Steampunk Softies: Scientifically-Minded Dolls from a Past That Never Was - Softcover

Skeate, Sarah; Tedman, Nicola

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1449406009 ISBN 13: 9781449406004

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2011

Synopsis

A wonderful combination of Victorian aesthetic and modern crafting, these eight adorable stuffed creations make perfect gifts or accessories for the thousands of dedicated steampunk fans.

Sarah Skeate and Nicola Tedman offer crafters an array of charmingly raffish characters inside Steampunk Softies: 8 Scientifically Minded Dolls From a Past That Never Was. Even if you're unfamiliar with the term "steampunk," chances are you've already discovered it through the works of Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, Tim Burton, Mary Shelley, or Lemony Snicket. Steampunk is an artistic movement that includes stories involving steam-powered versions of modern technology in a fictionalized Victorian setting.

Staying true to steampunk style, Skeate and Tedman's inventive Steampunk Softies feature prominent science fiction and fantasy elements, as well as anachronistic inventions and props. In addition, many have dual roles that add practicality to their punk existence--the Lady makes an excellent paperweight, while the Illusionist's cloak doubles as a screen cleaner. 

Despite their meticulous detailing, Steampunk Softies are simple enough for even a sewing novice to construct. A short biography accompanies each softie, providing a background story for each character. Also included are a complete list of supplies, illustrated step-by-step blueprints, and a handy, back-of-the-book reference section that provides tips on aging and distressing project materials.

Venture full steam ahead into your next crafting project with Steampunk Softies.

About this title

About the Author:

Sarah Skeate, is an illustrator with a steampunk fetish who just happens to work in publishing.

Nicola Tedman is a model maker for theater and television.

Review:

If you are at all keen on fantasy and science fiction then you will have noticed that there is a new sub-genre around - steampunk. Think a Victorian era that never quite existed a la H G Wells, Jules Verne, Philip Pullman or Stephen Hunt and you have it in a nutshell. Inside this book are several models constructed from felt and many other things in a style that will be familiar to anybody who owns these author's other collaboration Zombie Felties (also reviewed on this site). Meet sinister illusionist Tompion Zeitgeist with his mesmerizing eyes, or Floyd Fastnkight the explorer who is ready for anything. Then there is Charity Storm with her own wings, and Minerva Dupine who is every inch the Victorian lady detective. If you like steampunk you will be familiar with all these character types, and now you can make eight of them for yourself. This is an attractively presented book with its cream pages delicately bordered with images such as cogs and top hats, and each model has full instructions complete with rather small but informative print, a long list of what you need (all sorts of bits and pieces but nothing expensive) and some useful drawn staged diagrams. There is a full page photo of the finished product along with small photos showing it from all angles as well as a handy line drawing pointing out various features. This is a great book for anybody who likes making things and reading steampunk novels (such as this reviewer) and has the added appeal of being different to any other book about making dolls. Note please that although they can be described as such they are not playthings for children being possessed, like all self-respecting steampunk folk, of sharp parts. Lots of fun.-Myshelf.com Create the best-ever steampunk character dolls from one book. They're great-looking projects, but easy enough for novices. All the characters share key steampunk characteristics and are rooted in a past that never quite existed. Clear blueprints and step-by-step are supplied for every character.-Machine Knitting Monthly

About this edition

• Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 1449406009
• ISBN 13: 9781449406004
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 80