New book from House of Alistair

Alistair Macdonald, the creative force behind House of Alistair, is publishing a new book in January. Love to Sew: Quilting on the Move features 18 beautiful hand-sewn patchwork gift ideas all made using English paper piecing. This popular, easy technique uses fabric that's cut and folded over a paper template. The resulting shapes are stitched together by hand.

Projects include a pretty baby's playmat, a stylish gentleman's scarf, a useful hobby bag, a tea cosy, tote bag and make-up purse. While there's some machine sewing required to put each design together, crafters can hand-sew if they prefer. Templates are included at actual size, and there are basic step-by-step instructions.

Alistair Macdonald studied fashion design at Central St Martins School of Art and Design before establishing House of Alistair in 2008. He works on a wide variety of projects including high fashion and film costume, as well as running a successful haberdashery and giftware business. The new title is published by Search Press (www.searchpress.com). For fine haberdashery supplies, visit www.houseofalistair.com