Crafts & design

From making the first cut to applying the finish, this comprehensive reference details every aspect of woodcarving. All the essentials are covered for beginning woodworkers, such as how to choose appropriate woods; how to set up a wood shop; how to select, use, and sharpen tools; and how to perform fundamental techniques, such as the push cut, pull cut, stop cut, and slicing cut. General carving styles, from classical to whimsical to rustic, are also covered, as are the basic steps of power carving. Eight projects designed to help ... read more

This title features 300 specially commissioned photographs of adorable teddy bears from around the world. It contains information about the styles, designers and makers, from antique Steiff bears to modern artist bears. It tells the story of how the teddy bear became a child's best friend. This is the ultimate book for teddy bear lovers.

Few people learn to sew from their mothers anymore but many would love to master this rewarding and enjoyable skill. "Sewing Basics" is the ultimate bible for sewing at home, making sewing accessible for all. Covering fabrics, sewing machines, hand sewing, fitting, finishing, trouble-shooting and more, it will soon have you approaching a needle and thread with confidence. Both for beginners learning how to hem and for more experienced sewers who need help dealing with difficult fabrics, "Sewing Basics" is an invaluable reference to... read more

More than any other people in the world, Kiwis live their lives in the backyard. Whether it's a quarter acre or a tiny patch of lawn, owhether you aspire to a burgeoning veggie garden and a few chooks or to relaxing by a palm-edged pool, a good spot for your barbecue is always a must. The Kiwi Backyard Handbook is an essential if you're planning a garden makeover. It contains more than 15 easy but impressive projects with step-by-step photographs to stir up your creativity, along with a wealth of good advice to get you start... read more

"After rifling through her cupboards and rummaging through her drawers, Marjorie Massey has discovered yet more of her charming cross-stitch patterns which she shares with us in Made in France: Cross-stitch Samplers. In alternating blues and reds, Massey's designs are timeless and modest. 8 LOOSELEAF PATTERNS included.

Packed with breathtaking photographs, this tribute to Alexander McQueen (1969-2010) celebrates the incredible creations of an iconic, imaginative, and inspirational fashion designer whose work turned heads and hearts all over the world. He was a major fashion figure, famous throughout the world, especially the US (where he is a celebrity-favourite with clients including Sarah Jessica Parker, Penelope Cruz and Nicole Kidman) and Japan. McQueen's dramatic designs, also been worn by celebrities including Bjork, Lady Gaga and Rihanna, ... read more

Tapping into the handmade revival, and a renewed appreciation of lost home-making skills, this is a book of simple, contemporary and very covetable sewing projects that require little skill, ranging from children's toys to napery, cushions, decorations, bedlinen, bags and simple items of clothing such as shorts and aprons. Projects will be presented in room-by-room themes and beautifully photographed on location in a contemporary home and in the author's warehouse-style studio. Each project will be accompanied by photos and are sui... read more

Calligraphy, the art of elegant, beautiful lettering, has increased in popularity over the last several years. From brides who want to address their wedding invitations to do it yourselfers who want to prepare certificates or make a family tree, and even for art journalers and scrapbookers who like creative text in their works, calligraphy books and classes are hot. This book will spark the interest of the calligraphy novice by introducing a new approach to lettering, one that combines a lively combination of traditional lettering ... read more

Since Collette Dinnigan became the first Australian to launch her ready-to-wear collection in Paris in 1995, Australian and New Zealand fashion designers have become increasingly recognized and admired in the international arena. "Fashion" documents the countries' current key players, showcasing the work of 70 leading antipodean designers of women's and men's fashion. This important book looks at the fresh newcomers as well as those who have weathered the industry's ups and downs and are as relevant today as they were several decad... read more

Encourages creativity, with illustrations to colour in and designs to finish off, as well as simple ideas for making and doing - how to make a sari, turn a napkin into a headscarf, dye a t-shirt, etcetera. This book features illustrations that span both vintage fashions and contemporary designs from the illustrator's own imagination.

This is an essential source book of instructions for making 12 beautiful traditional quilts, both hand-stitched and machine-worked.

Knitting small toys is an absorbing and addictive hobby and homemade teddies have a special charm all of their own. The Knitted Teddy Bear has patterns to knit more than twelve gorgeous teddy bears, ranging in style and size. You will find traditional-style heirloom bears for serious teddy affictionados; for children there are bears with their own wardrobe of clothes; and there are tiny teds for the miniature bear enthusias The instructions are easy to follow and there are clear diagrams showing how to sew up, thread-joint, and cre... read more

A new generation of metalcasters need up-to-date practical information on techniques, processes, equipment, and materials. The topics include: patination of cast metals; working with chemically bonded molds; newest molding and casting processes; and newest pattern-making techniques. Bill Ammen's lifetime of experience in the trade makes him the ideal guide to the time-honored craft of metalcasting.

Deals with patchwork, quilting and applique techniques. Suitable for both the beginners as well as the committed quilters, this book features over 15 projects including cot quilts, bed quilts, lap quilts, bags, cushions, wall hangings, table mats and runners, and other projects for the home.

"Quilting" by Sarah Fielke is a journey of discovery. It can be challenging to master the many different quilting techniques and this book provides an accessible way to try out new colours, textures and methods, and in the process build upon quilting skills. The ten pairs of quilts featured are designed to be like little lessons: a dolly quilt - so-named because it is small enough to cover a doll - and a larger quilt made from the techniques learned in the construction of the dolly. This title helps you discover how, from little th... read more

The most complete guide to sewing basics People are always looking for ways to cut expenses and be creative and stylish at the same time. Learning to sew is a great way to arm yourself with the skills to repair and create clothing and furnishings for yourself and your family for little to no cost. But learning how to sew and how to choose the tools and supplies to begin sewing can be confusing. Now, you can turn to this hands-on, friendly guide for the most up-to-date information, the best techniques, and fun projects for learning... read more

The world of fashion illustration has had a sensational renaissance in the last 5 years, but the art form goes back to the beginning of the 20th century and today's exponents are still benefiting from some of the styles, shapes and colours of fashion illustrators from decades ago. Whether they work with traditional pencils, crayons and watercolours or with a digital pen, fashion illustrators today will find inspiration from these 200 images. This volume collates the best fashion illustration that was captured in the pages of the i... read more

Presents designs, plans and building advice for anyone to build their own cost-effective, wood fired oven.

Learn techniques every scrimshaw carver needs for true proficiency in this traditional art form. Over 130 clear color photos illustrate ivory carving with hand and power tools, color and power engraving and painting, and practices in the care, conservatio

This is a crash-course on printing with techniques, materials and surfaces that can all be done in the home. Every project features Yellow Owl Workshop's sought-after motifs and the author's art-school style illustrations. This title is full of original ideas for things to make and use, such as jar labels, pillows and a stationary set. "Print Workshop" grabs readers hand and leads them through a crash-course on printing with techniques, materials and surfaces they never dreamed they could take on at home. It can be as simple as car... read more