Cool Craft: Explore Your Creativity!

Craft is back and people of all ages are discovering, or re-discovering, the joys of making something by hand. Not only is it a great antidote to conspicuous consumerism, it also gives you something to do while winding down, gossiping, watching TV or listening to your favorite music.

The projects in this book are simple enough for the complete beginner with clear instructions and tips on basic techniques. The designs are deliberately chosen so that even a novice will be able to achieve a good finish and ensuring that "home-made" is something smart and even chic and not a term of abuse. Cool Craft aims to lure style-conscious people into craft with the promise of things to make that they can be proud of and happy to wear or use.

Divided into 7 chapters, each chapter is introduced with an opener with a photograph (showing one or two projects and possibly some materials) and a "mission statement". Under each category there will be advice on materials, techniques and tips followed by ideas and some specific projects, all accompanied by lots of illustrations.

This is a book for all ages and for everyone who has wanted to try their hand at craft.

Contents: Knitting; Sewing; Stitching; Appliqué; Cross-stitch; Tapestry; Patchwork (straight edges only); Quilting (straight lines only); Paper; Modelling clay (Fimo); Found objects; Design and technology; Handy Crafts; Computer aided design; Pattern-making; Templates and motifs.

Bridget Bodoano is an author and illustrator. Her books include Simple Style (with Julia Bird), Handywoman's Workbook, 101 Ideas for Living Rooms, Little Book of Quick Cleaning Tips and Marie-Claire Maison Colour among others.