Bookshelf

On my reading list at the moment is “The Handmade Marketplace” by Kari Chapin and “The Crochet Stitch Bible” by Betty Barnden.

“Handmade Marketplace” is great if you’re making things and wanting to sell them either at markets or online. There are lots of handy hints and Chapin has called in a great host of experts to offer their perspective on a wide variety of topics.

In the latest issue of Hazed, I wrote a review (page 29) for “Handmade to Sell” by Kelly Rand. This is another fabulous book on selling your handmade items and I highly recommend that one too, if making and selling is your niche. I especially loved her tutorial on making a light box for taking great photos.

Book Rave: ‘Whole Larder Love’

Winning something is always exciting. But winning something you eagerly wanted, is extra thrilling.

The last issue of ‘Extra Curricular‘ was right up my alley. Self-sufficiency. Not that we live that lifestyle as yet, but there’s much to aspire to. Supporting locally made, living simply and loving the people around you.

As a part of this, ‘Whole Larder Love‘ by Rohan Anderson made a feature in the magazine, complete with a copy of his book to giveaway.

Book Rave: Minxy Vintage

My Christmas present from Hubby finally arrived today.  That’s right, just in time for Valentines Day.  It’s not that he’s been particularly slack, mind you.  This book was only released on 2nd Feb, so I had to wait.  Patiently.

Growing Up Sew Liberated

My sewing ventures have been a little “boring” lately.  Lots of baby gifts, the likes of which you’ve seen here before.  But I do have a new book that I’m loving and the projects are just begging to be made!

Upcycle: T-Shirt to Baby Hat

There is something about a baby in a hat with ears that makes me just melt.  I don’t consider myself a “clucky” kind of person, but this gets me everytime.  I mean, really, how can you not smile at that?

She may berate me for it in years to come, but I don’t really care.  I think she’s gorgeous.  Although I do wish I had used a better setting on the camera for the photo.  Ah, we live and learn.

Simply made using an old T-Shirt, some scrap fabric and a touch of ribbon.  It’s fantastically quick to sew up, yet looks like you’ve spent a lot of time and effort on it (my favourite type of project!).

Maternity Dress and Beyond

Pregnancy during summer requires a cool dress or two and this little number will keep you looking good even beyond labour!

It features a modesty panel that allows you to breastfeed and I must admit, I missed wearing dresses while nursing my little boy.

Book Rave: Handmade Beginnings

Anna Maria Horner has filled a definite gap in the market with this gem.  A book with 24 sewing projects for the new mum or mum to be.

We are not just talking knitted booties and frumpy mumsie tops, but rather clothing and accessories for both mum and baby that combine both function and fashion.  And of course she’s included the ultimate pattern for both a nappy bag or a “man” bag.  Love it!

I’m still deciding whether to begin with the reversible toddler pants, adjustable maternity/nursing dress or the decadent house slippers.  The photos just make them all seem so wonderful.  Oh and did I mention I’m pregnant again?

This book is a brilliant investment for any sewing-capable mum to be or even if you just need ideas for baby shower gifts.  It’s gotta be one of the best baby gifts I’ve ever had!  A huge thanks to my wonderful, thoughtful Aunty for the pressie xoxo

Handmade Beginnings by Anna Maria Horner.  Published by Wiley.com

Related posts:  Quick Change Trousers, Mariposa Dress

This Little Piggy …

This little piggy bed warmer (or wheat bag) drew squeals of delight from my 1 year old.  So gorgeous!  It’s is made from an old flannette shirt to make it extra cuddly and looks nicer on the bed than a standard wheat bag.

“Sewing Green” Book Rave

I can’t believe that my 5 local bookstores have failed to stock this book!  I’m yet to find anything else so yummy.  At least my library is on the ball though and after excitedly picking up a copy this morning, I’ve already drooled over each page making it useless for anyone else!