Book Review: Tape It & Make It- 101 Duct Tape Activities by Richela Fabian Morgan; Barron’s Publishing

Always a useful item in every household toolbox, duct tape has now taken on a second life as a medium for hobbyists of all ages. This fun-filled book presents dozens of creative ideas and easy-to-follow instructions for using versatile duct tape to make everything from coin purses to neckties, from elegant artificial flowers and highly original Halloween costumes to a duct tape yoga mat!

 

Discover how to fashion more than 100 different items from duct tape, including;

• Wallets and purses
• artificial flowers
• accessories
• aprons, superhero capes, and more.

 

History of Duct Tape: From the INTRO of Tape it & Make it- 101 Duct Tape Activities

Duct tape has been around since the 1940s, when it was originally developed as an adhesive for ammunition cases in World War II. Because of it’s water resistant qualities, the military also used it for quick fixes on jeeps and firearms. It eventually found it’s way into hardware stores, where plumbers and builders gave it it’s current name.

Nowadays, duct tape is ubiquitous. Besides a hardware store, you can find a roll of the good stuff in the office supply shop, an arts’ and crafts store, a grocery store, even a pharmacy- all places that one would certainly not associate with malfunctioning ducts. So why are these places stocking up on duct tape?

The answer is that duct tape is the new black- and not just in the fashion sense. You can make just about anything with it, from accessories to home decoration.

My Review

I had seen the duct tape wallets and certain accessories on random blogs. I thought they looked pretty cool, but I wasn’t for certain that playing with duct tape was my thing. For one, it’s messy—it’s very sticky and very unforgiving.

For instance, if I miss a stitch in crochet- all I have to do is untangle the other stitches and make sure I include it this time. I wasn’t sure I wanted to spend the money on duct tape so I could get it twisted and tangled up everywhere.

BUT- this book shows exactly how to work with duct tape to prevent it from sticking everywhere, all over everything. It shows (with pictures) how to square the duct tape up so that you create a “fabric” with it—so it’s easier to maintain.

After reading through the book, I wasn’t so hesitant that I could screw this up BIG TIME, I now know how to prevent the bubbles and make the different “fabrics”

There’s the one sided, double-sided, and woven. It’s pretty simple after the first couple of times. Just make sure your working on a flat wood surface so there isn’t any room for the duct tape to slide.

The reason I was drawn into “crafting” anyway was all the different colors, and I love creating something out of nothing. When I had a chance to flip though the book, I was amazed at how MANY things could be made with just duct tape.

I thought maybe wallets and some other little things, but Richela (the author) is a duct tape GENIUS if I must say so myself. There are headbands with duct tape feathers, bracelets, fingerless gloves, aprons, hats, and vests. That’s just in the first chapter.

The second chapter is Housewares which includes coin holders, decorative wall hanging letters, picture frames, table runners, a plastic bag dispenser, vase, placemat and more.

I love that in the second chapter she devotes two entire pages to just showing us how to “paint” with duct tape. Which is like silhouettes.. you cut out the “design” such as a tree or a bird (or whatever you choose) and place it on whatever your making.

This spices things up a bit. You can create whatever you want with just this design tip. Out of the hundreds of items that can be made from duct tape JUST in this book, you can add your own flair and design to it with choosing a different color tape and adding the “paint” method which is what I thought was the most AWESOME!

Chapter 3 is nothing but pillows, pads, cushions, and mats. Making a seat cushion, pillow, or a mat out of duct tape never occurred to me. When I got into this book, thoughts started swirling my mind about all the different things I could make with the tape (that wasn’t in the book).  All of a sudden, everything in life becomes a canvas for duct taping!

Chapter 4 shows how to further your knowledge of making stuff out of duct tape by making “STICKERS”. These are stickers that you can put on your different “projects” to also help make them stand out to be YOURS.

They show you how to make a butterfly, crow, apple. sports car, peace sign, surfing wave, pirate, earth, a bridge, and more..

Chapter 5 is where it gets very interesting with the bags, holders, and wallets. I don’t know why but I am a collector of all things bags, totes, wallets, and laptop cases. I have 1 laptop and 10 cases—don’t ask me why.. lol.

They have some awesome clutches, totes, and even full sized beach bags in this book. Lunch totes, id holders, and cell phone case. You can of course, change up the colors so that you have every type of bag in every color,, YAY

This is a cheap, easy, and convienient way to make everybody Christmas presents on your lists. It doesn’t take long, the instructions are very simple, and the duct tape will NEVER wear down. If something spills inside their “beach bag” all they have to do is wipe it out with a washcloth.

It will never stain, tear, or break. The only way to dissemble the duct tape is to of course- CUT IT! This would be a perfect present for even young kids (as long as you cut the tape for them). They can then make birthday presents, Christmas presents, and even mother and fathers’ day presents by hand.

Chapter 6 devotes itself to making different flowers. Wouldn’t mom just love flowers that never died in her vase for the front room table? Of course she would. There are some beauties in here; Calla Lily, Red Rose, Sunflower, Cherry Blossom Branch (my favorites), Hot pink Hibiscus, and more!  By this point, you could make MOM and GRANDMA an entire garden for their house! LOL

Chapter 7 is toys; so it’s about checker/chess boards, dolls, and masks. Oh what fun the kids could have making their OWN toys! AND it wouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg!

Chapter 8 is more fun and play for the kids with Costumes, Disguises, and Props. What kid doesn’t like a little imaginative play every now and then? With this you can create beards, superhero capes, pirate hats. knight sword and shield, and more.

Chapter 9 is seasonal; ornaments, wreaths, bows, banners, and baskets. Nothing says “KIDS live here” like handmade ornaments and baskets. This would be something fun to do together and keep as keepsakes..

This whole book is nothing but fun! Go to walmart, get the duct tape, buy this book, and have some family time making stuff. Not only will they remember the time you spent with them, when you bring out the stuff they made when they’re older—they will have a blast remembering making it!

About the Author

 

When she's not picking through her neighbor's trash for crafty treasures, Richela Fabian Morgan teaches eco crafting at the Sheldrake Environmental Center.
Ms. Morgan lives with her husband and two children in Larchmont, New York. You can learn more about her crafts, her cooking, and her domestic follies on her website: http://www.richelafabianmorgan.com

 

Buy It: $8.64 & Free Shipping with orders over $25

Tape It & Make It: 101 Duct Tape Activities

 

 

Jessica Renee

Book Review: Stitch New York- 20 Kooky Ways to Knit the City by Lauren O’Farrell; D&C Publishing

You'll Love This If:

• You enjoyed Stitch London
• You want Big Apple knitting patterns

In this Stitch New York book, Lauren O'Farrell will show you how and have you knitting in a New York minute. Want a breakfast with Handmade Holly Golightly? Knit neurotic Woolly Woody Allen? Or hail a Small Yellow Taxi that really rolls? From proud and purly Little Lady Liberty, to the Squishy Empire State, to the star-struck Broadway Beanie, Stitch New York is a melting pot of Big Apple knitting patternsThe properties of color & basic color theory

 

My Review:

There are many things that New York is known for: Tons of taxi’s, the Statue of Liberty, Woody Allen, and more. Lauren O'Farrell has conquered capturing these amazing little things that make New York so captivating in her new book Stitch New York: 20 Kooky Ways to Knit the City and More..

She has a previous book Stitch London, that done the same thing—taking these details of what makes these cities what they are, and making them available in tiny little knitting patterns!

The patterns are rated from easiest to more difficult -- 7 for tourists, 6 for Gothamites and 5 for yellow taxicab drivers. So whether you have known how to knit for as long as you can remember or you started not long ago, there are patterns for everyone!

The patterns are split into different sections- whether they are inspired by a person, place, or thing.

*The people section has Woody Allen, A Firefighter, and Holly Golightly.

*In the Mini Metropolis section you’ll see taxi’s, the Empire State Building, and Lady Liberty.

*In the I Heart New York section you’ll find Leg Warmers, a beanie,and a Pooch Poncho.

*The Home Turf section contains a Big Bad Burger, Huge Hot Dog Cushion, and a Cocktail Teenie.

*City Critters has King Kong, Scram the Alley Cat, Snap the Sewer Alligator and Scuttle the Cockroach.

PLUS MORE! ♥

I love that they have full color photographs to go with the instructions! This means that you can actually see what your project is supposed to look like before AND after it’s made.

About the author:

Lauren O'Farrell is a writer, traveller and giant squid wrestler, who founded Stitch London, the UK's woolly Godzilla of a knitting community and runs it as Head Woolly Godzilla Wrangler (official title). She is also rumoured to be sneaky stitching graffiti knitter Deadly Knitshade, of Knit the City fame. though she will neither confirm or deny this if you ask. She lives in London, UK, with five cats and Plarchie, an 8-metre knitted squid. She works from the Fleece Station studio in Deptford.

Buy IT: You can buy the Stitch New York: 20 Kooky Ways to Knit the City and More.. for $15.00

 

 

Jessica Renee

Book Review: 101 Ways to Stitch Craft Create; D&C Publishing

 

As a crafter by heart, I was absolutely thrilled to receive 101 Ways to Stitch, Craft, Create. There are a mixture of just about every single craft inside. It was refreshing and invigorating to receive a book that had such a mixture of crafts inside.

The book is broken down so that every project that relates to each other are together. Such as all the cake decorating are together, all the knitting projects are grouped together, and so on. If you get a rush of inspiration to try your hand at a certain “craft” all you have to do is flip to those certain pages.

Each project is very easy to follow, understand, and make. Although it gives certain fabrics that are best with the applique section of the book- you can always use a different fabric if you don’t have the one listed on hand.

The projects in this book aren’t very time consuming, which is great for someone who hasn’t really mastered in each certain craft but would like to give it a try. The projects are very cute and eye catching. I love to flip through the book and guess on as to which ones I would like to make.

1:10 AM

This year has been my “CRAFTY” resolution year. I wanted to spend more time creating beautiful things and making time to try other crafts that I haven’t really mastered.

My favorite parts of the book are the crochet and sewing projects. I have really made my hand at crocheting this year. I could crochet before.. but only really making a fabric out of single crochet stitches. I hadn’t mastered reading crochet patterns or attempting to learn the more difficult stitches. With the help of another book from F&W International Publishing I have.

I started teaching myself how to sew after having kids and wanting a way to make money from home that didn’t require a ton of start-up money. Every single project in the sewing section is absolutely beautiful. I want to try almost every single project that they’ve posted.

The Papercraft part of the book also has some really inspiring projects that are beautiful and can be used for beginners as well as papercraft “crafters”. There are some tools that you need for each set of “projects” in this book- so if you don’t have “patterned paper” per say.. you might just have to go out and get you some. Other projects call for decorative punches (which I don’t have) but would like to).

I am also beginning to teach myself how to quilt. I know how to sew, just haven’t really began teaching myself the complex “quilting” designs yet. This book has some really easy to figure out projects that I would like to try but haven’t had the time here lately to get that done. When I’m finished, I promise to post some pictures of my completed work.

So whether you want to try knitting, jewelry making, embroidery, paper craft, sewing, quilting, cake decorating or crochet this book is for you—or if you know a crafty person they would love this book.

BUY IT: You can buy the 101 Ways to Stitch Craft Create book for $19.33

 

Jessica Renee

Book Review: Sew Serendipity Sewing Workbook; D&C Publishing

 

Sew Serendipity Sewing Workbook makes a handy companion for trips to the fabric store, and is a convenient source of easy-to-follow sewing advice.

This workbook offers resources and ideas you'll love:

*8 quick, seasonal projects that you try out techniques and create fun accessories.

*Notions and fabric charts, project planning calendars, worksheets, checklists and more.

*Sewing tips and tricks from Kay Whitt, author of Sew Serendipity and Sew Serendipity Bags

*Note-taking space to keep track of projects, techniques, and inspiration

 

MY REVIEW

This book is set up as a question/answer book as well as a journal. Not only does it answer questions that most seamstresses (sewing hobbyists) want to know about (ex. Sewing in a zipper) but it gives you room to get a feel for what you would like to sew, purchase for your sewing projects, and goals you would like to set for yourself.

I have been sewing (really sewing) for about 3 years now. When I first began my journey down the oh-so-frightening (so I thought) sewing path, I had a ton of questions. The problem with my questions was I didn't have anybody to answer them. SO because it's the 21st century, I googled them. YES- I got about 1,000 different answers and techniques to the questions I asked, which only confused me even more.

I so wish I had had this book. When you are starting out, not only do you have questions but you definitely need to get a feel for what YOU like to sew. It's not going to be any fun if you are scared of certain techniques or have to skip over a certain project you want to tackle so badly because you don't know how to do something.

This book starts out with the Spring. They ask what goals you'd like to set for yourself for the Spring, what you would like to purchase for your projects, and Gifts you would like to sew for the season. This is in the notebook type, so it gives you room to write in what you actually want. I don't write in my books, so I photocopied each page like this and stuck them together. I put them in a book labeled what year (Spring 2013?) so that I could add more as time went on!

The sewing advice in this book is what tackles the everlasting questions of the beginner. The first advice is on the always dreaded zipper. I've broken MANY sewing needles trying to figure this out by myself back in 2009. Really the only thing freaking me out was myself, once I got the hang of sewing in zippers it was a breeze! This book has amazing illustrations to go with the step-by-step instructions so that you can see what you're doing while doing it.. Makes it 10x easier!

Fusibles? No sew or sew? Have you had questions pertaining as to what is right to use when? This book tells all about everything you need to know about Machine applique and the fusibles that go along with it. You don't want to use NO-sew fusible web when appliqueing! You'll mess up your machine because the stickiness of the fusible web will go through your machine via your machine!

Then it's time to tackle a project. The first project is a wristlet with cute bird applique. This is so you can practice with the zipper and applique (that was in the question section).. Again there are amazing illustrations to go with the step-by-step instructions to guide you in the right direction as you go along with your project.

Then after finishing the project there is a space for "reflection." This is about what you liked best about the project, what you would do differently next time, and what new skill you learned and what other projects you could use it on! This is a "notebook" section of course. I really like that they included this! This gives time to reflect on what types of techniques you learned and what you would like to create with them in the future! Brilliant! Keeps it fun!

I love that the book tackles stabilizers. When I was a beginner that was something else that had me puzzled. I didn't understand the difference of one stabilizer from another and ended up more confused then helped when I searched what I was looking for. This book breaks down the names of the stabilizer, the width, whether it's fusible or not, and the uses for that particular stabilizer (ex. Pellon 911FF is a versatile stabilizer and is perfect for linings of a bag, interlining of handles, facings on skirts and dresses.) Makes it a ton easier to decipher what you need and how much you should buy (if it's versatile you should buy more because more projects can be used with it).

The book tackles quilting your own fabric (mostly for bags and wallets), polar fleece, and laminated fabric. This makes it easier to know what you're getting into before you start to tackle a project. I love the way the book is written-- it's like you've got a best friend (who knows all there is to know about sewing) sitting there guiding you on your way!!

BUY IT:

Sew Serendipity Sewing Workbook: Tips, Tricks and Projects for Those Who Love Sewing

$15.60 & FREE Shipping on orders over $25.

Jessica Renee

Book Review: Singer Simple Sewing by Beth Baumgartel; Creative Publishing

This comprehensive at-your-fingertips reference is an essential addition to every sewer’s library. With more than 1,000 detailed illustrations, SINGER Simple Sewing covers all the need-to-know basics for garment construction and home décor. There’s also an entire section on mending and repair to help you recycle your favorite items with quick and reliable fixes.

No matter what type of sewing project you’re working on, SINGER Simple Sewing will help you sharpen your skills and find smart solutions to make each of your projects the very best.

I began learning to sew in high school home economics class. I learned how to make pillows, blankets, and even a pair of pajamas. I didn’t own my own sewing machine back then though, so when I finally did get mine I was a little rusty.

Being able to review the Singer Simple Sewing Reference book has been amazing. Even though I’ve been sewing (with my own machine) for close to 4 years now, there were still parts of sewing that had me stuck in a rut.

Mostly I just made whatever came into mind when I pulled out the fabric. I was very limited in selection though. I could only make small items such as purses, laptop bags, and random items.

I couldn’t put a piece of clothing together or do anything hard because following patterns was difficult for me. There were other things such as the different machine feet ((I wasn’t sure what was necessary to buy and what I could wait to purchase later).

I love that this book comes with it’s own DVD. You can insert it into your computer or DVD player and see the video’s that accompany the chapters in this book. It shows how to start with your machine, getting ready to start sewing, how to change presser feet, and more. It makes it a lot easier to understand (especially if you’re a beginner.)

Looking through the book was amazing.. they cover anything and everything that has to do with sewing. This is the perfect book for a beginner, but even if you aren’t *like me* there is something to be learned.

The beginning of the book consists of everything there is to know about different parts of the sewing machine and the tools that are needed to begin sewing. The tools contain everything from machine & hand needles, interfacing fusibles, pressing, cutting, & marking tools, to lining.

The detailed illustrations that come with each page make it that much easier to see what you need to do or what is what in sewing tools. The best thing about it that it doesn’t just describe what these things are, it actually tells you how to use the items.

There when I began sewing the differences between fusibles, interfacing, and stabilizers had me confused. This book is amazing because it breaks down what each one is, what they are used best with (i.e. heavyweight interfacing is best for toys, crafts, and accessories), and how to apply them.

The part that helped me best was the “Working with Patterns” part. Taking a pattern and making it your own is quite difficult to begin if you don’t understand HOW to work with the pattern. This part of the book breaks down why there are  different sizes on the pattern and how to make sure that you cut and sew them so that they fit YOU. They even show you how to measure yourself so that you know WHICH of the several patterns is more to your body type.

It breaks down each and every notch, dotted line, solid lines, and everything in between. This made me feel more confident just looking at a pattern. It helps to feel like you can accomplish and tackle something before you ever even try. If you’re frazzled before you begin, it won’t take long for something to go wrong.

No matter what you’re trying to accomplish or learn, you can do it with this book. Making ribbons & tassels & bias binding, forming gathers & adding darts, inserting elastic into a casing, pleats, ruffles, and hems.

If you look at a piece and think you might skip it overall because it tells you that you have to do something that you’re scared of, be scared no more my friend! I used to think that shortening a zipper would break my machine needles, so I didn’t even give it a try. This book firmly and efficiently shows how to shorten  a zipper so that it functions after you’ve shortened it to size!  And it even shows how to insert it if you are stuck on that part too. Amazing!

There is a whole chapter dedicated to showing how to sew up home décor items. This shows how to choose the right fabric and go about sewing shower curtains, bedding, napkins, regular curtains, tablecloths, placemats, and so much more! You’ll be sewing you’re heart away in no time!

The last part of the book is completely about mending and repair. This shows you how to examine a piece and thoroughly decide whether it’s able to be mended or thrown out. Whether it be stressed seams, holes in clothing, patching pockets, adding decorative trim, adding buttons/snaps/zippers that have popped off, repairing lining, or adding extra fabric to clothing that’s gotten too tight- this book nails it right on the head.

Whether you’re a beginner, want to become handy around the house, start your own seamstress business, or know someone who does—this is the perfect book for them or you!! If you buy it for someone else, they will thank you until the end of their days! It is a very helpful book! I love it!

BUY IT: You can buy Singer Simple Sewing: The Complete Illustrated Machine-side Reference of Tips and Techniques for $18.97

 

Jessica Renee

Book Review: 200 crochet Flowers, Embellishments & Trims by claire crompton; F&W Media international

Every since I was a little girl, crochet has been a part of my life. I was given some really cool crocheted pieces that my great-grandmother had made. She made anything and everything; blankets, animals, and doilies. I loved how amazing the pieces looked and always wondered how to do it myself.

As I got older, I noticed that my Aunt had picked up Crochet hooks and was well experienced at making cute baby blankets, booties, hats, and scarves. I wanted to learn too. So, 3 years ago- I began teaching myself.

I am not experienced by any means. I have other things that take up my time and I wasn’t able to complete BIG projects that I started—so only small projects were completed on my crochet to-do list. I never really learned how to read crochet patterns because I was afraid and just a beginner.

When I got a chance to review the book 200 Crochet Flowers, Embellishments, and Trims by Claire Crompton I was ecstatic. This meant that I could do some little projects and begin reading crochet patterns..

So last weekend I spent the entire weekend reading this book- brushing up on the different stitches and teaching myself how to read the patterns without getting frazzled. I have to admit—I had SO much fun.

I began making some of the different flowers that they had in the book. The patterns were easy to read, easy to follow, and very easy to get done. It is amazing how great it feels to take a ball of yarn and complete something so beautiful (yet not SO time consuming) at the beginning.

As I got comfortable making the flowers and reading the patterns—I flipped to the back of the book where the different crochet fabrics were. They had so many different patterns that I’d never seen or heard of before.. They were also easy to follow and fun to make.

I started making washcloths for face washing, scarves with all the beautiful elegant stitches that they have, and even belts. I don’t think there has been a day since getting this book that I haven’t been sitting down and putting it to good use.

Not only has this book inspired me to re-start something that I loved doing, just couldn’t find the time to do—but it helped me learn how to read the patterns (both written and drawn) which was extremely hard for me before.

This is another scarf that I made from the instructions in the book. This is a beautiful shell stitch—so I made it into an airy open lace like scarf. It is absolutely stunning and I plan on giving it to my sister for her birthday.! It feels nice to create something out of just a ball of yarn. Something that I can be proud to say that I made!!

This book is absolutely amazing. I love that they have all the instructions in the front so that even a beginner can enjoy the book. (It isn’t just for advanced know-how crocheters). It also has detailed descriptions of the different types of yarn and what each type of yarn would be best for.

It also has very elegant edging and braids that can be added to blankets, shirts, or just about anything to make it more beautiful. I haven’t made any of these yet- but when I do—I’ll be sure to post them for you to see.

BUY IT: You can buy the 200 Crochet Flowers, Embellishments, & Trims book for $14.71

 

Jessica Renee

 

Book Review: Make Me I’m Yours…Jewellery; F&W International

Summary

Create your own stunning jewellery items from a selection of over 20 diverse necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. Learn various beading and wirework techniques and use your own selection of beads or embellishments for a unique look. Includes projects to suit all styles and abilities, with handy difficulty levels attached to each design.
There are so many fun and inspiring jewelry projects in this book. My mom started making jewelry about 2 years ago, and she let me design a few pieces with her. It was SO much fun. Not only because I was learning a new brand of craft technique but because you get to wear (OR GIVE) these beautiful pieces when you’re done.

The table of contents show you that it starts with Vintage pieces then moves on to Vibrant pieces, and ends with Inspiring pieces.
At the back of the book there are techniques. This shows you everything you need to know about beads, findings, string, wires, glues, and more! It’s an amazing book!

Starting out as a beginner jewelry making it was extremely helpful to me to have the techniques in the back. It starts out with bead shapes and the different types of beads. Showing the different types of beads and what projects the beads best make.
Then it begins with the different types of findings. Findings are all the little pieces that are generally made of metal. They are used to make and finish jewelry. If you’re a beginner like I am, findings can be extremely confusing at first. This book breaks it down and shows what is needed for what type of jewelry- and what it best.
The String, Wire, and Chain part of this book is also a great help. There are so many different types of strings, chains, and wires that can be made into jewelry. Breaking it down and showing what is what makes it easier to decide what would look best for designing before I begin. It helps me make a decision before actually starting.
Then the tools and glues that are needed before you start your jewelry adventure. I ended up finding all the tools in a jewelry making kit at walmart for $15. They are very high quality too, I love that I found them all together.

On making the Jewelry:
I love that it not only explains it in detailed wording, but it also shows every step of the way in pictures. I can’t craft without pictures, because I can’t visualize what to do next without them.

The best part about the pictures and step by step instructions is that it is getting you ready to go off on your own (in the jewelry making world). You can take the different pieces and create something totally different than what is shown, just using the same techniques.
For instance- take the necklace in the picture above. Instead of using the neutral colored and metal beads- you could switch this up and use beautifully colored glass beads… it’s all in how you look at it.
This book has really inspired me to make some pretty awesome pieces. If you would like to learn how to make jewelry, know how but want some more inspiration, or know someone who would like to learn—this book is absolutely perfect!
BUY IT: You can buy   Make me I'm yours...Jewelry: Over 20 gorgeous necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings for $14.99 on Amazon
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Jessica Renee