This fantastic new book from bestselling author Debbie Shore contains 24 projects: 12 bags and 12 matching purses. Choose from flowery patchwork totes, backpacks with faux leather detailing, clasp-top clutches, cute floral messenger bags, practical folder holders and a stylish business travel bag, all complete with a matching purse. Each purse is made in the same style and from the same fabric as its corresponding bag - mix and match the bags and purses or make yourself the pair. Each item requires no more than half a yard of outer fabric, plus all the necessary hardware, trimmings and lining. All the instructions you need are provided in Debbie's clear, friendly style, along with inspiring, easy-to-follow photography, and any templates required are included at full size. There are also QR-coded video links, providing additional support and advice from Debbie.

Learn to make 20 button designs using fabric - as an embellishment to a garment or as a piece of jewellery or accessory. Gina Barrett uses techniques such as stitching, embroidery and beading, and provides shaped templates for those projects where the reader may need more assistance. The buttons are all worked at a small size, so will require limited materials and thread for a polished finish. There are no complex button-making techniques here; all the buttons can be created by the reader at home, following Gina's straightforward instructions and stitch diagrams.

There's something therapeutic about taking a piece of fabric and turning it into something wonderful. Whether you're adorning it with a flowery motif, cross stitching the name of a newborn or creating something colorful for your wall, the punching of the needle through a fat quarter or Aida and the rustle of the thread that follows is incredibly calming. In Beginner's Guide to Embroidery, you can experience this for yourself. Regardless of if you're a needlework novice or a seasoned sewer, we've laid out all the tools and techniques you need to get started. The wide range of projects you'll find in these pages mean that you'll never be short of gifts for birthdays, holidays, Christenings or those 'just because' moments. So what are you waiting for? Grab your needle and thread, that all-important cup of tea, and turn the page to learn all about the magical world of embroidery. Great projects to get you started - Animal clocks - Bee Needlebook - Floral purse - Elephant cushion - Bird tote bag

I felt that Mary was there, pulling at my sleeve, willing me to appreciate the artistry, wanting me to understand the dazzle of the material world that shaped her. At her execution Mary, Queen of Scots wore red. Widely known as the colour of strength and passion, it was in fact worn by Mary as the Catholic symbol of martyrdom. In sixteenth-century Europe women's voices were suppressed and silenced. Even for a queen like Mary, her prime duty was to bear sons. In an age when textiles expressed power, Mary exploited them to emphasise her female agency. From her lavishly embroidered gowns as the prospective wife of the French Dauphin to the fashion dolls she used to encourage a Marian style at the Scottish court and the subversive messages she embroidered in captivity for her supporters, Mary used textiles to advance her political agenda, affirm her royal lineage and tell her own story. In this eloquent cultural biography, Clare Hunter exquisitely blends history, politics and memoir to tell the story of a queen in her own voice.

A stylish craft guide for adults, Makes for Mini Folk covers a range of makes for children from newborn babies to older children with a wide range of original projects from homeware to toys and clothing. Projects for mini minis (6 months and under) include a gorgeous mobile, practical bib and lovable toys, whilst later chapters cover instructions for a range of stylish clothes including an overall and romper. Practical and playtime projects range from a lunch bag to a hobby horse and even a pop-up shop for unforgettable play times. Super-sized projects such as giant cushions and a hopscotch picnic mat bring your handiwork into your home, whilst the teepee project extends the excitement to the garden. Lisa Stickley's signature style ensures that all of the projects are stylish, quirky and original and guarantee endless enjoyment for both children and adults.

A sweet and sunny way to learn embroidery! Stitch on the bright side with these sixteen adorable embroidery projects for absolute beginners and beyond! Written by popular fibre art designer and author Celeste Johnston, this book features uplifting projects that focus on positive messages, the beauty of nature, and simple pleasures. Inside you will find: 16 cheerful embroidery projects that build your skills as you work through them; A sunny sampler project to help you practice each stitch; Easy-to-follow stitch diagrams; Inspiring quotes and creative prompts to enhance the relaxing benefits of stitching; Expertly designed full-sized patterns for each project. From fresh florals and farmer's market favourites to adorable chickens and nature scenes, you will be smiling with every stitch. Each project includes a detailed reference photograph, step-by-step instructions, a full-sized perforated pattern, and everything you need to know about stitches, thread, and materials. The perfect book for beginners and advanced stitchers alike!