Turn back time for a walk with daring dinosaurs, marvelous mammoths, crafty cave people and many more. Dodo Dominique can tell you all the ancient gossip; Brad the Brachiosaurus wants to open a turtleneck sweater shop; and Paula Parasaurolophus doesn't go anywhere without her stegosaurus teddy. The characters in this book, created by various designers, have arrived with a bang and will bring a whole new world to life. So dust off your crochet hook, dig up your yarns, and get ready for the most imaginative playtime yet.

At its height British toymaking was a significant industry, with famous names such as Britains and Meccano known throughout the world. While in essence a specialised form of small-scale engineering, its products and market have always been unique, reflecting the current priorities of both parents and children. Yet, while individual toys and marques have been catalogued extensively, no previous history of toymaking as a whole exists. The British Toy Business provides a fascinating example of the development of a specific industry.
Many early early toys were home-made. From the eighteenth century, with its growing recognition of children as something other than small adults, date the beginnings of specialised toys, usually produced by small workshops and sold by street-sellers. The nineteenth century, with its industrial growth and middle-class prosperity, saw an expansion of toymaking.
The 1960s and 1970s were the most successful years of British toymaking, with companies like Lesney making record profits. Yet British toy makers failed to solve a number of fundamental problems. Following an unexpected sudden downturn in sales at a time of high interest rates, the major names in British toy making, Lesney, Airfix, Mettoy and Dunbee Combex Marx, all collapsed between 1979 and 1985, leaving the business to be dominated largely by importers.

No other craft so brilliantly captures the magic of turning a handle, icking a switch, or pulling a lever to see the unexpected come to life. "Automata and Mechanical Toys" is a book for anyone drawn to simple, entertaining mechanics. The book features 21 leading makers, each with a distinctive style. With 160 color photos and 100 delightful examples of the craft, the book is a feast for collectors and enthusiasts. A substantial section of the book is devoted to making automata mechanisms, ideal for novices or those wishing to learn new techniques. Illustrated, step-by-step instructions explain how to make a bearings box, which separately houses all the main mechanisms used in automata. The box can then be converted to any mechanism you choose. Rodney Peppe is a winner of the British Toymakers' Guild Toy of the Year Award; he has had exhibitions of his work at the Victoria & Albert Museum of Childhood. He is also the author of "Rodney Peppe's Moving Toys."

Everthing you need to know to create an entire miniature market and incredibly realistic produce in polymer clay. Master modeller Angie Scarr has perfected the craft of creating fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, cheeses, bread, pastries and gateaux in marvellous detail - right down to the earth on her potatoes and delicate veining on cabbage leaves and orange segments - and setting them in context by building market stalls, complete with striped canopies, wooden fruit boxes, punnets and other display items. Polymer clay modelling techniques include: simple caning; colour blending; stacking; advanced caning; combination techniques; advanced ideas; Step-by-step colour photography shows you how to create your own mouthwatering masterpieces of miniature art. Full plans and construction techniques for all the projects. Out of the dolls' house and into the street - bringing miniature hobbyists to a wider panorama for their craft.

The reader of this exciting new title will have as much fun making the projects as they will playing the games! All of the 20 projects are designed to be made with the beginner woodworker in mind and using only basic woodworking tools and equipment, so they really are accessible to all. The comprehensive, step-by-step instructions are based on standard sizes of wood so that pieces simply need to be cut to length with some basic shaping. All accessories required will be readily available making each project as straightforward as possible to create. Alongside step-by-step photos each project will also include drawings where necessary. Each project will also include instructions on how to play the game along with the all-important rules! Projects include: Skittles, Giant Jenga, Giant Chess, Croquet, Lawn Darts, Giant Dominoes, Quoits.

Cross the finish line in the fastest car! Any parent and child can build a successful Pinewood Derby(R) car with the designs and techniques in this enjoyable book.Derby-winning dads reveal their scout-legal tricks for making faster cars, using ordinary tools that you probably already have at home.With hundreds of colour photographs and clear diagrams and illustrations, this essential handbook offers tips for designing your own car, placing the weights, optimizing the wheels, applying a cool paint job and more.Simple explanations of derby car speed science will inspire you to shave those last tenths of a second off your time and go home with the trophy.

If you have some woodturning experience, new you can create something truly special for family and friends. These beautiful hand-crafted toys are as enjoyable to make as they are to play with. Clear step-by-step instructions, detailed photographs and easy-to-follow diagrams start with simple toys and increase in complexity. Projects are a mixture of pure turned ones and also basic constructs, whereby turned items may be cut apart and resection to create something different. The 20 charming projects include simple turned animals, spinning top, tea party items, skittles, pull-along train and indoor quoits. Each project is designed to be tactile and visually attractive as well as fun to use, and all toys are long lasting and comply with safety standards.

Sweet and soft animal friends made with popular Japanese knitting techniques. This collection of 25 cuddly toy animals includes everything from favorite pets to zoo animals. Made with soft materials and adorable expressions, these sweet companions make the perfect gift for newborns, grandchildren and animal lovers alike. While some fit in the palm of your hand, the largest is the huggable size of 16 inches (40 cm). The knitted animal projects in this book include: Beatrix the Rabbit William the Penguin Mimi the Japanese Dormouse Winston the Sloth Frannie the Doe Harry the Hedgehog And many more! Each animal is knitted in parts and then felted and sewn together. Detailed instructions and photos guide you through the key steps of construction, while a set of steps for executing specific stitches simplifies the process. Clear explanations of the knitting charts and symbols help you learn the basics of Japanese-style knitting. Projects should be knit with natural fibers that can be felted to achieve that perfectly cozy feel. In creating these cute critters, author Hiroko Ibuki pored over the details of each animal--striving to make them cute, while also capturing their unique characteristics. The result is a collection of charming toys full of personality and room for creativity. Toys with removable features are not recommended for infants.

Add a little fun to your home decor with these eight modern amigurumi designs. Each design is made using Premier Yarns Anti-Pilling DK-weight yarn and a size D/3/3.25mm hook. Designs range from 10" to 6".

Pour your favorite yarns together and stir them with your best crochet hook: the crochet spells in this new collection will bring the most fantastical amigurumi to life! 14 enchanting characters have opened the door to a magical world, and you'll be swept off your feet before you know it. Chase after the untraceable yeti, take a nap with a sleeping baby dragon, don't look into Medusa's eyes for too long and hitch a ride on the back of a hippogriff. And there's much more at the end of this amigurumi rainbow! Beginners as well as advanced crocheters can conjure up these fabulous fantasy creatures with a flick of their hooks. All patterns are written in US English crochet terms and accompanied by easy-to-follow step-by-step pictures as well as video tutorials of all stitches used. They are easily customizable, so it's a small step to imagine your very own fantasy amigurumi!

Designing and making successful automata involves combining materials, mechanisms and magic. Making Simple Automata book explains how to design and construct small scale, simple mechanical devices made for fun. Materials such as paper and card, wood, wire, tinplate and plastics are covered along with mechanisms - levers and linkages, cranks and cams, wheels, gears, pulleys, springs, ratchets and pawls. This wonderful book is illustrated with examples throughout and explains the six golden rules for making automata alongside detailed step-by-step projects.

Moo, Oink, Knit
Knit up your favorite furry or feathered critter, or make the whole barnyard The colorful characters in this book--including a clever pig, a gentle donkey, and a family of chickens--would love to be your friends. Children and grown-ups alike will fall for the fifteen bighearted, oversize farm animals designed in Sarah Keen's signature style.
All of these roly-poly toys, made with child-friendly yarn and durable finishing techniques, are quick to knit and can withstand years of affection. Whether you're a beginner or you simply need a refresher, a comprehensive reference of knitting basics and toy-making techniques will help get your needles clicking--or clucking--right away.
Also available as an ebook

Crochet the zodiac with these crochet patterns for amigurumi horoscope dolls - the perfect present for all astrology lovers. Whether you're a sensitive Pisces or a loyal Leo, you can create your own special zodiac dolls with these cute amigurumi patterns from best-selling author, Carla Mitrani. Astrology has never been so popular - it offers fun and distraction in challenging times - and this collection of doll crochet patterns is the perfect way to enjoy your zodiac sign and to make gifts for all your family and friends to treasure. Each of the zodiac doll crochet patterns draw on the symbols of the star sign that they represent so they are immediately recognisable whether it's Aquarius the Water Carrier, Cancer the Crab or Sagittarius the Centaur with their bow and arrow. The designs also reference the characteristics and personality traits of each of the star signs so, for example, Taurus is carrying a pot plant to symbolise their love of gardening. And there are fun explanations of which signs are the most compatible for love and friendship. So, whether you're a passionate Scorpio, a serious Capricorn or a trustworthy Taurus, a hard-working Virgo or an extroverted Sagittarius you will find a doll for you. Enjoy finding out more about your star sign's traits, as well as your ruling planet, the element of your star sign, your birth stone, lucky colour and more. Find out which well known men and women share the same star sign as you and have fun working out whether your real-life friends match up with your most compatible stars signs. These amigurumi patterns are easy to follow and fun to make. There are step-by-step instructions and photography for the more advanced techniques and stitches for the dolls, and the general techniques section covers all the crochet basics so that you can get started right away. Carla has included plenty of her tips and tricks to ensure that you get the best finish possible for your finished dolls. The dolls are pocket-sized (measuring 14cm/6inches), so they are a great way to use up your scraps and make the perfect portable project.

Crocheted sisters Amelie and Mako and are ready for anything--a day at the beach, a birthday bash, a visit to the library--and their outfits are, too! In this book, popular Japanese amigurumi designer Miya takes you step-by-step through the doll-making process, showing you how to create two charming doll companions, their teddy bear pal Marron, and 63 miniature wardrobe additions--ranging from warm winter coats to delicate ballet slippers. Clear instructions provide a pattern for each clothing item and accessory. A basic guide to the crochet stitches used in the book is included as a refresher to the symbols and stitch execution. Projects are given in both graphs and charts, as well as pictorial instructions. Mix-and-match doll clothing and accessories, including: Cozy, cold-weather wear for looking great on chilly days Chic pants, tops, berets, or straw hats for a market-day-in-Paris vibe Charming little tops, like a colorful ruffled tunic--great for a day at the beach Clothes for ballet, cheerleading, and dress-up (be a flight attendant--or dance a hula!) Tote bags, evening bags, and shoulder bags--you can never have too many! And much more! But you don't have to stop here! Handmade toys open up a whole new world for creativity. With this book as a guide, you can create crochet dolls whose colors and features celebrate diversity or design wardrobes based on specific interests. With the inspiration provided in this book, you can do it all. Let it be your springboard to fostering many hours of gentle, creative--and fashion-forward--playtime.

This comprehensive, well illustrated book will give even the most nervous beginner the confidence to produce a unique, handcrafted toy from natural materials. Once you have mastered the basic baby dolls, you can progress to a more ambitious limbed or jointed doll.

The 15 adorable animals in this new collection, made by designers from all over the world, will bring you lots of fresh inspiration and will make a big splash in your yarn stash. Surprise your friends and family with a sweet sheep, a pudgy panda, a tender toucan, a playful penguin, and much more! Projects cover a variety of skill levels, from beginner-friendly to suitable for advanced crocheters, and are accompanied by easy-to-follow instructions. The clear illustrations and handy video tutorials will help you master all stitches and techniques used.

Aren't these the cutest?

- Sixteen meltingly adorable animals

- All the favorites, including cats, dogs, birds, bunnies, more

- Easy to make, great as gifts, toys, decorations

All together now: Awwwww! In Little Felted Animals, author Marie-Noelle Horvath shows how to make the cutest little miniature animals, using just a few simple tools and some wool roving. Birds, bears, cats, dogs, mice, a fox, a sheep, a seal, and a bunny--sixteen little bundles of fluff in all. Picture all those little eyes looking up at you as if to say, "Thank you for making me!" Then give these critters as gifts, use them as decorations, or arrange them on tabletops. Beautifully photographed in their natural habitats, these sweet dumplings will melt the heart of every crafter.

A wonderful new collection of sewing patterns from the author of the Luna Lapin sewing books, Sarah Peel. Immerse yourself once again in the whimsical world of Luna Lapin with this collection of patterns and instructions for five delightful animals. Luna Lapin is a quiet and kind rabbit with impeccable taste and, in this collection, she introduces us to some of her dearest friends. This brand new collection of toy sewing patterns will resonate with sewists of all abilities and the designs are perfect for making wonderful heirloom toys for friends and family which will be treasured forever. Introducing Luna Lapin's New Friends proudly presents five characterful animals and their delightful wardrobes: Ziggy the hedgehog, Ottoline otter, Hamish the Highland cow, Dora the pig and, of course, Luna herself. Author, Sarah Peel, takes classic garments and recreates them on a miniature scale with exquisite fabrics including Liberty cottons, taffeta, corduroy, velvet, lace and wool tweed. All of the animals are made with wool felt and hand sewn using overstitch/whipstitch - this makes them a perfectly portable project that you can work on when you're on the move or when relaxing in the evening. Sarah recommends machine sewing the garments and there are tips and tricks for sewing small items. Have fun sewing each animal's outfit whether it's Ziggy's military jacket and pants, Ottoline's anorak and fisherman's top (which is perfect for keeping her warm on her nautical expeditions), or Hamish's kilt and ruffle top. And Luna also has a new outfit in this collection - she wears a beautiful red velvet skating coat over a full skirted dress for a magical twirl around the frozen lake. As well as the animals and their delightful outfits there are the much-loved whimsical stories that really bring their characters to life. Immerse yourself in the timeless appeal of Luna's Little World and discover how Luna met her friends with this collection of charming stories about the characters and their adventures. There are step-by-step instructions and diagrams for all of the clothes and the animals, and the templates are included at full-size so you can get sewing straight away.

This title presents 15 easy-to-follow knitting patterns with an illustrated techniques section and clear step-by step instructions. All hats have a soft, fleecy lining for added coziness and children's and adult sizes included in patterns. These projects, from a UK author, are suitable for knitters of all abilities. Express your inner animal instincts with these fun and fabulous hats. Adults and children alike will love this collection of absolutely adorable hats, including a cheeky monkey, a roaring lion and an energetic frog. Know-how for knitters is at the back of the book with the basic techniques clearly explained, including how to add a fleecy lining for extra coziness. Sizes are included for children and adults so all the family can have their own hat.

Hip hip hooray, you've been happily invited to the biggest amigurumi party! We're shining a special spotlight on family, friends and the beautiful moments we love to spend together. Get your best hooks and brightest yarns out, and let's start celebrating! Whether it's a romantic wedding, a proud graduation, a long-awaited baby or the family holidays that connect us, there's something to celebrate (and crochet for) all year round! And trust us, nothing says 'I love you' more than a smile and a handmade amigurumi gift to go with it. This festive collection will surprise you with 14 joyful designs. With step-by-step pictures and video tutorials, beginners as well as advanced crocheters can make the perfect amigurumi gifts. Give it up for the biggest milestones in life and your favorite holiday of all time, we're going to crochet the night away!

Snow babies appeal not only to Christmas enthusiasts, but to collectors of dolls, figurines, and miniatures. Principally manufactured in Germany in the early part of this century, these tiny grouted figures decorated cakes in England and mantel pieces in the United States. Today they are avidly sought by collectors, who still use them to create little winter scenes. This carefully researched and documented book explores the origins of snow babies. (Were they created to honor Marie Peary, the daughter of Admiral Peary and the first white baby born in Northern Greenland?) The collection of 700 color photographs, the largest ever published, displays exquisite all-white pieces and the smaller action snow babies. It also introduces the reader to the rare blue and pink snow pieces. Included are chapters on bisque Santas (over 150 of them), elves, dwarves, snowmen, buildings, animals, and other pieces that are collected and displayed with snow babies. A rarity scale and price guide are included.

Enter the world of the reclusive yet mischievous Impkins! I’m sure you have seen them out of the corner of your eye from time to time, racing from hiding place to nook or cranny—odd little creatures of stitch and stuffing, of endless variety in form and manner. In these pages, you will not find a taxonomy of their features or a list of the names by which you might call them, you will find guidance on something far more important—the techniques and methods by which you might craft one of these little stitchlings of your very own. It is a wonderful thing, I assure you, to bring an Impkin to life with hook and yarn, and herein you will find the detailed instructions necessary to craft one, with an endless array of options for ears, antennae, hats, wings, tails, scales, horns, hairstyles, clothing, and accessories. Each Impkin is unique, and only you can listen to find out what yours longs to be. Stitch by stitch, you’ll cast a spell, until at last you have made a brand-new creature. Don’t be surprised if it asks for a snazzy vest or a satchel to hold its treasures! Though hard to spot at first, when you see one Impkin you can be sure there are more around. Impkins are social little creatures; once you make one, it is sure to clamor for a multitude of friends from your hook!

This charming book contains 25 characterful little birds to crochet in amigurumi style! These cute and colourful tiny birds, including a peacock, swan, owl, toucan, penguin, flamingo and even a mini egg, can be crocheted with small amounts of yarn and are perfect for using up your stash. Each of the little fun birds can be used as keychains, baby mobiles, bag pendants or simply to make and collect! Clear and easy-to-follow crochet techniques and diagrams make it easy to get started.

Perfect for novice and experienced crocheters alike, these 30 adorable amigurumi animal patterns are sure to bring a smile to your face! Lauren Espy, author of 2019's No. 1 best-selling amigurumi book, Whimsical Stitches, gives you easy-to-follow patterns so that you can quickly create the cutest amigurumi critters (crocheted stuffed toys). Detailed, step-by-step photos, alongside images of the full animal, will help you crochet creations as cute as what you see on the page. Animal Amigurumi Adventures also features fun facts about each animal to deepen your appreciation for the animals you are creating. Animal Amigurumi Adventures features: Beginner-Friendly Instructions and Tools: Easy-to-follow patterns and basic tools (standard hook and common worsted weight yarn) to get started Step-by-Step Reference Photos: Detailed photographs of each step, as well as the finished product, to help guide you along with confidence. Perfect Size: Each animal averages 7-10 inches in size, making them ideal to display or play with. Patterns include: Safari Animals like a giraffe, elephant, and zebra, Rainforest Animals like a sloth, toucan, and monkey, Ocean Animals like a shark, crab, and orca whale, Arctic Animals like a penguin, puffin, and Arctic fox, Forest Animals like a bear, fox, and raccoon, Pet Animals like a dog, cat, and hamster.

An irresistible felting book for cat lovers! From playful tabbies to fierce black cats, this book shows you how to create felted felines in every shape and posture: crouching, preening, stretching, napping and ready to pounce! Master Japanese felting artist and teacher (and a great cat lover himself) Housetsu Sato shows you how to become an expert in capturing a cat's essential form and character--especially at the kitten stage, when they are full of surprises. In this book Sato teaches you how to: Form the basic shapes and cat body parts Create a variety of familiar cat poses and postures Add realistic textures and markings to the fur Give unique expressions to your cat faces Along the way, he shows you how to infuse your felted friends with a playful sense of "cattitude," including how to incorporate fur from your real kitties into your felted models. Detailed instructions and photos for each cat piece, fur texture and marking make these projects friendly even if you are new to felting. Full-size templates help you form the correct shapes and proportions, and brief lessons in cat anatomy help you make your felted cats truly lifelike. Photos showing variations on the poses and markings make it easy to envision your own cat's likeness emerging from your hands.