3 comments about Metallic Foil Origami Paper: 18 5-7/8" x 5-7/8" Sheets in 9 Colors (Origami).

1. Origami foil paper
   
   First of all, this is not a book, it's a collection of 18 sheets of foil backed with white paper, for use in folding origami models. The foil is reasonably good quality and does not crack when you make a sharp fold as some do. The range of colours is quite good though as always in a multi pack like this there are some you may not want to use. The sheets are cut very accurately and the papers work well for folding complex models as the foil is very thin.
   
   I regard the cost as being the one thing against this product, there is no need for all the extra packaging and the paper could easily have been sold in its cellophane wrapping only with just a tab at the top or a cardboard insert with the publisher information, and then it could have cost far less. However it's difficult to find good quality origami foil, this is similar in feel to Japan foil so seasoned folders will be pleased to have an easily available supply.



2. Great paper for folding, foil stays on the paper even after a few creases or folds, it doesnt release from the paper as some do.



3. I have a 9 yr. old son that is really into Origami, I have a hard time finding him the right kind of paper here were we live. Amazon has tons of choices on paper and he loves this foil paper the best! This is also an excellent value.

5 comments about Ruth B. McDowell's Piecing Workshop: Step-by-Step Visual Guide, Indispensable Reference for Quilters, Bonus Projects.

1. Unfortunately I missed out on a live workshop with Ruth and sent my best buddy in my place instead. She LOVED it!!! Even though I tried to practice her techniques in her other books, I never quite 'got it'. I guess I'm just more of a 'show me what you do' kind of person.
   This book changed all that and I made her sugar maple quilt quickly and easily and I'm thrilled with the outcome! Also, with her guidance on inset seams, I finished a difficult navajo quilt that had had me stumped because I couldn't get the seams set in just right. But with her latest book, it was like having this amazingly talented and wonderful lady right there with me! She is such inspiration, her quilts are outstanding and absolutely fabulous! Thanks Ruth, -can't wait for the next one!!!



2. Certainly a 5-star book. You can take your quilt piecing to a new level with Ruth's piecing techniques. The instructions and pictures are very detailed, concise & clear. Combined with her "Designing Workshop" book, you could produce gorgeous, detailed art quilts.



3. It was the perfect help to work with Freezer-Paper, the describtion and Visual Guide are very clearly.



4. This book is wonderful. It is very informative and easy to understand. Follow her instructions and anyone can create a beatiful quilt.



5. I love the author's quilts, and this book gives me a glimpse of how complex the amazing designs are to construct. This book is full of information--and a bit daunting to a beginning quilter. Still, it's a good resource and another glimpse into McDowell's unique process.

5 comments about Tudor Tailor: reconstructing sixteenth- century dress.

1. 
   I purchased this book for my wife, who enjoys sewing Renaissance English and Italian costumes. (Wife) I found this book very enjoyable to read, as far as the history of English costuming, patterns included, how to directions on sewing the pieces and trim, and detailed info. on why each piece was worm. I definitely recommend this book for anyone interested in sewing English costumes, as well as those that would like to learn more about the history of English clothing and culture.



2. If you are looking for a great book about Tudor clothing it doesn't get any better than this book. The illustrations and the patterns are really wonderful. I love this book.



3. Wonderful. Book arrived on time in excellent condition. Is a wonderful asset to my classroom and library.



4. I didn't like the way this book was laid out, but there were some good tips for the Ren Faire costume maker.



5. As Director of New Products for a company that is one of the largest manufacturers of historical swords, armor & period costumes, it was nice to recieve this book and see the excellent attention to detail in so many areas. The book has done its homework in choices of fabrics and materials to be used and back this up with period illuminations, beautiful full-color photos of the recreated garments and easy-to-use patterns for all! Both mens & womens garments are covered, as well as designs for the normal town-goer to people of higher status. A real "must have" book for any seamtress wanting to create garments from this time period!

5 comments about Crazy Aunt Purl's Drunk, Divorced, and Covered in Cat Hair: The True-Life Misadventures of a 30-Something Who Learned to Knit After He Split.

1. I picked up this book based on the title alone. I had once been drunk, divorced and covered in cat hair and trying desperately to make myself whole again. Now, many years later I find myself knitting furiously to fill the empty next. Not quite the same as being dumped by one's husband, but a similar feeling of loss and loneliness. In addition to knitting and latch hook and crocheting, I've started reading voraciously so I took myself to the bookstore to find a book to fill the void.
   
   I knew, instantly, from the title of this book, I had to read it and I was not disappointed. Any woman who has found herself clinging to an empty marriage, unwilling to accept that it's over only to be unceremoniously dumped will be able to relate to the sad but funny antics of the author. She takes you on her journey from shock and despair, to total depression to re-entry into the world as a whole person equipped with knitting needles. You'll both laugh and cry and remember your own journey to becoming whole as you read.
   
   The chapters are all very short, some only one or two pages long and cover a particular point in her journey - like the hair emergency a few days before divorce court or "cooking ADD". Her style of writing is very similar to Erma Bombeck who could also make you laugh at the irony of life. Whether you were dumped when "he" decided he was losing his creativity or you lost your spouse through death or you find yourself alone after the children have left the nest, this book is for you.



2. I thought this book was great. It's a quick read because you want to keep reading it. She is so open and honest about her life and quirks that you want to be friends with her. And she's funny. In addition to being a funny book, it is really good for someone to read if they are contemplating divorce but are on the fence about it. She gives very good coverage of the pros and cons as per her own experience.



3. I don't know how she did it but she channeled my life! So many of the same things happened. I can't write as houmrously, though. This lady is a stitch (pun intended)! Easily enjoyabe and quick read. My co-workers love to hear it on rides in the truck!



4. Strap yourself in and be prepared for a compelling true story ride that goes up and down, side to side, spirals this way and that and leaves you smiling in the end.
   The Crazy Aunt Purl thing in the title is misleading to the unitiated (me), that's just the name of Laurie Perry's blog/website (add a dot com), and obsessive knitters who've read Stephanie Pearl-McPhee's books shouldn't expect the knitting to be the star here, because it's not: it only makes an appearance around chapter 7 and is mentioned only a few times thereafter. Yes, there are knitting patterns (14), written in the same vein in the rest of the book-which makes a nice change if you're used to only normally written knitting patterns: These are in the back followed by a gallery-you have to see the picture of the cat wearing the hood of the devil baby blanket! There are scarves(5), hats(2), bags(3) and one each of a cat tunnel, pom-pom, flower, aforementioned blanket and shawl. My glitch with these is that they mostly come with a wine recommendation but not always gauge or yardage-extra homework for those who wish to substitute yarns.
   The knitting comes across more as a crutch, but this might be a good thing: one could give this book to non-knitters also going through a divorce or break-up, because that's what this book is really about, and how she, Laurie, survived the dark days of divorce and created a wonderful, sparkly new life (and with luck, the recipient of this book will be encouraged to knit too! So diabolical, it's brilliant! Get 'em when they're vulnerable-because knitting is, of course, healing and did I mention useful?)
   Although this is by a woman and probably marketed to women, there's no reason a man shouldn't look into it.
   The 44 chapters are bite-size, for that sense of accomplishment, and it feels like reading someone's really well-written diary or pages of a nice long letter, flashbacks to childhood and those real, often uncomfortable feelings we're too polite to say out loud, included.
   It's funny in places, smile-free in others and unwittingly kind of self-helping, mostly the third act.
   4 stars because I like it but don't swooningly love it (needs a pinch more knitting for my taste) but I'm happy to have it in my knitting book collection.
   Definitely worth a read if you're in the mood for comfy, cozy, light and ultimately feelgood (and/or are on a diabolical mission to convert the non-knitting...)



5. Cute, funny, and A silky smooth ride.
   In the beginning, Charlie, her beloved husband, gave a single reason (his "creativity") and said he was leaving the marriage. And then, he did.
   So a thirty-something young professional finds herself alone, dumped, and devastated in Los Angelos. She goes crazy. After a while she learns to knit. She makes knitting into a hobby. And that's it.
   Of course the story isn't really about knitting - though it claims to be. And we find that our heroine is a survivor, after all. I won't steal - by quoting - the hilarious one liners and funny story episodes. Author Laurie Perry is quite comfortable with character development and, in matter of fact, manages her subtle story progress quite handily.
   I guarantee you will like this fast, short, and very funny read.

5 comments about Kaffe Fassett's Kaleidoscope of Quilts.

1. I love color and pattern, especially almost anything from Kaffe Fassett. The patterns in the book are simple, not complex, especially if you use his wonderful fabrics. But the patterns can be used with any fabric you like. His patterns are written differently than most of the current strip piecing books we see these days, so that's a little more challenging at first. I have all of his books and love 'em all!



2. With every Kaffe Fassett book I read, I think it can't get any better, but each book is different and has more wonderful quilts and they are all over the top! This book is no exception!
   
   KALEIDOSCOPE OF QUILTS has the perfect title! As a child, I enjoyed coloring books and crayons, but my most favorite toy was my kaleidoscope! I've been pouring over the colorful photographs in this book and enjoying my day dreams of making some of these designs. The quilts were photographed in Malta. That beautiful island in the Mediterranean lends itself as a splendid backdrop to this series of quilts. I love the way the old fashioned designs such as: fans, stars, diamonds and pinwheels are used to set off the wonderful Rowan fabric line.
   
   Twenty different quilts are featured and besides Kaffe`s, there are designs by several other talented patchwork designers. My favorites: Victoria Fan, Hot Diamonds, Bottle Pinwheel, Deep Ohio Star, and Morning Garden all by Kaffe Fassett; the New Orleans Star by Liza Prior Lucy; Moonflowers by Ruth Eglinton and Matisse Villa by Roberta Horton. Instructions are given for making the quilts and they are rated for the level of sewing experience required. There is also a fun and interesting article by Mary Mashuta featuring some of her colorful quilt creations.



3. I had looked forward to receiving this book but have to say I was extremely dissapointed. I had heard so much about Kaffe and was keen to branch out into brighter less traditional quilts. My first impression was, "traditional blocks in ugly fabrics". I put the book aside for a few days and took another look and my next impressions was "paint by numbers" - hardly creative.
   
   While some of the quilts do come up as stunning when complete I havent learnt anything new. As I am unlikely to track down the fabrics used I am unlikely to ever recreate the quilts. The instructions are scant and there is nothing new to learn with regard to colour. I feel that I have actually gone out and purchased advertising material, which usually doesnt make it from the mail box to the house. Otherwise a nice coffe-table book.



4. The quilts are beautifully photographed. The designs are bold, the colors rich and expressive. Best of all there are instructions for construction and piecing diagrams. I am sure it looks easier than it is, but I am excited about creating one of these quilts.



5. Such glorious use of color in this book. The designs are easy enough make into your own quilt, and the photos give courage to venture outside the pastel patchwork and boring log cabin designs to make a quilt that is bright and elegant and delicious to live with.

5 comments about MaryJane's Outpost.

1. I had the great good fortune to get a preview copy of MaryJane's Outpost. I loved it so much I immediately ordered two more copies as birthday presents. MaryJane makes living in a tent look divine. In fact, I am trying to find a tent like the ones featured in the book so I can set up my own outpost. And know I want one of those retro campers.
   
   I loved the recipes for trail mixes....perfect for snacking anytime, on the trail or on the interstate.
   
   Just plain fun, go on and unleash your inner wild. I can't wait to try out more of the tips and ideas.



2. MaryJane graciously opens the door to her life once again in this book. She takes us to her childhood, her early adult years, being a single mom and to the present. She shows how her own experiences in the wild have shaped her character and even that of her daughter and now grand daughter as well. Her beautiful photos are inspiring, her instructions easy to follow, and her crafts graceful and practical at the same time. You might want to buy two of these books- one to stay pristine in the house (coffee table material perhaps?) and one to get grubby "in the field" with you and any littles who might be around. This is one field guide that you won't want to leave behind!



3. Oh my..this may be my favorite of MaryJane's books yet..and I love them all. Just the most fun, informative and beautiful ideas! I love that it has so many ideas for enjoying the outdoors with my kids and for making my own backyard a outdoor "fun zone". The recipes, ideas and projects are just wonderful...can't wait to try them all!!
   I am SO glad I got this book right away...LOVE IT!!!!



4. This is a true story. I was in a bookstore looking in the "Antique Price
   Guide" section when I came across THIS book! Now whether it was MISHELVED,
   MISPLACED or someone had stashed it there.. to come back later and buy..
   I WAS SOOO GLAD IT WAS THERE! I spent the next 4 1/2 hours (!!) reading
   this one-of-a kind gem! I never met anyone quite like this author. BUT
   I sure would like to! She takes you on a journey to another place and time
   ..and shows you how THEN could be NOW. She entrances with her down home
   wisdom and bit's of her life story. I really NEVER felt the 4 1/2 hours
   go by.( Perhaps it was a "out of body" experience? If so I want to go back!!)This book made me enchanted and giddy. It made me yearn to go horseback riding again. In short it made me want to rediscover myself.
   Now I would have stayed there longer reading it, but alas they had to close! READ THIS BOOK. Get back in touch with the things that matter.
   WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL BOOK!



5. I am a fan of MaryJane and a Farmgirl. I have all her books and I love them. My problem with this one is the excessive focus on children. If I had wanted a book on activities for children, I would have looked for a book on the subject. There are many things I love but that ruined it for me.

No comments about Country Weekend Knits: 25 Classic Patterns for Timeless Knitwear.

3 comments about Coiled Designs for Gourd Art.

1. I was lucky enough to have taken a coiling workshop with Catherine, and thought I didn't need the book...but then I thumbed through it at a friend's house and realized that I NEEDED this book. Coiling seems easy enough (at first), but just when you think you can be more creative with your design you realize that there is a trick to getting a professional appearance. This book is like having Catherine right there with you, mentoring you along the way. She gives clear direction and the close-up photos make a huge difference when you are wanting to put the needle (and thread) in the right place between rows. The gallery of coiled art is breath-taking and inspirational. This is a marvelous book and a must have for basket-weavers and gourd artists alike. Thank you Catherine, for making this book for us.



2. This book offered even more info than I'd bargained for and was well worth every penny I spent for it! The author methodically takes you through each step with words AND photos and in my opinion, a one-on-one lesson couldn't be any better! Everyone who sees this book wants to borrow it, so be prepared to tell them they need to order their own copy if you want to enjoy it yourself!



3. Adding a coiled rim to your gourd is a fantastic way to make your nice little gourd pop into a great little gourd. Coiling doesn't need to be fancy as shown in the book but it gives that rough cut edge to extra boost to go from a craft project to a piece of art. Ms Devine does an excellent job of giving step-by-step instructs from the most simple rim to the most elaborate. She has included an excellent gallery of other artist coiling that gives you wonderful ideas to use on your gourds that may have had flaws and now you can just cut the mistake away and add a coil and viola a perfectly "gourd-geous" gourd.
   I met Ms Devine at the North Carolina Gourd Festival '08 and she was a delightful woman with an obvious knowledge of gourd art.

5 comments about Reversible Quilts: Two at a Time.

1. Very happy with the book I received so quickly. Was happy when I looked at the book and it was new.



2. I found the details well written and easy to understand if you have knowledge of rotary cutting and machine piecing. If the quilter has no knowledge I would suggest using scrap fabric and not their best craft fabric. The tips given are worth following no matter the quilters skill level. The projects could be cut down in size especially for a beginner.



3. Book arrived...good service. It was what I was searching for. Lots of new ideas for me. PS...Amazon provides a great service. Thank you.



4. I have never made a quilt before but I used the 2-for-1 design to make 2 twin size quilts for my grandsons. I modified the front side w/ my own design & used the author's design for reverse side. It took me 8+ weeks to complete 2 beautiful quilts that totally impressed everyone. The book is well written w/ clear & easy instructions. I am already planning my 3rd quilt. The only fault I found w/ this book was the number of projects--I would've liked even more inspiration. I also bought this author's followup book -- More Reversible Quilts. I highly recommend these books.



5. Having taken a class at a local quilt shop to learn how to make a reversible quilt, this book was a very good reference giving information on all aspects of the quilt making process. The diagrams, pictures, and text assisted in learning how to sew a reversible quilt. This technique is great!

5 comments about Aranzi Cute Stuff.

1. I can't praise this book highly enough. The basic projects are simple to make, but also highly functional. The emphasis on "making things the way you like" gives this book a welcoming feel.
   
   There are few projects in this book that you can't add a felt appliqué to, making it easy to personalize your projects.
   
   In addition to the great projects and patterns in this book, the book itself is a joy to read-- if you're anything like me, the writing will have you in stitches (pun intended)!



2. My 13 yo has ripped through Aranzi's Cute Book this summer. After years of doing craft projects that were fun, but not fun enough that she wanted to repeat, she has found one she wants more and more of: making Aranzi's charming little characters. A happy bonus is she's caught up on thank you's, mailing off sophisticated little creatures (holding message signs she cuts out of felt)to every adult who ever did her a kindness, and making them for children she babysits too.
   
   Last week she asked me to order another book so she can do more, but this book offers nothing new - the characters are almost all recycled from the Cute Book. They are applied to accessories in this book, but these are uninspired and predictable. We're so disappointed, after the freshness of the Cute Book.
   
   I'm trying to keep in mind that these books are written for very beginner sewers who lack the confidence to make their own patterns, but everything Aranzi does really could be designed by anyone capable of sewing them up, and I'd encourage everyone to try. Look at the cover of this book, and just pick up a couple rectangles of fabric and go for it. I bet you will come up with successful projects that are every bit as fun and cute as these.



3. This book is ideal for a beginner! The patterns are easy to use and the directions are very simple to follow!
   
   I love this book!



4. i love this book. the projects are simple, and the instructions are very detailed. i haven't had any problems making anything in this book so far. and the results are TOO CUTE! it's a great book for a crafter of any level. :)



5. I love every Aranzi Aronzo book I have, but this one is just great for my daughter and I both. Lots of Japanese style mascots and crafts, and many of them are made with felt and can be done by hand. Tissue covers, easy running stitch embroidery (that's just impossibly cute), water bottle holders, and lots of bags. There are some simply adorable keyring patterns I can't wait to try. It's fun and inspiring. I think I'm going to have my daughter decide on a project, then draw her own character up we can make a pattern for.
   The instructions are well written and very cute, and there is a conversational feel to the project descriptions that made me laugh out loud at times. I'm glad I got it.