Monday, 28 January 2008

The Crafters' Way 37

I write a weekly Craft Column for a local paper. Each week I share it here with bloggers. I'm a big fan of borrowing craft books from your local library. You can try before you buy. Lucky for me our libraries are well stocked with some excellent titles.


The Pine Rivers Shire Council Library at Pathways has a wonderful variety of craft books to borrow. Many of these books are recent releases. Borrowing craft books from the Library is an inexpensive and convenient way to learn a new craft. The Pathways Library is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm. Thursday 9.00 am – 8.00pm. Saturday & Sunday 10.00 am – 3.00 pm.


The Encyclopedia of Pastel Techniques by Judy Martin (741.235 MAR)

This book is aimed at the budding pastel artist. With chapters on Pastel Types, Techniques and Themes it provides solid information with clear illustrations. I hear you saying that you can’t draw. Don’t worry, the techniques described here can be used effectively with your scrapbooking, card making or altered art. The chapter on pastel types is particularly helpful for the novice. There is sure to be a type that is suitable for your craft and budget. The gallery photos of pastel painting are sure to inspire even the most artistically challenged.


The Complete Crazy Patchwork by Anne Hulbert (746.46 HUL)

The Front Cover of this book caught my attention and I wasn’t disappointed with the content. This book covers a whole range of techniques, from the traditional Victorian through to the more contemporary. The author encourages you to discard templates and cut your pieces freehand. This can sound a little scary for people who have always used the 5 sided shape however this freedom of shape will lead to a whole new dimension. The author also explains a variety of techniques for piercing your fabrics together including using fusible webbing. I loved these ideas, it means I can get to fun part much faster. The book includes sections on fabric/thread choices including use of leather and plastics; appliqué, ribbon work and beadwork; treatment of patches including pleating, ruching and padding. Together with a comprehensive illustrated glossary of stitches this book will be invaluable for both beginner and the more experienced crafter.

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