Craft Focus - Apr/May (Issue 72)

79 BOOK REVIEWS WEAVING WITH LITTLE HANDMADE LOOMS By Harumi Kageyama £12.99 ISBN 978-1-78221-690-2 Search Press Featuring 25 exquisite makes, this new book showcases one of this year’s biggest trends on a miniature scale. Projects include home décor essentials such as table mats and tiny wall hangings through to must- have accessories like brooches, card cases, rings and purses. Materials used include everything from classic yarn to ribbon, suede and pipe cleaners. Harumi Kageyama shows how to make little looms using easy-to-find items like cardboard, paper and pins and this small-scale craft is ideal for working on the go. We say: Using a selection of basic materials, this charming guide offers plenty of inspiration for crafters of all abilities. THE ART OF CIRCULAR YOKES By Kerry Bogert £19.99 ISBN 978-1-63250-671-9 F+W Media Inc The timeless art of knitting with nearly invisible shaping allows for painterly colouring, illustrative lace and beautifully chiselled cables. This new guide by Kerry Bogert shows readers how to recreate these techniques, with extra tips from Holli Yeoh on achieving a customised fit. The book includes a collection of 15 circular yoke pullovers and cardigans from a range of well-known designers including Jenn Steingass, Kate Gagnon Osborn, Jennifer Wood and Andrea Cull. We say: No handknit wardrobe is complete without a circular yoke sweater and this beautiful volume will enable crafters to create an heirloom piece for their own personal collection. Knitting Weaving THE PAPER FLORIST By Suzi McLaughlin £18.99 ISBN 978-0-85783-537-6 Kyle Books Paper floristry is incredibly popular, and this versatile craft encompasses everything from single stems to full- scale centrepieces. Made using basic and inexpensive materials, Suzi McLaughlin’s step- by-step tutorials cover a gorgeous array of blooms including bluebells, poppies, peonies and cherry blossom. The author shows how to create everything from lifelike flowers to imaginative hybrids and each make is accompanied by a template and full instructions. We say: Suzi McLaughlin has created bespoke installations for everyone from Jo Malone to Harvey Nichols and is now set to bring her stunning creations to a wider craft audience. Papercraft Cal ligraphy CALLIGRAPHY & LETTERING: A MAKER’S GUIDE £16.95 978-0-50029-430-7 Thames & Hudson Published in association with the V&A, this new title showcases some of the museum’s finest calligraphy works, providing a new understanding and insight into letterforms. There’s 15 step-by-step projects and detailed instructions that lead readers through a range of classic styles including Gothic, italics, vintage-inspired writing and chalkboard lettering. Makes include a handmade booklet, menu and gift tags. We say: Packed with inspiration and practical advice, this volume offers a great starting point to crafters interested in calligraphy.