Martha Stewart's Handmade Holiday Crafts - Book Review

Martha Stewart's Handmade Holiday Crafts

Potter Crafts 2011

ISBN: 978-0-307-58690-2

My Review:

From the Publisher:

Join Martha Stewart for a celebration of handcrafted holidays all year-round!

New Year’s – Valentine’s Day – Easter – Mother’s Day – Father’s Day – Fourth of July – Halloween – Thanksgiving – Hanukkah – Christmas

Let Martha inspire your creativity with the most beautiful crafts. The 225 handmade projects include cards and greetings, decorations, gifts and gift wrapping, tabletop accents, party favors, and kids’ crafts, as well as more holiday-specific activities, such as egg-dyeing, pumpkin carving, and tree trimming. Each idea is sure to make the holidays more festive—and memorable.




AMAZON

~XOXO~

Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars by Sharon Lovejoy

Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars
by Sharon Lovejoy
Workman Publishing
ISBN: 9780761150435

My Review:

From the Publisher:
Make leaf rubbings, learn the neighborhood bird songs together, turn an aquarium into a worm hotel, create a firefly lantern. There are garden projects, both for the outdoors—grow a container snacking garden, a pumpkin patch in a pot—and the indoors, i.e., how to use something called "indoor garbage gardens" to grow pineapple tops, sweet potato vines, peanuts, and more. Cooking projects, both in the sunshine—baking in a solar oven—and in the kitchen—what child will ever forget the time the two of you made Potato Volcanoes with Lava? And lots of rainy-day activities for times when nature's in a cranky mood.

Created by Sharon Lovejoy—a grandmother of four and the author of two classic books of garden activities for grown-ups and kids, Sunflower Houses and Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots—Toad Cottages and Shooting Stars is an ecologically inspired guide that combines more than 130 green activities with timeless grandparenting advice. Illustrated with Lovejoy's distinctive, delicate watercolors, it's an inventive resource for grandmother and grandchild to connect with each other through nature. It is the book to make sure an afternoon, a day, or a weekend turns into a memory that lasts forever.

Unfurling

Unfurling: a mixed media workshop

by Misty Mawn

Quarry Publishing

ISBN: 9781592536887

My Review:

From the Publisher:

Unfurling is a workshop in book form, offering a unique mix of inspiration and technique exercises to get your creative juices flowing. This book is for any creative person who wishes to open up more to the process of making art.

The book begins with art exercises in drawing and painting that include portraiture, contour drawing, backgrounds, layering, and working with a still life, followed by collage and image transfer techniques.

The second section offers exercises and projects in stamp carving, paper pottery, sculpture, origami, paper doll making, and surface design. These tactile explorations offer an enjoyment of the process as well as wonderful handmade projects.

The last section shares a variety of approaches to visual journaling. There are instructions for binding your own journal, prompts and ideas for working on your pages, and a variety of exercises using photography and poetry as ways to inspire and inform your journal keeping.

Also included are a set of gift book plates and a beautiful paper doll designed by the author and printed on perforated cardstock in the back of the book.

Adventures in BookBinding

Adventures in BookBinding
by Jeannine Stein
Quarry Publishing
ISBN: 9781592536870

My Review:

From the Publisher:

Each project in this book combines bookbinding with a specific craft such as quilting, jewelry making, or polymer clay, and offer levels of expertise: basic, novice, and expert. Illustrated step-by-step instructions and photographs demonstrate how to construct the cover pages, and a unique binding technique, easy enough for a beginner to master.

Each project also features two other versions with the same binding geared to those with more or less experience. The novice version is for those who have no knowledge of the craft and want shortcuts, but love the look. For the quilter's book, for example, vintage quilt pieces become the covers so all that's needing in the binding. Or if you're interested in wool felting use an old sweater. This offers great opportunities for upcycling.

The expert version is for those who have a great deal of knowledge and proficiency of a certain craft - the master art quilter, for example. For this version, an expert guest artist has created the cover and the author has created the binding. This offers yet another creative opportunity - the collaborative project. Since crafters often get involved with round-robins and other shared endeavors, this will show them yet another way to combine their skills.

No other craft book offers the possibilities and challenges that Adventures in Bookbinding does. Readers will return to it again and again to find inspiration and ideas.

The Art Journal Workshop

The Art Journal Workshop

by Traci Bunkers

Quarry Publishing

ISBN-13: 978-1-59253-684-9

DVD included / 128 pages
*thank you Quarry for the opportunity to review*

My Review:

From the Publisher:

Many people want to express themselves through visual journaling, but are stuck or intimidated with how to get started, what to write, or how to move beyond gluing down a few images or putting some paint on the paper.

This book breaks down the entire working process of journaling with step-by-step photos and instructions from start to finish: how to use different media such as paint, photographs, and collage, and contains journaling prompts and exercises. These exercises help readers dig deeper to enrich the journaling process and experience. The book discusses the benefits of visual journaling, and includes exercises about what to do when you are in a creative funk or feeling down or uninspired, and how to help yourself out of it.

The book includes a DVD featuring Traci Bunkers creating many of the visual journal pages shown throughout the book. This visual guide enhances the information in the book, showing her work process in a way that goes beyond what can be captured in still photographs or through text.

-XOXO

Resource Links:
Traci Bunkers
Traci Bunkers Facebook
Traci Bunkers Twitter

Mark Montano's Big Ass-Books and a GIVEAWAY

It's been way to long since I have hosted a giveaway. So, how about a 2 book giveaway?

I am sure you all know who Mark Montano is...if not, no worries, I am going to tell you.  Mark is a TV Host, Designer, Author and Artist.  From what I know of Mark, you can add "Classy" to the list.

As some of you know, I have reviewed one of Mark's books, The Big-Ass Book of Home Decor. Mark found my video review on YouTube and asked if I would review his other books. He also sent me additional copies to giveaway to you!

He is my video review of The Big-Ass Book of Crafts:

My video review of Pulp Fiction:

Now for the 2 book giveaway:

1. US residents only, no PO Boxes.

2. Leave me a comment with your email address.

3. Books provided by Mark Montano, Shipping provided by Beachbrights.

4. It's that easy to enter! Contest ends Friday, March 25th @ Midnight.

Be sure to check out these great links:

Mark Montano

BigAssCrafts

Facebook

Twitter

Every Day's a Holiday

Every Day's a Holiday - Year Round Crafting with Kids

by Heidi Kenney

Photographs by France Ruffenach

Chronicle Books

ISBN: 978-0-8118-7144-0

*Thank you Alyson & Chronicle Books for the opportunity to review*

My Review:

From the Publisher:

Kids love making crafts, and no one knows that better than Heidi Kenney, creator of the popular blog My Paper Crane. In this festive how-to book, Heidi shares a year's worth of classic and not-so-classic projects that the whole family will enjoy, from the National Bird Day embroidered handmade book to the St. Patrick's Day mini leprechaun pin. Fifty fully photographed projects are geared to all age levels and abilities. Some—like the New Year's Day newspaper hats—are simple enough for small kids to make themselves with minimum assistance, while more complicated projects require a little extra help from mom or dad. With so many fun projects to bring the family together, Every Day's a Holiday proves that every day really is a holiday.

Inside the Book:

Nov. 13 America Recycles Day: Recycled Mini Robots

Nov. 4 National Candy Day: Rock Candy

1st Friday in June Donut Day: Marzipan Doughnuts

April 1 April Fool's Day: Faux Cupcakes

Feb. 14 Valentine's Day: Felted Love Bugs

Other Resources:

My Paper Crane

Big Ass Book of Home Decor and Giveaway!

The Big-Ass Book of Home Decor
by Mark Montano
Stewart, Tabori & Chang / Abrams Books
ISBN: 978-1-58479-825-5

My Review: I really hate it when I don't like a book. Decor books are so subjective to taste and individual style. So, please take a moment to watch the video review I did of this book. I took the time to highlight several of the projects.  Just remember, what I might not like, someone else will love.  This book received lots of praise from industry professionals - which I am not.

The book is divided into over 14 chapters and includes more than 100 projects laid out into 272 pages (400 color photographs).

The color photographs are both pretty and helpful. Each craft has a "you'll need list", a comprehensive "here's how" and step-by-step photos - very well written and easy to follow.  Basic sewing techniques are needed for some of the projects.

3 out of 5 stars.

From the Publisher: You have a problem. Your current home “décor” is ugly, shabby, and boring, but you can’t afford lots of new stuff. Or maybe your house is filled with tired old junk that you just can’t bear to throw away. Or maybe you bought all your furniture at a big box store, but it irritates you that it all looks like you bought it there.

You have a solution—or, rather, a whole houseful of solutions. In this newest Big-Ass Book, do-it-yourself guru Mark Montano presents 105 practical, simple, and decidedly unboring projects for every space in your home. Montano’s wizardry—accomplished with masking tape, spray paint, and glue—transforms everything from accessories, to walls and windows, to lighting, to major pieces like headboards, tables, dressers, and chairs. (And there’s even a chapter on turning the anonymous items you got at IKEA into one-of-a-kind treasures.

About the Author: Mark Montano is a designer and well-known host on TLC’s While You Were Out and 10 Years Younger, We’s She’s Moving In, and Style Network’s My Celebrity Home. He is the author of CosmoGIRL Cool Room, The Big-Ass Book of Crafts, Super Suite, and Dollar Store Décor. Montano is based in Los Angeles and New York.

*Thank you Leslie for the opportunity to review*

~GIVEAWAY~

This giveaway is for my review copy of The Big-Ass Book of Home Decor. This book is in excellent condition & was only used for review purposes. The book will be shipped from me, paid for by me.

How to enter (any of these entries will work):

1. Leave me a comment with your email address. +1
2. Tweet or Facebook about this giveaway. Leave me additional comments that you did. You don't have to leave me the link. Suggested Tweet: (#giveaway #bookreview The Big-Ass Book of Home Decor http://bit.ly/bigvq2 @ABRAMSbooks @beachbrights). +2
3. Open to US.
4. Contest ends Thurs. May 27th.

~XOXO~

Need Help Crafting? GIVEAWAY ALERT!

WOW, do I have a treat for one lucky reader!!

Marie with David and Charles Publishers has graciously agreed to give one of my lucky readers a copy of Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts.

photo credit: Ditte Isager

Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts

David and Charles

UK Oct. 30, 2009

Specs: 416 pages, Hardback

ISBN-13: 978-0-7153-3635-9

www.rucraft.co.uk
RUCrafts on Facebook

My Review: This book contains the best of the craft projects from Martha Stewart Living Magazine. The book includes:

     1. Step-by-Step Instructions

     2. Full Color Photographs

     3. Easy to Copy Templates

     4. Glossary of Terms

     5. Supply Lists

     6. Vendor Lists

All crafts are organized by topic from A to Z. There are over 400 pages of crafting information, set up into 32 chapters. The chapter's are organized first by supplies needed, followed by step-by-step instructions and then several inspirational ideas.

Beaded Letters

photo credit: Carlton Davis

At first glance, the book seemed overwhelming. Most of these crafts will take practice and success will not be achieved on the first try. Some of these crafts are very artistic and tradesmanship worthy.

Polymer Clay Buttons

photo credits: Sang An

This is an excellent resource book. However due to the skills needed to complete most of these crafts, I am rating this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Bottle Cap Frames

photo credit: James Merrell

From the Publisher: This comprehensive resource features 32 must know crafts organized by subject from A-Z, and beautifully designed – all packed into the 416 pages of this book. From beading to block printing and candlemaking to soap making all crafts are covered with contemporary projects to suit all tastes.

Full step-by-step instructions for every technique, catering for everyone from first-time dabblers to the more adventurous crafters. Over 200 projects are fully explained with great photography. Illuminating glossaries, a full rundown of essential tools and materials, professional tips and handy UK resources are included, making this a lasting reference you will dip into time and time again.

Projects Include:
Albums, Scrapbooks & Memory Boxes, Beading, Block Printing, Botanical Pressing, Calligraphy, Candle-making, Etching Glass, Gilding, Matting & Framing, Mosaics, Nature Crafts, Painting China and Glass, Paper Cutting and Punching, Photo Crafts, Silkscreening, Soap Making, and lots more.

To purchase Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts

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I will randomly pick one follower/commenter to receive a copy of Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts. The book will be shipped from the publisher.

If you are a follower of my blog, do nothing,
you are automatically entered in this giveaway.
If you would like to increase your chances, you can do the following:

1. +1 entry, leave me a comment with your email address (easy!)

2. +1 entry, Tweet about this giveaway, you can copy & paste the following: Win a copy of @MarthaStewart Encyclopedia of Crafts Book @beachbrights http://bit.ly/8Nz5qR 

3. +1 entry, blog about this giveaway.

4. Giveaway Open to ALL, no PO Boxes, ends Monday 1-25-10.

 MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!

THIS IS HOW I COUNT THE WINNER!

Thank you Marie for this opportunity!

XOXO

One-Yard Wonders and a GIVEAWAY!

Photographs © John Gruen from One-Yard Wonders by Rebecca Yaker and Patricia Hoskins, 
used with permission from Storey Publishing

Author: Rebecca Yaker and Patricia Hoskins

Photographer: John Gruen

Storey Publishing

2009

Specs: 304 pages, 8 x 8.5

ISBN: 978-1-60342-449-3

My Review: Exactly what the title says, "One-Yard Wonders".  This book is about creating and sewing projects with one yard of fabric.  The book is divided into 11 chapters: Sewing Fundamentals, Dwell Redux, Household Affairs, Craft Organization, On the Go, From Head to Toe, Carry it All, Outfit your Small Wonder, Accessorize your Little One, Playtime and your Furry Friends.  There is also an envelope included with pattern pieces, a glossary, resources and applique pieces section.  Did I mention the the book is spiral bound? I just love when a craft book goes above and beyond and makes my life easier by laying flat.  This book truly includes it all.

Photographs © John Gruen from One-Yard Wonders by Rebecca Yaker and Patricia Hoskins, 
used with permission from Storey Publishing

The publisher would only let me share with you 3 photographs. Trust me, I wanted to share a lot more. There is so much in this book I want to sew and give as gifts. There is so much in this book I want to sew and keep. How many times have you gone into a fabric store and shopped the remnants for bargains or what about those left over fabric yards from other jobs?  Not only do you save money with these projects only using one yard but it opens up a whole new world for all those left over fabric scraps.

Photographs © John Gruen from One-Yard Wonders by Rebecca Yaker and Patricia Hoskins, 

used with permission from Storey Publishing

They say that the best reviews are short and sweet. That after about 200 words people lose interest.  So let me get to the point.  Buy this book for the following reasons and you will not be disappointed: the projects come with easy to follow instructions, the projects are fast to complete, the projects are simple,  the projects will save you money on materials, the projects make fantastic gifts (& keepsakes), there is a project for just about anyone included in this book. Buy this book.

Photographs © John Gruen from One-Yard Wonders by Rebecca Yaker and Patricia Hoskins, 

used with permission from Storey Publishing

Projects of note that I can't wait to complete: Clothespin Apron (pg. 51), Origami Organizer (pg. 88), Toddler Pinafore Smock Top (pg. 188), Toddler Art Smock (pg. 214), Dog Walking Coat (pg. 272), Feline-Friendly Tepee (pg. 276). There are over 100 other items to choose from. What will you be sewing?

5 out of 5 stars

From the Publisher: Look at all you can make with just one yard of fabric! 101 fun and stylish sewing projects range from clothes and accessories to toys, home decor, baby items, pet beds, bags, and much more. All projects require no more than a single yard of fabric, and most can be completed in just a few hours. Simple step-by-step instructions, plus templates and pattern pieces where needed, make it easy to create something wonderful!

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

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Giveaway Time!! 

Leave me a comment with your contact information & one lucky person will win a copy of "One-Yard Wonders".

Contest ends Monday, Jan 8th.

Limited to US & Canada only.

&
Click the picture to enter Storey Publishing's Yard of the Month Contest. Win free fabric for a year!

XOXO-
*Special Thanks to Alee from Storey Publishing for allowing me to review and giveaway a copy*

Awesome Book Alert GIVEAWAY: What Shall We Do Today?

What Shall We Do Today?

60 Creative Crafting Projects For Kids

Author: Catherine Woram
Ryland Peters & Small
August 2009
ISBN: 9781845978877
Specifications:
160 pages, 300 color photos, 9' x 9.25"


My Review: I enjoyed this book!  In fact, I have marked several of the projects to complete over the Thanksgiving holidays. For this review, I completed the Snow Globes project on page 129. Max and his friends had so much fun doing this project. The Snow Globes were so easy and relatively fast for my 5 year old's attention span -- a perfect combination!

The projects range from the classics; Paper Mache, Finger Puppets to some newer projects; Crystallizing Pansies, Modeling with Balsa Wood. The color pictures are bright and descriptive. The instructions average around 5 step and are easy to follow.  The items needed for the crafts are simple to find.

The book is divided into 4 sections; Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Very creative!  Some of the additional projects I can't wait to try...Pompoms, Peanut Heart, Pumpkin Birdseed Feeder and the Snow Globes (see below for my pictures & snow globe tutorial).

From the Publisher: For children, the experience of creating is every bit as important as the end result. Making, baking and growing will fire their imaginations and offers an inspiring alternative to endless hours spent in front of the computer or TV screen. What Shall We Do Today? is packed with more than 60 colourful, fun and imaginative projects by Catherine Woram, designed especially for boys and girls aged between three and 12 years. The book is arranged by season, and each section is crammed full of ideas for fun crafts, great gifts and pretty decorations to keep children busy during the long summer days and rainy afternoons alike. Every project can be completed using readily available materials and in five or fewer steps – just follow the step-by-step instructions and you can't go wrong!

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Here are the Snow Globes from page 128.  Max had a blast adding all the ingredients to the jar and picking out an ornament.  The night before we planned to make these snow globes, I glued all the ornaments to the lids and let them dry overnight. I also sealed the ornament with a spray polyurethane. This is not noted in the instructions.

I bought all my items from Walmart.

1. Glass Jars

2. Distilled Water

3. Glycerin

4. Clear Liquid Dish Soap

5. Glitter

6. Strong Waterproof Glue

7. Ornament/Figurine

8. Craft Silicone Sealant, optional

Glue the ornament to the jar lid. Let dry overnight and spray with sealant (polyurethane).

I used baby food jars for the smaller snow globes.

Fill the jar with distilled water. Get it as full as you can but take into consideration the weight of the ornament.

Add approximately 2t of glycerin, 1/2t of dish soap.

Add 5-6t of glitter.

Add silicon sealant around the lid for a leak proof seal. Shake & enjoy!

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GIVEAWAY

Because I loved this book so much, I am giving away a copy! If you follow my blog, you are already entered. For an additional entry and to increase your chances of winning you can do the following:


(+1 entry) Twitter about this book/contest with the link to this post, make sure you leave me a comment telling me you have twittered.


(+1 entry) leave me a comment, any comment!


Contest ends Friday, November 27th. Canada & US Residents Only (Sorry!).

XOXO-

You can buy What Shall We Do Today by Catherine Woram from Amazon and other fine book retailers.

**Thank you Marny from Ryland Peters & Small for the opportunity to review this book**