4 comments about Save This Shirt: Cut It. Stitch It. Wear It Now!.

1. I really like that this book turns those big, frumpy t-shirts everyone has from events and company give-a-ways into fashionable trendy clothing. Waste not, want not. I love that the idea of repurposing big shirts fits into the environmental 'reduce, reuse, recycle.' Plus, it's a cheap way to get new clothes! The book is really clear and simple, so there's no stressing over directions or fear of messing up. I definitely recommend this book.



2. If you are looking for a nice comprehensive book with lots of ideas, this is not it. I found the variety of styles to be lacking; there are very few styles to begin with, and most are either impractical to wear anywhere but a club or else similar to designs in Generation T, which I purchased at the same time. I think I got way more bang for my buck with the later; with 108 styles, I could find a bunch that suited me. Not as much with only 20 styles in this book.
   
   The book isn't terrible; please don't get me wrong. The most helpful bit is the very first design, the "favorite t" and the page demonstrating various necklines. I will use this for the basic alteration to make a shirt more comfortable, but will look elsewhere for more unique ideas. I just wanted to share the book's strengths and weaknesses to help you decide how to spend your money!



3. This is the first time that I bought a book sight unseen and based off one Amazon review. I won't be doing that again.
   
   First the positives. Spiral bound is an excellent idea! It makes it much easier to browse and I imagine it would be very useful if I were going to make any of the projects in this book. The interior- layout, full color pages, and organization- are also much appreciated. The concept is also cool, as "upcycling" our unwanted clothing into shiny new outfits is a fun and creative way to work towards zero waste. If I knew a young person who had little to no experience with sewing, this would make a pretty good gift.
   
   My biggest gripe with this book is that all 14 projects are suitable for absolute beginners. The title or description did not indicate that, so I feel mislead. For instance, the first shirt called "The Winner" is actually just reducing the size of a shirt (also called "resizing"). As with all of the projects, the neckline, sleeves/arm holes, and hem are left raw. There is no instruction that explains the options and nuances of how to finish the edges of knit materials such as t-shirts.
   
   Additionally, there is an odd choice of how many instructional images go with a project. For instance, "The Winner"- the most simple shirt recon- takes 4 pages and 8 instructional images for the book to explain. The scarf, which is literally one long strip of fabric and requires no sewing- takes up 3 pages and 8 instructional images. Move onto Racer Back "Sleeves" and you get no instructional images. Overall there is an over abundance of images, but in a few places the opposite is true.
   
   Perhaps the most perplexing thing to me though is the inclusion of an actual t-shirt with the book. Putting aside that it will leave a gap about 1" in the book once it is removed, it's antithetical to the title and mission statement of the book! If this gets reprinted someday, please skip the shirt and let us use "save" our own.
   
   Excellent topic, and probably good for those who have just discovered or want to explore clothing refashioning. If you've ever visited the Craftster forums or have any experience sewing, skip this one.



4. I decided that in my spare time I want to re-fashion my t-shirts. I shelve in the craft section in a bookstore and am quite familiar with all of the other books on t-shirt reconstruction (generation T, rip it, 99 ways to transform your t-shirt) and Save this Shirt is the one that I'm buying. I'm most excited about the t-skirt but the patterns are all creative. There are colored patterns with detailed instructions (which make it look a lot easier then the other books do) as well as photos. And it actually comes with a starter t-shirt...not too shabby.

5 comments about Knitting Art: 150 Innovative Works from 18 Contemporary Artists.

1. The photography is beautiful, and the artist's bios are inspiring. No art school needed, just the willingness to explore traditional techniques in new and inspiring ways. I love this book and all the images that it conjures in my head. It gives me permission to experiment. No telling what will happen.



2. interesting how limitless knitting can be. this is a book about artists. not to mistake as a knitter's guide.



3. This book is like an art album. You can spend by it hours, even if you will never use it in practice.



4. If anyone has doubted that knitting has come into its own as an art form, than this
   book will dispel those doubts. It is filled with photos of incredible knitted art created
   by knitting by an eclectic group of artists. The book is very beautiful and ranks with
   the most beautiful knitting books I own. I plan to make a list very soon of the most
   beautiful knitting books!
   
   In this book, we are introduced to Kathryn Alexander, a knitting artist of designer
   clothing in color schemes that are likely to remind one of parrots in the Amazon
   Rain Forests. Jeung-Hwa Park creates knitted abstract designs that remind me
   of underwater life or the micro-lives on trees. Her forms are like undulating waves
   and coral. Debbie New creates grand knitting installation pieces. " A musician and
   a scientist as well as a knitter, Debbie recently challenged herself to combine music
   and knitting by incorporating concepts of time and movement into interactive knit-
   ted sculptures." (p. 49) She has even knit a portrait of her grandmother that is
   reminiscent of Chuck Close's work. Her work is so eclectic that I haven't really
   touched the surface of her creations. Reina Mia Brill creates art dolls that are
   whimsical and fantasy-like. The are "fey knitted creatures...and each has a story
   to tell. Their exotic names suggest ideas or visions steeped in mythology." (p. 89)
   Her creations are made with copper wire, resin, paint, silver wire and brass, along
   with various yarns and fabrics. Anna Maltz makes "nude suits" that are bound to
   make you smile, maybe even guffaw. She is also an installation artist and gender
   bender.
   
   I have only touched the surface of this book. Any knitter interested in moving
   their craft towards art will love this book. Any knitter who can appreciate the
   beauty of knitting will love this book. Personally, I think everybody will love this
   book. But then again, I'm a knitter and I love everything to do with knitting!



5. This book brings knitting to an entirely different level. We think of knitting as being primarily for garments but it doesn't have to be. This expands knitting to the level of art.

1 comments about Needle Felting - to the Point: Needle Felting Techniques.

1. I recently got this book and it's worth every penny.
   
   What I particularly like about it compared to other needle felting books is that it isn't geared toward specific "projects" which don't really interest me. This is a problem I've had with project-oriented books in general - I have to figure out on my own how to transform one project into something I really want to make.
   
   Harlan is very thorough in her explanations of techniques, materials, etc., and after reading this book I feel well prepared to make creations of my own design. Her own creations are amazing and inspiring, she shows how you can make virtually anything out of a ball of wool and a needle. I can't wait to get started!

No comments about Twinkie Chan's Crochet Goodies for Fashion Foodies: 20 Yummy Treats to Wear.

4 comments about Punchneedle The Complete Guide.

1. A great book to explain what needlepunch is, the basic techniques, and the supplies needed. Also has a brief history of neeldepunch and its cultural origins. It has beautiful examples of what you can do. A few patterns are included, but not that many. A great book, especially because there are so few punchneedle books available.



2. Truth is I haven't really used this yet,about 2 years behind in projects I want to complete, so just briefly looked it over--looks good at first glance



3. I first discovered needlepunch about 20 years ago. I ordered (directly from Marinda) her first small needlepunch book, and learned a lot from it. This book covers everything you need to know, and then some. It's excellent for a beginnner, in that she really spends time (and has pictures) of how to match the fabric and needle size. That is important. She also shows how to sculpt the finished work to get dimension and texture. There is something here for everyone. I am very impressed. I have purchased a few needlepunch books over the years, and this is the best I've ever seen. The directions are very clear, and the many many pictures are so helpful. Can't say enough.
   THANKS!



4. Any needlecraft collection strong in embroidery guides will welcome PUNCHNEEDLE: THE COMPLETE GUIDE, providing an overview of materials, tools, and techniques including working with novelty threads and creating special effects. Nine embroidery projects on a range of surfaces included a photo album cover, napkins and Christmas ornaments in this highly recommended guide.

4 comments about Quick-to-Stitch Prayer Shawls (Annie's Attic: Crochet).

1. The patterns are beautiful, easy to follow, and the gifts are priceless. For anyone interested, this book is truly a gift that keeps on giving.



2. Quick-to-Stitch Prayer Shawls is a very nice and very helpful book for individuals or groups engaged in the Prayer Shawl ministry. The patterns provided are all very pretty, and range from beginner to expert skill level, so there's something for everyone, here. The prayers and blessings presented with each pattern are ideal for group or private prayer, and offer words for nearly every prayer situation. I'd recommend this book highly!



3. Great addition to your Prayer Shawl pattern library. Pretty, quick patterns; wonderful prayers that are included make it an absolutely delight.



4. In the past I have bought many Crochet instruction books. I especially enjoy using Quick to Stitch Prayers Shawls because it is perfect for my project now which is The Prayer Shawl Ministry at our church. The book is printed on good quality paper with easy to read instructions. The prayers are very meaningful & help me what to write on a note to include with the shawls.

5 comments about Japanese Kimekomi: Fast, Fun, and Fabulous Fabric Handballs!.

1. This book is wonderful! With clear directions and patterns you can create a masterpiece in one evening on your first try. It's fun and easy. I am very pleased with my first project and will be doing many more. It's a great opportunity to use my left over fabric scraps to make something beautiful. Being an experienced crafter, I already had most of the supplies and tools on hand. But this book is good for a beginner, too. It is a non-sewing project for those who do not sew and the results are elegant decorations for your home at a low cost. These fabric balls will make good gifts for the holidays.



2. Japanese Kimekomi: Fast, Fun, and Fabulous Fabric Handballs!
   Service Excellent, like wise product. I am most satisfied. Thank you. The dear lady I bought it for is delighted and has already started on a product.



3. I'm a crafter and was so anxious to get this book. Unfortunately, I found the directions inadequate and confusing and I couldn't even get past the first steps to making these beautiful balls. Maybe I'll try later on but for now it's just another book in my crafting library.



4. I'm very pleased with the condition of my Kemikome book. Also pleased with how quick it was sent to me



5. I have read the book thoroughly. The directions seem quite clear with good pictures. Any day now I am going to attempt to make one!

5 comments about Stitched in Time: Memory-Keeping Projects to Sew and Share from the Creator of Posie Gets Cozy.

1. I've stayed up way too late a couple of nights looking at this book. There are so many adorable projects in here, and it has completely inspired me to take up embroidery. I love her choice of colors and her designs are sweet and endearing without being too cutesy. I love this book.



2. This book is charming and so inspirational! It's full of wonderful projects and pictures. But, I should first tell you that I bought this book more for the author's inspirational writing style than for the projects. Also, I confess that I don't really know how to sew. But, I do love to cross-stitch and embroider. There's one project in the book that focuses on embroidery. There are many more projects that focus on basic sewing skills. But, like I said, I don't sew. So why buy the book, you may ask? Simply because of Alicia Paulson's writing style. When I'm in a creative slump and I don't want to pick up my needle, I read this book. When I'm stressed-out and I've forgotten what life can be like when I have time to cross-stitch and create things, I read this book. Alicia inspires me to pick up my needle, my hoop and my floss and just relax into the whatever project I'm working on. She's truly one-of-a-kind. Time and time again, she reminds me that these domestic arts(sewing and embroidery) are important to my life. I'm very grateful to have found her blog and her book.
   Oh and if you sew, then you'll really love this book!
   I can't wait for her second book to come out which focuses on embroidery(YAY!)



3. I just got this book after trying to decide between it and various other sewing/crafts books available. And I am so excited about my decision to purchase this one! I love so many of her ideas for keepsakes, I will be making the townhouse growth chart very soon. My daughter just started walking and now is the time to start recording her height. Being able to do that on something that will come with us no matter where we move is a great idea. I am sure that I will be trying out so many of the projects included. I absolutely love it. The directions are clear and the ideas are innovative. Thanks Alicia!



4. Anyone who hasn't discovered Alicia Paulson's work and life is missing a rare treat. Her blog (Posie Gets Cozy) keeps us creative and happy with her sewing, yarn crafts, and cooking. That she has a degree in creative writing and knows exactly what to photograph (and how to do it beautifully) enhances her work. Buy the book and introduce yourself to Alicia's world; you will see real creativity at work. You can then happily anticipate the publication of her new book next summer. I know I can't wait to see it.



5. What I love the most about this book, aside from the fantastic original projects, is knowing that the projects are really from the artist. The photographs are hers, the memories are hers and the talent is hers. This woman is incredibly talented, but you do not have to be a professional to learn from her instructions. It's a gorgeous book.

5 comments about Floral Stitches: An Illustrated Guide.

1. I have just started crazy patch quilt and this was a great book for learning how to create diffrent stitches to embelish the seams



2. Enjoyed "reading "this book. It has a monogram section that I used several times and was always pleased with the result.



3. I have many embroidery books and this is the best so far.
   
   It is the most detailed I have seen and it includes not only great
   visual step by step illustrations but information on how to design
   stitch layouts for a flower you may have in your own garden.
   
   Examples of both thread and ribbon uses are shown as well as
   information on fabric and color choices (color wheel included).
   It's a great book for those who have some experience in basic embroidery.



4. I have seen this book and can't wait to get my hands on one of my own. Just waiting for one at the right price. It is even better than Elegant Stitches and is in COLOUR. recommend



5. "Floral Stitches" is one of the most lovely books I own. It is actually a work of art, containing soothing, pleasing, delightful, and concise, informative, and inspirational content. The stitches are well- illustrated, and useful, and Montano provides exact information from an artist's eye on how to create work with depth. You will be delighted with it! Its small enough to go into my stitching tote, and I carry it everywhere I stitch. Eye-appealing! YOu can't go wrong!

5 comments about Colorful Stitchery: 65 Hot Embroidery Projects to Personalize Your Home.

1. I got this book because my 8 year old daughter wanted to learn embroidery and I also wanted to expand my knowledge of stitches and improve my technique. We both like Colorful Stitches because the instructions are clear and easy to follow, and the projects included are a visual treat. There are many unique embroidered items that would make great gifts, and are accessible to beginners and their moms too.



2. I ordered this book to learn some embroidery stitches to make Christmas presents. The pictures and directions were great, and I easily learned the stitches to complete my pillows. She bends the rules of "traditional" embroidery and uses the stitches to create something modern and gorgeous. An excellent book to learn beginner techniques. I will be ordering another book to learn even more stitches.



3. This book is not for the experienced crafter. If I had had the opportunity to flip though it before purchasing, I wouldn't have purchased it. With that said, I do think it could be useful for someone young and new to crafting. It has some good basic information and cute projects. I sent it to my 23 year old daughter and she is enjoying it much more than I.



4. I am loving the colorful, hip designs in this book! Nice photographs and well thought out directions. These projects made me want to pick up my needle right away.



5. This book is quite inspiring and cheerful. You begin to think of your ideas after seeing the projects here. I highly recommend this book.