Crafts

Although I have been embroidering for almost 2 years now, I still consider myself a beginner. I am often hesitant to look at patterns and new projects, for fear that I will be intimated. But celebrated embroidery artist Yumiko Higuchi’s new book was the perfect one to ease my fears and boost my confidence. With splendid photographs, and clear, step-by-step instructions and diagrams, this book will be a delight for embroidery novices and experts alike. The designs somehow manage to be fresh and simple all at once. My favorite aspect of this book were the tips on using metallic thread to make a motif feel layered and stand out. This is a beautiful and lovely book for any embroiderer in your life (including yourself!). - S.M.C.

Sewing, embroidery, and anything to do with needle and thread have long been considered “women’s work” and disregarded as frivolous. Clare Hunter takes us on a journey through time to shine a light on the enormous impact of these underestimated crafts—embroidery used as medieval propaganda, quilts that World War II POWs made to regain their individuality, the 1980’s AIDS quilt, pussy hats after the 2016 election. This trip through textile history is perfect for the history nerd and contemporary sewist alike. - J Gallo

This book is a piece of art in and of itself. It details the process of artisans who work on crafts that have almost slipped into obscurity. I jump at every chance I get to learn about a new form of crafting and making. The chapters on the book mender and the kintsugi (the Buddhist art of mending pottery with gold lacquer) are especially fascinating. Get this for the crafter in your life who flits from one practice to another and is equally excited about all of them. - J Gallo

I was not expecting a memoir about a bale of wool, but it turns out the bale is the perfect vehicle to explore the American wool landscape and its future. Parkes’ writing allows the newbie to jump in feet first, while at the same time provides a homey return for those familiar with the lifestyle (from shearing to spinning to knitting). This is a love letter to wool, to the process and the people involved, and to the joy of being able to play with it to create something new. - Rachel

I’m very excited to read the testimonials extolling the virtues of quilting in this book. I’ve been sewing for most of my life and quilting for at least the last 5 years, and I love hearing about how sewing and quilting have changed people’s lives and helped them to change the world around them. Each of the chapters speaks to me: I quilt to connect with tradition, I quilt and sew to eschew consumer culture, and I quilt because I can! Gift this to the fabric addict who handmakes their gifts every year. - J Gallo

Chock full of fun projects (including a duvet cover, lampshades, and a hammock), varied dye techniques, and beautifully photographed step-by-step instructions, Hand Dyed is this season’s perfect craft book. There’s nothing like a messy, colorful project for a beautiful spring or summer day that you can enjoy outside. A great supplement to the muted neutrals of the natural dye trend, these dye projects will add a punch of vibrant color to your home and wardrobe. - Megan

This sweet collection of 30 embroidery motifs is focused on showing how to stitch charming things for the sole purpose of making life a little more beautiful. Yumiko stays true to the aesthetic of her previous books by way of zakka, a Japanese word meaning “miscellaneous things,” usually used to describe anything that improves your home or life. Add a little swimmer or a dandelion crest to your favorite bag or jacket and work your way to a more beautiful life. - Megan

Designer and illustrator Jason Logan wanted safer art materials for his kids, so he started looking into making his own from scratch. He got hooked on making ink—and you will likely, too, after reading his gorgeous book. Make Ink explores the plethora of materials—including rust, peach pits, and soot!—that can be used to make rich, vibrant inks, and turns going outside into a treasure hunt to find plants and materials. - Megan

Macramé is back, and whether you’re new to it or you’ve been knotting since the 1970s, you’ll enjoy the terrific styling and photography and the clear and easy-to-follow instructions in Modern Macramé. If you’re still unsure of this “new” trend, spend a little time with this book; its range of projects runs from those that are easy to make to those that are ambitious. - Megan

Not just for crafters, Alanna Okun’s essays about life as a independent woman in the modern age are written from the heart. She explores timeless subjects from learning to live with yourself (literally and figuratively), to body image, facing fears and anxieties of all kinds, and (of course) fitting knitting and what it is to “be a crafter” into everyday life. Alanna is relatable and interesting, funny, and thoughtful. I like her and I think you will, too. - Megan