The Belle & Boo Book of Crafts: 25 Enchanting Projects to Make for Children

Through 25 whimsical projects, from an Explorer's Satchel to a Pirate Play Tent, get all the know-how you need to create a world that captures the freedom of childhood, timeless fun, and adventure—templates and patterns included.
     Belle is a little girl with a brown bob, the odd scratch on her knee, and an insatiable curiosity about the natural world, while her pet rabbit, Boo, a flopsy brown bunny, is her faithful friend and confidant. Along with their many friends, Belle and Boo inhabit a sweetly nostalgic world where they spend their days playing in a pirate tree house, cloud-spotting from hot-air balloons, or riding a fairground carousel.
     The Belle and Boo Book of Crafts offers 25 one-of-a-kind projects we can create to bring more magic and make-believe into our lives. Sewing projects include a cuddly toy rabbit, a clothesline play tent, and even an explorer's satchel. Make a robust beanbag, a tooth fairy pillow for your child's room, or a pull-along stuffed elephant with a sweet ribbon bow. Also included are knitting, embroidery, and papercraft projects to decorate your home and brighten your day.

BELLE and BOO are characters and a brand created by artist Mandy Sutcliffe, who is known for her nostalgic storybook-style illustrations for children, and her business partner, Kate Shafe. Belle and Boo are also featured in art prints, stationery, party goods, clothing, accessories, printed fabrics, and other homeware items.

MANDY SUTCLIFFE was born in Stockport, England, and studied illustration at Leeds University. While studying in Paris, Mandy spent hours drawing and painting in parks. While there, Mandy first heard the name "Belle" and began to develop the little girl character who would go on to star in her children's stories and lifestyle products. Mandy has drawn on her own childhood memories to create the world of Belle and Boo, basing many of their adventures on her own experiences. Mandy lives in Bristol with her partner and their young twin sons, Ellis and Sam.