The Crafter's Way 139 - Book Review

Here is this week's Messenger column.

The Moreton Bay Regional Council Libraries have a wonderful variety of craft books to borrow. Many of these books are recent releases. These books all came from the Pathways Library. Check with your local library for their opening hours.

 Magic Lanterns by Mary Maguire (745.593 MAG)

From the simplest lanterns to more complex examples this book has all that you need to know to safely and creatively illuminate your party. Using easy to source materials the Author explains clearly how to create spectacular effects. Worried about candles catching alight? The Author suggests using bicycle lights. This simple alternative increases your options for where you can use these lanterns. Many are suitable for Children to make with Adult supervision, however if you are yearning for some creative time on your own there are a couple of structural lanterns that should fit the bill. My favourite designs was made using aluminum cans and household scissors.


Bridal Accessories by Jacquelynne Johnson (745.5941 JOH)

If you are looking to reduce costs associated with your wedding then this book will help. Simple but dazzling effects can be created with a little time. Not much of a sewer? Not to worry. The Author uses a hot glue gun wherever possible. Even if you aren’t planning a wedding many of these suggestions will work in different colour ways and fabrics.


Wire Jewellery by Chrissie Day (745.5942 Day)

This book should appeal to jewellery makers and crocheters alike. The Author has created projects that will appeal to many, crochet, knitted, twisted and beaded jewellery abound. If you have never tried using pre-knit wire there are a couple of very simple projects to encourage you, stretch, roll and twist it for your desired effect. The Suppliers list at the back only includes UK and US suppliers but you should be able to source most of the supplies listed locally.


Fiber and Beaded Jewelry by Helen Banes (745.594 BAN)

Inspired by African, Egyptian and Latin America these designs combine fibres and beads in the most amazing way. The first half of the book concentrates on the Author’s creative journey. The second covers projects and instructions. The projects will take a little longer to make than the ones in the book above but I’m sure you will find that they are worth the effort.