys, girls and creatures (ordinary and extraordinary) in the manga style. Starting with basic shapes, professional manga artist Yishan Li shows how easy it is to turn circles, rectangles, squares and ovals into teens, kids, witches, wizards, monsters, animals and much more. Professional manga art from well-known comic creator Yishan Li Over 130 step-by-step drawings Easy method with great results

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Discover Soutache, the art of creating modern and unique jewellery from looped braids. Donatella Ciotti shows you how to create stunning, expensive-looking costume jewellery, from earrings and bracelets to brooches for hats, with full-colour, detailed photography to guide you through each process. There is even a gallery of images at the end of the book to inspire you to create your own, bespoke soutache masterpieces. Learn about the history of jewellery crafting and the ever-growing trend for affordable yet stylish costume jewellery, before trying your hand at your own soutache pieces. Begin with the basic techniques of finishing and sewing the cords and inserting pearls and cabochons or cameos, discover the secrets behind coiling your soutache braids to make buttons, then begin to make bracelets, rings, headbands and much more. Your soutache creations will be eye-catching and entirely unique to you!

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Sew 23 beautiful, vintage-style items that will bring a touch of elegance to your home and make wonderful gifts for friends and family. Create beautiful accessories including a lacy pillow cover, a bucket-style wash bag, a dressing table cover and cones for displaying posies of dried flowers; sew gorgeous projects perfect for an afternoon tea including a tea cosy, made-to-measure tray cover and a cake frill; and create accessories for a vintage Christmas with a stocking, advent calendar and wreath. Using half-yard pieces of fabric and Debbie’s friendly, easy-to-follow advice, vintage style has never looked better!

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This guide to painting watercolour landscapes is ideal if you want to learn to paint but are short on time. Broken down into 33 quick and easy paintings that take no more than 30 minutes to complete, this basic course will teach you all the skills you need to paint landscapes and their components, including trees in winter, sparkling water, hedgerows and gates, animals, human figures and buildings in the landscape. The 30-minute paintings are all worked at postcard size – ideal for a 6 x 4in (A6) watercolour pad, and tracings are included for those with limited drawing skills. Each small painting is a work of art in its own right, and can be stored in your portfolio for reference later, or framed and hung on the wall to impress your friends. The book is broken down into chapters that focus, respectively, on essential watercolour techniques including colour mixing and glazing; laying washes and creating skies and realistic-looking clouds; the rudiments of composition; trees and flowers in a landscape; water– still and moving, from stream to open sea; and the living landscape – human and animal figures, structures and buildings in the landscape. The final section of the book contains three complete paintings that demonstrate how to combine all the techniques and elements of painting landscapes, as gleaned from the preceding chapters. These paintings, too, are accompanied by actual-size tracings. There are 33 tracings in all to help you compose your own landscape paintings. Praise for the Ready to Paint in 30 Minutes series: “This is a genuinely exciting evolution of a popular series. You’ll be guided through some simple exercises and on to complete paintings, gaining valuable insights that will develop and improve your skills.” – Henry Malt, Artbookreview.net

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This fantastic new book from highly respected quilter and author Carolyn Forster gives you nine beautiful Layer Cake (pre-cut 10-inch square) quilt designs, made using a variety of patchworking and quilting styles. Also included are nine accompanying `gift’ projects, which range from bags and pincushions to needlebooks and coasters… although you may find them just too good to give away! All the techniques you need are clearly explained at the beginning of the book with easy-to-follow step-by-step photography, and the instructions for putting together each quilt are illustrated for clarity. All the necessary templates are included at actual size.

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