When did times change so much that giving an actual book as a gift became novel and maybe even a little luxurious? I’m all for a good eBook, of course – there are times that downloading an eBook is a great solution. It was only earlier this year that I discovered the magic of them for myself, once I installed the Kindle app on my iPad. Now that’s a party I wish I’d shown up to sooner!
But there’s still something about a beautiful, heavy, picture-laden book splayed out in front of you that’s inspirational, and I think that applies double to craft books. And even better, they make terrific gifts. And since so many of us are buying gifts this time of year, why not share the magic of handmade with someone you love?
And to make it even easier for you, I’ve compiled a list (with links! easy peasy!) of some of the best craft books of 2015 – you’re sure to find a new favorite here.
All photos are courtesy of Amazon.com, which is where the links will take you.
Knitting
Mini Skein Knits: 25 Knitting Patterns Using Small Skeins and Leftovers
by Lark Crafts
As someone who is new to yarn crafts, this question has already crossed my mind – what should I do with the yarn left over from a completed project? This book addresses that with 25 great projects.
Crochet
by Lucy Collin
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that Star Wars is really hot again this year (something about another movie coming out soon….yes?). This is not only a book, but a kit complete with instructions, yarn, a hook, a needle, and even safety eyes. Fun, right?!?
Quilting
Baby Quilts: Simple, colorful designs for little ones
by Anjeanette Klinder
The author, Anjeanette Klinder, is a lovely friend of mine whose work I’ve admired for years, and it’s so exciting to see her come out with this great book! The projects are small (so they don’t take forever!) and colorful (so they’re fun to make) and the book even has a how-to techniques section.
Embroidery
Rebecca Ringquist’s Embroidery Workshops: A Bend-the-Rules Primer
by Rebecca Ringquist
This beautiful book is great for the embroidery beginner with a modern style or someone looking for fresh inspiration. The photos are gorgeous and the projects are new and fun – and word is, there’s a surprise in the back of the book!
Garment Sewing for Tweens and Teens
Miss Figgy's Garment School for Girls: Learn to Sew 15 Classic Pieces Tweens and Teens Sizes 10-16
by Shelly Figueroa
I have it on pretty good authority from a friend who teaches kids to sew that this is a fantastic book. And for the young lady in your life, why not learn with patterns and techniques aimed at that age?
General Sewing
How to Speak Fluent Sewing: The Indispensable Illustrated Guide to Sewing and Fabric Terminology
by Christine Haynes
If you’re baffled by sewing terms, tools, materials, patterns or techniques, this book is for you! This fully illustrated guide explains the “what” and the “why” of sewing, which will get you on your way to creating in no time.
Coloring
by Thaneeya McArdle
Adult coloring books is one of the biggest trends of 2015, and I say that it’s about time! Coloring is simple, it’s fun, it’s relaxing and it can even be meditative. Use crayons, markers, colored pencils, or all of them – whatever you have on hand – and have fun!
Chalk Lettering
The Complete Book of Chalk Lettering: Create and Develop Your Own Style
by Valerie McKeehan
It’s everywhere these days, on signs, cards, posters, and even on chalkboards – gorgeous chalk lettering. The beauty of chalk lettering is that it’s so easy to fix your mistakes, and even if it’s a little messy, it still looks great.
Jewelry Making
Jewelry Making 1-2-3: 45+ Simple Projects
by Karin Van Voorhees
Jewelry making is fun because many projects can be finished quickly, and they you have the satisfaction of wearing what you made. This book is a great guide to getting started, then taking your projects to the next level with some creative swapping.
Creativity
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
by Elizabeth Gilbert
I’d be totally remiss if I didn’t include this gem of 2015 in my list. It doesn’t have any projects in it, but it’s a fascinating and in-depth look at the creative process, including how we sometimes get tripped up in it. This book is a must for any creative person!
I hope this list gives you some great gift ideas to make your shopping a little easier, or maybe as a way to treat yourself to some creative time!