I like books. A Lot.  I also like craft books.  A Lot.

So I’ve been looking at what’s coming out in the next few months in case there is anything that looks interesting and that I might want to buy.


First up, one to avoid surely.  How interesting that you can make handbags out of fat-quarter quilting fabric - not.  Honestly think about it, do you really want to make a bag that looks like a portable quilt?  I think not.  I haven’t browsed through this book yet as it’s not released until 25th November, but from what I can see, it looks like some pretty standard stuff - the only difference being you can use quilting scraps to make your “stylish” bags.

My advice is don’t bother.  Buy yourself a half or one yard/metre of nice fabric and do it properly.


Now this one does look a little more interesting, but of course that could be deceiving since I haven’t seen the contents yet and I won’t until after 9th December.  It is written by Brigett Artise who is a fashion designer, and a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, so I’m going to assume she knows what she’s talking about for now.  You can also check out her website here

Ok, one more and then I need to get busy on some Christmas projects.


This is a nice book, especially if you are interested in Japan and sewing! Any time I’ve made a kimono I haven’t used a pattern since they are basically a series of squareish shapes sewn together. However, if you are interested in achieving a more authentic look, then maybe this book is for you. Check out ebay also for sales of vintage kimono fabric, you can pick up some real bargains and some really beautiful silk.

Don’t forget to check out the lists of recommended craft and sewing books by clicking on the Buy Stuff tab at the top of the site.

PS  happy birthday to my nephew who is 12 today