Thank You Notes: 40 Handmade Ways to Show You're Grateful

How rare is it to find a crafts book with contemporary designs that zing, but words that somehow fall flat? This Massachusetts-based already-published authorial duo has created 40 cards in a retro (and simple) style to serve as thank-yous for not just tangible gifts but also the presence of time and friendship. Each includes a roster of materials with step-by-step directions, with color photographs illustrating strategic moments in the do-it-yourself mode. Some render choices of the more creative variety: a gallon-size merci buckets photo-collaged paint can, a well-decorated plastic bag filled with candies, and a thanks a latte holder ready for a thank-you coffee card. Yet the first chapter, centered on materials and tools, does little more than name the types that can be used. Plus the actual design instructions can be vague or misleading: Find something round to trace. Or use bone folder to score and fold with no description. And flowers, as specified on the materials list, give little else to guide the crafter. Nonetheless, any card beats an e-mail thank-you! --Barbara Jacobs