Material Wealth

I buy a lot of books. Amazon ought to give me a special rebate :) The most expensive book I remember buying (in a bookshop - no such thing as online buying at that time) was a so-called 'coffee table' book. I scrimped and saved for months before I was able to afford it. Material Wealth is a 200 page illustrated tome of innovative fabric design compiled by renowned textile designer, author, scholar and former weaver Jack Lenor Larsen. I treasure this book. Mine is so well-thumbed it isn't fit for the coffee table anymore :) This book has taught me all about contemporary textile design and the various fabric applications. Fabric design from all corners of the world are examined and explained. The colour photographs really come alive in this book. This book has helped me understand design developments of the last few decades, as well as 'training' my eye for my own creations! By the way, it's still expensive, retailing at approx. US$125,- /100,- Euro.

Sew Darn Cute

Arrived via Amazon today : yet another crafting book for my bookshelf! The title of this book says it all. Some of the projects in this book are so cute it hurts! Author and seamstress Jenny Ryan knows about cute: you'll find lots of Japanese Zakka fabrics here; the ever-popular yo-yo's in various sizes; and one of my favourites - tote bags with appliquèd cupcakes. Too cute! Projects for all sewing levels are included: from headbands to handbags, from baby bibs to doll's quilts - this adorable book has it all. The close-up shots are gorgeous, and just looking at the pretty fabrics really get my 'creative juices' flowing. Books like these keep me motivated and inpire me to think up my own creations (that's the best part). Before I sign off: I can't seem to load some of my favourite blogs on Entrecard! What's up with that? It's annoying. I've tried opening the blog on my hubby's computer - same thing. Has anyone else experienced this while 'dropping' or is it just me???

Crafty books

Phew. As you can see me lovely header is back up there. I got a little panicky when it just disappeared yesterday ☺

On to one of my favourite subjects - books.

I love the crafting books by Ute Menze. Unfortunately for all you English-speakers out there, they're in German and haven't been translated as far as I know. However the beautiful layout and the gorgeous pictures and crafting ideas speak for themselves. If you are just a little bit crafty you won't need to understand the text. These books are ideal for people who love cross stitching, embroidery, patchwork and sewing. It is full of adorable details, and all the projects can be easily adapted to suit ones taste. The books are available on Amazon.