Figureheads developed from an ancient tradition of decorating vessels with painted eyes, carved figures and animal heads. Vikings in Northern Europe adorned the bows of their ships with dragon heads, which were thought to help ships see their way through the sea. But what other purposes did sailors believe figureheads served? What stories do these beautiful objects tell? And what do the different characters symbolise? Exploring the history and traditions associated with figureheads, this illustrated guide contains 60 examples from the National Maritime Museum, home to the world's largest collection of figureheads. With a selection of short in-focus studies, the book looks at mythology, memorial, gender, empire, politics and literature surrounding these unique carvings. The National Maritime Museum is part of Royal Museums Greenwich.

Colorful and creative, a patchwork project has endless possibilities. This easy-to-follow guide offers beginners a practical approach to transforming inspiration into finished products, with an introduction to the essential tools, basic methods and helpful techniques of patchwork, and five simple projects to make: a pin cushion, a square cushion, a windmill crib blanket, applique, and a project involving unusual patterns and materials. Beautifully photographed with helpful illustrations of each technique, plus templates for the projects, "Patchwork for Beginners" contains everything a first-time quilter needs to get started. Published to accompany Quilts 1700-2010, an exhibition opening at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London in March 2010, the book contains inspiring samples from their collection.