Books are great as gifts
A quirky collection of great books that would make excellent gifts.
For the Teenager:
Cool JewelsCool Jewels: Beading Projects for Teens by Naomi Fujimoto, published by Kalmbach (July 10, 2007)
This book has big appeal to teens (and a good resource for beginners too), with sections on finding your own style and personalising your designs, making use of different types of beads and accessories and techniques is all included. There are some great ideas on charm bracelets, beaded belts, natural beads and materials. This book is published by Bead Style Magazine and definitely has that magazine feel to it (without the ads), bold easy to follow directions, colourful images and lots and lots of projects. Good value and a great gift.
For the knitter:
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee Casts Off: The Yarn Harlot’s Guide to the Land of Knitting by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, published by Storey Publishing, LLC (March 22, 2007)
Stephanie does it again with another gem of a book filled with wisdom and stories and advise. Not only a good read but useful too. There’s knitting sports, guide to good knitting reads, knitting for peace, environmental issues, fabulous notable knitters, how to find knitting friends …. and lots more.
For the Geek:
Extreme Office Crafts: Creative & Devious Ways to Waste Office Supplies & Company Time by Jimmy Knight, published by Lark Books (March 28, 2007)
Hilarious and outrageous book - crafts include making puppets from plastic water cups, there are paper clip creatures, memo pad voodoo dolls, sticky note mosaics and a whole heap more ridiculously stupid and crazily funny things to make (while you should be working!).
For the beginner sewer:
Sew-It Kit: 15 Simple and Stylish Sewing Projects for the Home by Amy Butler, Colin McGuire (Photographer), published by Chronicle Books (September 6, 2007)
This is a terrific little kit - in a hard box container fabric samples and matching cotton, information booklet, recipe cards and patterns. Very neatly and snugly packaged - a gorgeous gift. Patterns include a laundry bag, recycled wool blanket pillow cover (my personal favourite), a kitty tunnel and sleeping mask - and a few more besides. Very stylish. (one commenter mentioned that most of the patterns in here are not new - that is true - so please be aware of that if purchasing for yourself and you already own the book)
One lucky reader who leaves a comment telling us what their favourite Amy Butler pattern that they have made is - can win a great Amy Butler package - including In Stiches (the book), Sew It Kit, Sunblooms Journal, Sunblooms Notecards and Sunblooms Stationery Box.
Comments will be closed on Monday and the winner announced next week,
For the kids and kids at heart:
Softies: Simple Instructions for 25 Plush Pals by Therese Laskey, with introduction by Leah Kramer and photos by Laurie Frankel, published by Chronicle Books; Spi edition (August 6, 2007)
A practical book (spiral bound), with patterns and designs that have been submitted by various toy makers around the world. From the incredibly simple and basic (yet still fun - eg - the lonely dollop - of poo - designer Shawn Smith) to the quite advanced (two headed pig/wolf by designer Lizette Greco) and everything in between. Some of my favourites include Beck Wheeler’s Patricia strange alien doll with a huge mouth and the snow bunny by Tamar Mogendorff. There is quite a mix of designs from the arty and strange, to the eclectic and recycled to cute and fuzzy. Not everything is sewn - there is crochet and needle felting too and not everything is precious natural materials - some of these are made from garish acrylics with a bit of glue and a bit of hand stitching.
For the Gardener (who lives in Australia):
Australia’s open Gardens 2007/08 GUIDE The Essential Guide for Garden Lovers, published by ABC Books.
Gardens across Australia are open for a few months - gardeners can show off their hard work and glorious garden designs and plantings and garden architecture, and garden lovers are able to get inspiration and talk to real gardeners about their successes and failures.
September 13th, 2007 at 10:18 am
My Rural Messenger Bag is not only my favourite Amy Butler pattern that I’ve made, it’s simply one of my favourite bags. I used a really cute Amy Butler print with this magical property of going with everything I own, and a salmon lining from thrifted material. I also have good memories, because I made it with my Mom over Christmas, as my introduction to sewing (aim high sez I), and it’s one of the few times we bonded without tears. I have a feeling the pattern may have been replaced by the High Street Messenger Bag though, alas.
September 13th, 2007 at 11:55 am
I have made many of Amy Butler’s bags - from the chic Town Bag to the huge Nappy Bag, but my favourite pattern will always be the Cafe Apron. I have made dozens of them for friends - everyone loves it and it lifts cooking out of the mundane. I wish Amy would make more patterns like this one. It’s a classic.
September 13th, 2007 at 1:52 pm
Re: the Amy Butler Kit–be advised many of the patterns are duplicates of ones in her book, In Stitches. New patterns include a tissue box holder, a tote bag, a wool pillow cover, a vase cover and a square wool pincushion. It does come with fabric and thread to make the tissue cover, and the packaging is totally cute, but you may be disappointed if you think there are 15 all-new patterns.
September 13th, 2007 at 1:53 pm
This is a very tough decision, but my current favorite is the Stash and Dash bags pattern. They make fabulous gifts for friends and for myself! My all-time favorite prints are from the Gypsy Caravan line, combined, they are perfection.
September 13th, 2007 at 3:07 pm
Amy has the best line of patterns out there I love her stylish pillows and bags , but my favorite patterns so far that I’ve made are the STASH & DASH BAGS , very practical and they make wonderful gifts as well, I always carry one around with my camera , cell phone or car keys, my second favorite pattern is the High Street Messenger Bag a must have if you like to carry your laptop or other bulky goodies around with you :)
Amy has something for everyone!
September 13th, 2007 at 4:31 pm
my favourite is the simple bias cut scarf- its a great gift and a fantastic way for beginner sewers like myself. And the fabic is coveted.
September 13th, 2007 at 5:52 pm
I haven’t made one of her patterns yet but I would love to make the blue sky hat. It would be a very different sewing project for me. The other patterns I have been eyeing are the weekend travel bag and the barcelona skirt.
September 13th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
My favourite Amy Butler pattern is the swing bag, such a cute little handbag, but still very roomy. I have made a few as gifts for all the lovely girls in my life, as well as for myself :)
September 13th, 2007 at 7:00 pm
great book roundup!
my favorite amy butler project so far would have to be the pleated apron from her book. simple, classic, with wonderful details (love the waistband, pocket, + towel loop). and i am always a fan of her thorough, step-by-step directions.
September 13th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
I don’t have that many Amy B patterns, but I’ve made three of the Blue Sky Hat and I love it. Two I made out of patchwork so they are completely INSANE!
September 13th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
I would have to say that the Cabo Halter. it looks so professional (& I am not a professional sewer!) that people always ask where I bought it. Such great instructions.
September 13th, 2007 at 8:12 pm
I have not made any Amy Butle patterns yet (i have only just begun sewing), but I would love to make her Nappy Bag - it looks so stylish, and it would also be a very useful & lovely present for a pregnant relative!
September 13th, 2007 at 8:54 pm
I fell in love with Amy Butler immediately- her fabrics and patterns are awesome! Mt favorite project I’ve made is the Kimono-Style Bathrobe- so simple, clean lines, and really cozy!
September 13th, 2007 at 9:19 pm
Ooh, I didn’t know about the Sew-it Kit, and nice way to sneak a contest in here! I have made the lounge pants from her book and they are well-worn. Great easy pattern that is surprisingly flattering and I intend to make more.
September 13th, 2007 at 10:01 pm
I made the Madison bag and I love it! I’m making the Frenchy this weekend.
September 13th, 2007 at 10:26 pm
I made Amy Butler’s nappy bag for a pregnant friend. It was so nice to give her something that was super useful to a new mum but that had been designed for her (and not just for the baby) and was stylish and unique and perfectly suited to her taste. This is the only Amy Butler pattern I have made but I’d love to try some more (so I really hope I win - hee hee!).
September 13th, 2007 at 10:31 pm
I made the Cabo Halter for my teenage daughter this summer and it fit her like a dream. I’ve been sewing for a long time (30+ years) and Amy’s instructions are the best I’ve ever seen.
September 13th, 2007 at 10:58 pm
I have a few to try yet…top on my list now is the Frenchy Bag. I love that bag. I recently made the Manhattan and like that for a night out. I can’t wait to make the new skirt pattern!
All of her stuff is great. Clear instructions and a wonderful finished product.
September 14th, 2007 at 12:29 am
My favorite AB pattern is the Habo Halter Top. I just started sewing clothes this year and this has been the easiest top I’ve made so far. Her instructions are very clear and the finished top is so cute.
September 14th, 2007 at 1:14 am
I just love the Swing Swing Smock. I would be soooo happy if I could win the Amy Butler Stitch Kit! I am a long time “craft to do lister” and am just recently really delving in, making myself take the time, and loving every crafting moment. Amy Butler’s designs are fantastic!
Thanks for the contest!
September 14th, 2007 at 1:39 am
I really liked making the sleeping mask out of In Stitches. It came in real handy on a trip where we had to leave at 3:00 am!
September 14th, 2007 at 2:25 am
I love the In town bag, so cute! I so want to try more of her patterns!
September 14th, 2007 at 4:40 am
My current favorite is the Dorothy Bag - it’s the purse I’m using now. I made it up in the Rowan red chard fabric and I love it! It livens up everything I wear! I’ve taught quite a few of her patterns as sewing classes and they are all super popular!
September 14th, 2007 at 6:04 am
I love the weekender bag. I’ve seen so many terrific versions online. I love that bowling bag shape.
September 14th, 2007 at 6:33 am
I made the reversable swing bag. It was my first (& not last) Amy Butler pattern & I just love it. SO easy to make & now everyone else wants one!
September 14th, 2007 at 7:03 am
Thanks for the great book reviews- it’s great to see what’s new out there.
I think the Amy Butler Sew-It Kit is fantastic- it has all you need to get started on some fabulous projects right away, no getting home and realising you don’t have half the supplies required- brilliant!
My favorite Amy Butler pattern would probably be the Weekend Travel Bag, although I haven’t made one yet, I do recall a run of some fantastic versions on some crafty blogs a while back, and it’s definately on my to do list!
Very stylish and practical, and that would probably be what I like most about Amy’s designs- they look gorgeous and are still practical and useable, a great combination.
I would love to be in the draw for the giveaway package, thanks.
September 14th, 2007 at 7:49 am
My favorite Amy Butler bag….the covington. This little bag is an awesome little number that apparent makes up for my on-going fashion faux pas. Just the other day, our office fashionista was oogling my bag, “where did you get that cool little bag.” she asks…..my mom and I whipped it up I say. It made my day to see her perfectly-bonded-dazzling-white-tooth-jaw hit the floor. Keep those great designs coming Amy!
September 14th, 2007 at 8:35 am
Wow, I hadn’t seen this . . . I love the clutch handbag with fabric flower in “In Stitches”–super cute!(Fingers crossed!)
September 14th, 2007 at 11:44 am
The Frenchy bag is my favorite. It feels comfortable in my hand or on my shoulder, plus it’s ever so yummy looking. It’s also scaled right for me as I’m short and some bag sizes overwhelm my munchkin height.
September 14th, 2007 at 12:11 pm
I haven’t made a lot of Amy Butler patterns, but of the few I have I like the Blue Sky Hat best.
September 14th, 2007 at 12:46 pm
I love my weekender bag.
September 14th, 2007 at 2:10 pm
Ooh what a fab competition. I haven’t actually made any Amy Butler patterns but my vote would be for the stash and dash bags. They are on Reprodepot and I have got them on my list to order next time I buy some fabric. They look like they would be good for presents. I have been meaning to buy the In Stitches book for so long…!
September 15th, 2007 at 11:02 am
My favourite is the Daisy Nap Pillow. An awesome baby gift.
September 16th, 2007 at 1:09 am
I love the swing bag. I think I have made it 10 times now, at least 6 of them in different fabrics! It goes so fast and makes a great gift. Now that I’m thinking about it, I think all the sister in laws need one for Christmas!
September 16th, 2007 at 7:16 am
My favorite is the Kimono-Style Bathrobe. I made it out of this great Japanese style flowery fabric that I found at a thrift store. It is wonderfully cozy and comfy. I also love the Oversized laundry bag that I made. It makes it so comfortable to carry my laundry to the laundromat.
September 16th, 2007 at 10:04 am
I am working on the Nigella yoga bag and a messenger bag… when they are finished? well, your guess is as good as mine! ;)
September 16th, 2007 at 9:40 pm
I must admit that I’ve never made anything from this artist before. I have been lost in the woods of motherhood for too long and am longing for a personal creative outlet. With Christmas coming I feel like I can do some sewing and crafting with the excuse that it’s for a gift! Thanks for the great inspiration on your blog.
September 17th, 2007 at 1:52 am
By far, my favorite Amy Butler pattern is the Swing Bag. Versatile & big enough to carry sippy cups, makeup bags, etc. It also makes for a great gift, too!
September 17th, 2007 at 2:30 am
I love the Swing Bag! I’ve been carrying my groceries in it for three years now, and it shows almost no sign of wear!
September 17th, 2007 at 3:54 am
I love my In Town Bag. I get compliments on it all the time. I also love her Kimono style robe from In Stitches. As soon as I am done sewing for the kids I plan on making one of these for myself
September 17th, 2007 at 1:03 pm
I’ve been admiring Amy Butler’s designs for quite a while but it took the clean lines and reversibility of the Chelsea Bags make me take the plunge. It’s a great bag for carrying and stowing knitting projects!
September 17th, 2007 at 2:11 pm
Well, I must confess that I’m so addict in “Barcelona skirts” pattern :) With one pattern you can create 2 sorts of skirts and one apron !! This model of pattern is so lovely even if you have big calf !!! ( calves ??? sorry I don’t know how to write it in english )!! I love so much this skirt because it suits so well and can be reproduced in as many times as you want with so much differents fabrics that nobody can discover you only have one skirt pattern in your craftroom desk LOL !!!!! The only thing I regret is that I still have to sew one with the same fabric as shown on picture theone I adore from Lotus collection :) (Please forgive me for the englics mistakes as I’m french speaker from tiniest country called Belgium LOL)
September 18th, 2007 at 12:55 am
I love all the AB patterns. I have made the super easy Swing Bag for my mom for mothers day and she was so happy she started to cry! I am about to make the covington for a christmas present…It looks very easy and cute too. Thanks for all the info on the books:)