Fiber Crafts

The star of this book is finishing, and all the basics are well covered, including step-by-step, illustrated examples of seaming and blocking crochet pieces, applying buttons and other fasteners, and embellishment. The stitch guide is helpful, and the projects are designed to take advantage of the techniques covered throughout.

Crafting for charity is a popular pastime, and Bell—a writer, editor, and quilter—explores the world of charity quilting in this collection of projects and stories. Hand-made quilts provide comfort to people in need, and these projects are accessible and appealing. The stories from each charity tug at the heartstrings and will remind quilters of the care they can give to others. Full contact information is provided for each charity so readers can get involved.

This encyclopedic guide to quilt blocks collects over 4000 designs, both contemporary and historic, with color samples and drawings for each block. Translating the information from the book to a workable design requires knowledge of quilting technique, but intermediate and advanced quilters will appreciate the quantity of options available, as well as the intelligent organization. This book is as useful as a reference guide to the history and development of patchwork as it is for quilters looking for a distinctive design.

Reusing and repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded isn't a new idea, but the current vogue for all things green has brought recycling to increased prominence among crafters. None of the projects in this book is particularly groundbreaking, but this is a handy one-volume overview of an ever-popular topic.

Bordhi and Gardiner, both sock-knitting innovators, here provide formulas for custom-fitting handknit socks to any foot. Bordhi's approach involves the creation of a "personal footprint," a basic template that can be adapted to any pattern, and Gardiner's involves the use of worksheets (and a little basic math). Both books are self-published but beautifully designed and edited; both provide friendly guidance for sock knitters interested in creating their own custom designs.

Clayton's (Ultimate Sewing Bible) comprehensive guide is a top-notch ready-reference to all aspects of quilt making from beginning to end. Coverage of the quilting basics is ample, but the highlight is the techniques section, which contains useful information and templates for designing and making a wide variety of quilts.

Expert dyer Dean spares no detail in her handbook for dyeing yarn with natural (predominantly plant-based) dyes. Full instructions (and precautions) are provided, as well as anecdotes from Dean's personal dyeing experience. Some experience with dyeing is assumed. It would be helpful to see samples of yarn dyed with the various dyes rather than flat color swatches, but the directions and guidance almost make up for the lack of examples.

Gentry proves that crocheted garments can be polished and professional in this collection of women's patterns. The focus is on tops, including vests, coats, and cardigans, and the size range is generous. Several projects are also appropriate for beginners.

Hart, known for her Sublime Stitching designs, now gives embroidery novices a friendly introduction to the centuries-old art. The designs and projects are likely to appeal to crafters who enjoy vintage kitsch, but the technique and stitch diagrams are useful to all. Hart's following continues to grow, and this is fun stuff.

King gives spinners insight into her techniques for spinning a variety of yarn types, featuring plenty of beginner basics but enough advanced technique to please spinners of various skill levels. The photography, which features King's hand-dyed creations, is striking. Spin-Off magazine editor Moore offers knitted projects both small and large to take advantage of the unique qualities of handspun yarn. There are even a couple of projects that can be used with lumpy, uneven beginning spinners' yarn.

Yarn bombing—the act of positioning knitted objects in public spaces—is becoming increasingly popular around the world. Canadian knitters Moore and Prain provide an introduction and history of this creative phenomenon as well as simple projects and suggestions for would-be "taggers." Don't be surprised if this book inspires your patrons to knit or crochet cozies for the trees on your library's property.

If you've ever wondered about the details of the wool that you knit with, this guide will answer your questions—and much more. Parkes (The Knitter's Book of Yarn) turns her analytical gaze to wool in her latest book, giving information about sheep breeds and their characteristics and types of wool yarn, plus projects intended to take advantage of wool's best qualities.

There are books that are carefully orchestrated to hop on the "green crafts" bandwagon, and there are books like this one: a thoughtful, intelligent work that discusses how everyday crafters can make environmentally responsible choices while creating works of art. The projects, which include items made from sustainable or recycled fibers, are fun and varied.

Former Project Runway contestant Webber and her design partner, Marshall, specialize in reconstructed transformations of everyday garments, and their fashion label, Sistahs of Harlem, keeps getting more popular. The aesthetic is edgy, hip, and fashion-forward, and readers will be surprised at the imaginative garments that can be made out of humble sweatshirts. Especially outstanding is the introductory material on dressing for your shape. Though teens and young adults are most likely to wear the clothes, crafters and fashionistas of all ages can learn from the Sistahs' knowledge of figure-flattering fashion.