First published in 1939, Made in England is a book about the crafts and people of the cottage industries of England, from the social historian, illustrator and photographer Dorothy Hartley. In the mid 1930s Hartley travelled by car and bicycle, gathering material for the book. This is a portrait not only of the rural industries - whether wood-carving or stone-work, weaving or pottery, but also of the people engaged in these occupations. Written in direct prose and with innate curiosity, each chapter covers a specific skill,and is illustrated with Hartley's own photographs and charming, accurate pen and ink drawings. As these traditional skills became less widespread, our own connection to the land and ancient knowledge is threatened. The republication of this book is aimed at restoring some of those lost links, and reviving interest in craft and making by hand.

A detailed and well illustrated work on leathercraft and production, first published in the 1940s. Contents Include: Foreword - Plates - Introduction - Materials - Design - Cutting Your Pattern and Material: Construction Notes - Small Articles - Handbags - Travelling Equipment - Gloves - Slippers. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. Home Farm Books are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

The folk artists of Italy have created some of the most beautiful crafts in the world: laces, mosaics, leatherwork, quilting, and wood inlay are among the most well-known. In this vintage book, originally published in 1977, Janet and Alex D Amato explore these traditional Italian crafts as well as others not so well known, such as tambour (a kind of crocheting worked directly into a fabric), straw marquetry (a mosaic-like craft done with tiny pieces of straw), wood carving and quillwork. They explain each craft as it was originally practiced, then adapt it to make contemporary craft pieces. The projects include an embroidered full length apron, a bobbin lace wall hanging, a straw marquetry box, jewelry, and many more. Also included are instructions for a Presepio (a traditional Italian manger scene) and a Pinocchio marionette. Italian Crafts will teach you the traditional folk arts of Italy, and will inspire you to use those folk arts in new and creative ways. There are line drawings and photographs throughout this unique book."