Booksology A friend who loves knitting recommends Knitting Without Tears by Elizabeth Zimmerman, published in 1971. She says it’s a classic by a knitting teacher who wrote simple instructions for beginners. However, there are many handicraft books available these days. Whether you’re making unique treats and gifts for family and friends or learning a new skill, there’s plenty to explore. These authors share their passion, expertise, and cultural art form with our readers.
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New Sashiko: A Fresh Approach to Japanese Embroidery by sashikonami
Sashiko is a traditional form of Japanese embroidery that has been around for centuries. Used both for decoration and reinforcement of worn fabrics. Sashikonami is famous for her clear explanations and large photos. It is accessible to beginners and experienced embroiderers alike.
Fourth Wing: Official Coloring & Sticker Book by Entangled and Lydia Fenwick
Confusingly, there are two new “official” Force Wing coloring books, both from Entangled. I like the one with the gold cover linked above. A traditional coloring book with beautiful line drawings of characters and scenes, thick paper, and a few stickers. Fourth Wing: The Official Coloring Book has a black cover and focuses more on color reproduction of fan art than coloring pages. One may be more to your taste than the other.
Making Happy Stuff: 20 Fun and Sustainable Sewing Projects by Suchin Lascelles
Sue-Ching Lascelles (@suechinglascelles on Instagram) has gained a following with her quirky and creative projects, including a costume that resembles a disco ball. This book is about upcycling and transforming items that might otherwise have been thrown away.
“The Backyard Bird Journal: Pages for writing, sketching, and living deeply in nature” by Amy Tan
Yes, the author of The Joy Luck Club and many other novels is also passionate about birding and conservation. I love when authors share their interests outside of writing with their readers. This diary, with her illustrations and commentary, is an appendix to her 2024 nonfiction book, The Backyard Bird Chronicles. This beautiful journal is versatile and low-pressure, allowing you to sketch, reflect, and record your observations.
Great British Baking Show 2024: Comfort Bakes from the Bake Off Team
love great british baking show?You’ll love the comfort inside the book inspired by the show. The book sections include cakes, biscuits (cookies) and bread and reflect the focus of each week of the show. The instructions are easy to follow and take common allergies into account. This is one of several cookbooks written by the show’s judges and contestants.
Bella Coco Crochet Stitch Library: My Top 100 Stitches, Borders, and Motifs by Sarah-Jayne Fragola
YouTube author @SarahJayneFragola founded Bella Coco Crochet. This book is a collection of her favorite patterns, ranging in difficulty from beginner to experienced. This is a companion to the Bella Coco Crochet Stitch Card Deck, which is a pattern card deck. Deck sold separately. Some crocheters find it easier to select and learn individual patterns in this more portable format.
Want more great books about “grandma’s” hobbies? Check out these bookworm hobbies and other great craft books.
