August 2014
Once mostly used to bedeck streets and invariably triangular, the humble bunting has come a long way in recent years. Now you can make it for any occasion or none at all and it can look like absolutely anything...
Like a string of sausages, hot air balloons, sheep jumping over gates or retro records. Better still, these small shapes can be made out of anything so this is a fun way of using up leftovers. Most of the other materials can be found in many homes, especially crafty ones. I like the way this author starts with some very basic but useful things, such as starting and finishing threads, making a pompom and tips of turning small fiddly shapes. The projects usually take two pages and feature a large photo of the finished item, plus some helpful photos of various stages. It tells you what materials you need (of course) and also what tools you need - would that all how-to books did this - so you know instantly what you can make right away. As the instructions are mostly written I would not recommend this to somebody who had never made anything before, but not too much sewing know-how is required. As this book is written by a man you can expect some less usual subjects for the bunting, and I like the way most of it does not just consist of one shape repeated but items on a theme. The cooked breakfast is not just sausages, but bacon, fried eggs and teabags too, and Seaside has bucket, sandcastle, spade and shells. There are triangular ones too for those more traditional moments, adorned with feathers, buttons and more for a change. If you want to make bunting but are keen for something a wee bit different, this is a good place to find it.
* Myshelf.com *
October 2014
Love to Sew: Crazy Garlands & Bunting - Alistair Macdonald
Synopsis: A modern take on traditional bunting and garlands, these imaginative designs are easy to make, packed full of fun, and provide an eye-catching addition to any room in the house. Garlands and bunting are popular adornments for the home and all types of celebration. Here, Alistair Macdonald has given these traditional decorations a thoroughly modern twist and created 20 fun and fabulous projects that will make an eye-catching addition to any home or party.
There are projects that are perfect for kitchens, bathrooms and childrens' bedrooms, as well as Christmas, Halloween, Chinese New Year and summer parties. Every one of them is packed full of fun and designed to use a range of materials and fabrics in unique and imaginative ways. Requiring just some basic sewing skills and a great sense of humour, you might choose to make a gorgeous string of 3D hot-air balloons that are just perfect for a child's bedroom, or if you'd prefer, a sensational sausage string complete with felt bacon, eggs and mushrooms and hanging teabags that is bound to get your friends and family talking over the breakfast table.
There's no end to the author's creativity, and every project in the book is guaranteed to delight and inspire you. At the start of the book there is guidance on materials, fabrics, sewing equipment and basic techniques, and templates are provided where these are needed. This book is ideal for sewers of all abilities, especially those looking for new and fresh ideas.
Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict
We love the delightful garlands in this little book, bursting with creativity, and innovative little designs.
There are 20 fun and fabulous projects to excite and inspire you. The content is suitable for all abilities. Includes clear step-by-step instructions, templates, and guidance on materials, equipment and techniques.
* hotbrandscoolplaces.com *
October 2014
Bunting has taken the craft world by storm and there are many books on bunting. However, I do think this offers something different. It is an inventive twist on the traditional garland introducing elements of quirky design and lots of fun. Templates are given where necessary and the instructions are easy to follow no matter what your skill level is. Basic techniques are included. Well photographed and easy to use, you are bound to find many designs that you will want to make. I loved Dreamland, Flower Pots, Set Sail and Counting Sheep. There are twenty designs in all. Great value for money.
* Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *
