When the Quilts of Valor Foundation was founded in 2003, its mission was to cover our nation's military touched by war-that is, to cover them with quilts and honor their service. A volunteer team donate their time and materials to make a quilt collaboratively. Since its beginning, this all-volunteer organization with close to 8,000 members nationwide has awarded more than 200,000 Quilts of Valor. This book explains the history of military quilts since our nation's beginning, and features a Quilt of Valor to represent each of our 50 states. Also included are 16 quilt patterns to choose from, to inspire you to make your own Quilt of Valor. The organization's Under Our Wings project, which brings young people into Quilts of Valor and encourages them to learn to sew, is featured, too.

Designer Ana Morais Soares has a great passion for colours and blankets. In this book she presents 15 colourful blanket projects, using different crochet techniques and styles. These patterns--a mix of simple and elaborate designs--will add colour and creativity to your home. Blankets are crocheted using yarns in linen, wool, cotton, acrylic, and a mix of these compositions--in beautiful bright or soft colours.

Hungry for new knitting techniques? Try knitting brioche

"Knitting Brioche" is the first and only knitting book devoted exclusively to brioche stitch, a knitting technique that creates a double-sided fabric. This complete guide will take you from your first brioche stitches to your first (or hundredth) project, and even to designing with brioche stitch, if you desire. Whether you're new to brioche knitting or experienced at "brioching," author Nancy Marchant provides the information and inspiration you need.

Inside "Knitting Brioche," you'll find:

• Detailed instructions and step-by-step photos that will guide you through all of the techniques you'll need for brioche knitting.
• A stitch dictionary including 60 beautiful stitch patterns with many multicolor options.
• 25 patterns for garments and accessories, all made with brioche stitches, some combined with other design elements including cables, lace, intarsia and more

This is the perfect book for beginner sewers, with friendly and easy-to-follow directions. Sew Me! Sewing Basics is geared towards would-be sewers of all ages, who may never have touched a sewing machine or even threaded a needle before. It's the perfect book for anyone who wants to get started in the craft, or just needs a quick refresher course in sewing. Choly Knight's friendly and easy-to-follow directions will get readers sewing with confidence, making repairs and creating new garments from scratch. She starts at the very beginning, showing how to choose a sewing machine and introducing the most basic techniques and shortcuts. From cutting patterns and sewing seams, to binding edges, gathering fabric and installing zippers, each new skill is accompanied by a quick practice exercise to try, allowing readers to learn as they sew. 36 simple and straightforward projects are provided for sewing fun accessories from plushies, pincushions and placemats to hand towels and hats.

Wrap up in style with these 35 cute crocheted projects. It takes no time at all to crochet a scarf or a hat, and Nicki Trench has created a wide range of contemporary designs, with a variety of stitches and fashionable colours, so you'll really stand out from the crowd. Start with the soft and cosy seashell stitch scarf or the bright beanie hat which can be made in a range of eye-catching shades. Not every scarf or hat has to just be for winter! The delicate daisy scarf and the pretty rose headband can be worn all year round. There are also handy stash-busters such as the granny square patchwork scarf and the pompom hat for babies. All the stitches are explained and there are infinite possibilities to match your accessories to your outfit with Crocheted Hats and Scarves.

Complete Book of Sewing Techniques, Updated Edition provides an ideal introduction for beginning sewers, and is also a useful reference for those who already have sewing skills. Featuring step-by-step instructions and photographs, plus friendly advice from internationally accredited sewing expert, Wendy Gardiner, you'll learn a wide variety of skills, from hand stitching and hemming to adding darts for shaping, inserting buttonholes, and so much more. Along with clear instructions on everything from making seams, sleeves, and collars to attaching linings and zippers, Wendy also includes comprehensive information on fabrics, threads, needles, and other equipment. Her clear directions ensure that even beginners will get great results. With the techniques you learn in this must-have resource, you'll soon be stitching amazing clothes with skill and confidence. New edition features updated photography and various technical and general updates

One simple stitch can bring new life to hundreds of your favorite things! Boro is the Japanese straight stitch used to repair and reinforce fabrics that is the basis for Sashiko. It is a favorite among visible mending enthusiasts because of its simplicity and because it adds an intriguing textural element to favorite garments and home furnishings. In this new book, Sashiko expert Harumi Horiuchi shares her ideas for using Boro to patch holes and tears, reinforce worn areas, and add fresh details to garments. Her approach is simple--the things you love are worth fixing. Rediscover your favorite items by giving them a new look and feel--while also being good to the environment. Her demonstrations and instructions make the process easy and enjoyable. Here are just a few of the things you'll learn in this book: Discover the pleasure of working with old fabrics and making classic neutrals come alive Be inspired to give old scraps of cloth new purpose, whether patching a well-loved skirt or a pair of jeans Learn to revive a faithful cloth bag, or even something knitted like a favorite pair of worn woolen socks And so much more! There's no need to stop at reinforcement and repair. Remake an entire garment by artfully patching it here, there and everywhere. The more you patch, the more unique your garment becomes. This book will be just the start of giving new life to hundreds of old things!

These beautifully designed crocheted hats are just the thing for getting you noticed on a cold winter's day. There are 15 easy projects, from beanies to berets, all clearly presented and beautifully photographed. Even those with no previous crocheting experience will be whipping up stylish hats in next to no time. Basic crochet techniques are clearly explained, including how to add a lining for extra cosiness. Sizes are included for children and adults so all the family can have their own handmade hat.

From the editors of the popular Making Mathematics with Needlework, this book presents projects that highlight the relationship between types of needlework and mathematics. Chapters start with accessible overviews presenting the interplay between mathematical concepts and craft expressions. Following sections explain the mathematics in more detail, and provide suggestions for classroom activities. Each chapter ends with specific crafting instructions. Types of needlework included are knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch, quilting, temari balls, beading, tatting, and string art. Instructions are written as ordinary patterns, so the formatting and language will be familiar to crafters.

This exciting new Japanese stitch dictionary is from popular designer Yoko Hatta--the founder and driving force behind the Kazekobo Studio. Though this is her first book in English, her work already has an extensive following in Western countries--more than 1,000 of her designs can be seen on Ravelry.com. Hatta is one of several Japanese knitters whose patterns and designs have sparked an explosion of interest in Japanese knitting techniques and aesthetics around the world. Her work in knitwear design spans more than thirty years, and knitters love her modern-yet-timeless, fun-yet-classy styles. This book presents her 200 favorite Kazekobo stitch patterns--a delightful selection of multipurpose knit-and-purl, lace, cable, Aran and rib & twist stitches in solids and motifs. Sample projects give knitters a chance to practice Hatta's techniques. These include: Mini mufflers using knit-and-purl stitches A cozy scallop-edged scarf using lace stitches A beautifully textured pair of mittens using cable and Aran stitches A stylish and sturdy pair of two-tone socks using rib and twist stitches Experienced knitters will find a wealth of unique patterns just waiting to be brought to life. A guide to the basic symbols shows how to knit the stitches, step-by-step. Originally published in Japanese by Nihon Vogue, whose books have brought the designs of artists such as Hitomi Shida, Keiko Okamoto and others to knitters around the world, this book will be a much-anticipated addition to every knitter's library.

They're hot, they're shiny, and they're oh-so-glamorous. The mettle of movie star wardrobes, the spark that lights brides' eyes, and the flash that marks music videos-metallic fabrics have defined glamour for half a century. This book revisits metallics past, with historic fabric swatches from Europe and Japan dating back to the 1950s, and takes us to today's top European couture houses in a visual exploration of metallics' allure. In all, 237 pictures will provide inspiration for designers and insight for fashion historians.

A complete guide to the stitches, techniques and finishing touches that every knitter needs to know. Whether you are just learning to knit, or you are seldom separated from your needles and yarn, there will always be times when you need instruction - or just a reminder - on a particular technique or stitch, and even the most experienced knitter may not know all the tips and wrinkles included here. Knitting Know-How has step-by-step instructions accompanied by clear colour artworks, showing you how to do everything from basic knit and purl stitches, to increasing and decreasing, lace patterns, intarsia, and Fair Isle. If you want to know how to get started, everything from casting on and working out your tension to blocking your finished make is covered. For more experienced knitters, useful tips on making buttonholes, picking up stitches and stranding yarns in colour work will all help you achieve a perfect finish to your makes.

If you love houseplants but have an unerring ability to kill everything off, fear not, because these cute creations don't require green fingers! There are 25 splendid succulents to make in a variety of shapes and sizes for a touch of indoor greenery that will never need watering, repotting or special plant food. . Each project is beautifully photographed and includes clear patterns and guidance. . Includes a techniques section that gives clear instructions on all the skills you'll need to make the projects. . Easy to follow crochet patterns to create succulents for stylish home interiors. AUTHOR: Inspired by the imagination of children, Emma Varnam likes to make items that bring a smile. She has written a number of popular crochet books-including Granny Squares Home, Crocheted Keyrings & Charms, Cute Crocheted Animals and How to Crochet, all published by GMC Publications. Emma lives in Greater Manchester, UK. SELLING POINTS: . Beautiful photography throughout . With easy-to-follow crochet patterns and a detailed techniques section . 25 succulents to make for stylish home interiors

Now you can create even more of the world's most beautiful embroidered blankets! This colourful and vibrant collection brings you eight all-new and original projects, featuring adorable blankets with teddies and baby elephants, a magnificent beaded blackberry wreath and a resplendent bouquet of pastel blossoms. And as a special treat, the all-time-favourite `Fruits of the Hedgerow', originally published in Inspirations issue 8, reappears as a bonus pattern in this stunning new edition to Inspirations Books that is not to be missed!

This book features 25 inspirational sewing projects shown step by step. The beauty of applique celebrated in original and practical projects. Stylish items include a Shaker-style throw, a child's apron, a tablecloth and matching napkins, pillows of all varieties; plus decorative hangings, curtains and blankets. All the applique techniques are included, from using fabric markers, tacking over paper, cut-work and shadow-work to broderie perse and reverse applique. Suggests fabrics, trimmings, various stitches and embellishments so that you can make your project totally unique. With a gallery of exciting, contemporary applique designs by leading textile artists. Over 300 photographs showing step by step what you are aiming for. The technique of applique has been a popular hobby for centuries. Born from reasons of practicality and a desire for embellishment, applique allowed the craftsperson to decorate fabrics while making the most of precious textiles and other materials. Today, applique continues to fascinate designers who combine the traditions of the past with new designs and materials. This book is a guide to this versatile needlecraft, including 25 original projects specially designed by some of today's leading craftspeople. A comprehensive techniques section covers the equipment and materials you will need and helps you to master the basics. A gallery of work by contemporary textile artists reveals the almost endless possibilities of the craft and will inspire more experienced needleworkers to produce their own projects. With over 300 photographs and exquisite designs, this book is an easy-to-follow technical source and a stimulating guide to creating beautiful contemporary applique pieces.

You've knitted your Pussyhat, now what do you do? This quirky new craft book will provide you with all the creative inspiration you need to carry on making a powerful feminist statement in a subversively homespun way. Missy Covington shows how simple and satisfying it is to use easy-sew, craft-store felt as the medium for your message. You'll discover how to make a wide variety of projects that are as edgy as they are whimsical, including a gallery of feminist icons in badge form, entertaining busy book pages to smash the patriarchy as you play, and stylised depictions of the female reproductive system as Christmas tree decorations. The glueing, stitching and embroidery techniques Missy employs are easy to master, and whatever the project, there is all the step-by-step practical guidance you need to ensure impressive results.

Tilly and the Buttons: Stretch! offers perfect proof that easy-to-wear clothes can be seriously stylish with a collection of outfits that combine the comfort of stretch fabrics with Tilly Walnes' signature look. The book includes complete, full-size patterns. Even experienced stitchers are often wary of working with stretch knit fabrics, but in this book Tilly demystifies the techniques needed and shows how to sew stretchy makes on a regular sewing machine - no need for a fancy overlocker. However, if you are already an overlocker owner, the book offers a user-friendly introduction to threading and stitching with this machine too. Aimed at dressmakers who have grasped the basics and want to expand their sewing horizons, Tilly's tried-and-tested, learn-as-you-make approach is structured around five made-to-measure, speedy-to-sew garments. Tilly's friendly instructions and the clear step-by-step photographs are accompanied by lots of tips and tricks to make your sewing a breeze, and the multiple variations and ideas will help you customise your garment to suit your own style.

Skip the tracing and cutting - just pop out templates and jump right into English paper piecing six mini quilts! Begin with a unique English paper piecing glue-pen method and finish with simple applique to create six stunning mini quilts.

12 angels in all shapes and forms for every month of the year! A bookmark, coaster, lapel pin, doily and more are just a few of the angel designs in this book. All are made using size 10 crochet thread and a size 7/1.65mm crochet hook. Holiday angels include Luck of the Irish, Harvest Blessings and Christmas angel. Skill level: Intermediate.

You'll love these portable projects! Make the most of the moments you spend in waiting rooms, lunch rooms, trains, planes, or cars. Learn Kathleen Brown's unique Double Stitch technique--featuring a simple running stitch--and sew wherever you are. Learn to easily sew by hand to join patchwork pieces and create the look of hand quilting at the same time using the Double Stitch technique 14 charming patterns for beginners, including embroidery designs Delightful table runners, pillows, handwork suitable for framing, and more

Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth, and is used to wrap gifts and create bags for carrying things more easily. Once you have learned the basic methods of tying and folding, you can tie furoshiki in different ways to suit the size and shape of the contents within. There is no sewing involved and, using just a square of fabric, Aurelie Le Marec shows you how to wrap all kinds of items from books to guitars and laptops to wine bottles. You can adapt furoshiki to suit items of all shapes and sizes and, with more than 50 furoshiki folds explained with step-by-step illustrations and clear instructions, you can help to reduce waste by making furoshiki part of your everyday life!

With this book you'll create your own gorgeous handmade gifts, stitched with love using the extra fabric scraps that you couldn't bear to just throw away. My Handmade World includes 15 original sewing patterns that incorporate Giovanna Monfeli's eye for detail and her unseen mastery in shaping fabric into amazing objects. The patterns range in difficulty, so beginners may easily complete projects from start to finish, while other patterns will challenge a more advanced sewer to learn some new techniques. Projects include gorgeous nursery mobiles, cute keychains, soft pillows, an adorable doorstop, a handy paperweight, as well as toy animals and poufs that will decorate your living room, and many more. Instructions are thoughtfully hand-illustrated throughout in a clean and simple style and the inspiring photographs showcase the possibilities using different color combinations or fabrics. My Handmade World is sure to become every sewists go-to project book for one-of-a-kind gifts. * Full-size templates * Clear illustrations accompanying almost every step * Beautiful photography by Giovanna showing her creation process