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Best Seasonal Crafts

100 Easy Recipes In Jars
100 Easy Recipes In Jars is a collection of easy to make, delicious jar recipes that will make a big dent in your holiday gift giving list.
Reviews
"Useful, depending on if you want to give gifts in a jar, and if you want to make all those things."
"Wish I had gotten this book to print out.Really don't want to save it for long Was OK some interesting ideas."
"I wish there were more pictures of the finished product."
"Its good, just need more than just the normal sweets everyone always gets."
"It looks good for Christmas, but I have not yet read it."
"This book was okay but the ideas just were not for me."
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55 Christmas Balls to Knit: Colorful Festive Ornaments, Tree Decorations, Centerpieces, Wreaths, Window Dressings
Since 2002, Scandinavian knitting sensations Arne and Carlos have used their unique style sense to translate traditional Scandinavian knitwear designs into individual patterns perfect for holiday décor. 'Tis the season to be making, with help from this new book by Norwegian knitwear design stars Arne and Carlos, who bring a sense of originality to this festive season with these ornamental designs. ABR's knitting correspondent is currently on a gap year but as soon as she's back, I hope to have a proper assessment of the book's delights.-Artbookreview.net We love Norweigan knitwear design stars Arne and Carlos who although best known for their knitwear designs have made magic with thier needles to bring a whole new side of fun with their ornamental balls. In their new book '55 Christmas Balls to Knit' the duo show readers a whopping 55 tradition inspired projects to make that are ideal for the tree, wreaths, mantels, centrepieces and window dressings and make perfect gifts. Many of the designs are quick to make but also give those new to knitting the chance to learn some new skills on a small scale.-www.themakingspot.com '55 Christmas Balls to Knit' is probably the cutest Christmas knitting book - ever. The patterns in the book have an old fashioned kind of feel and indeed some of the fair isle designs are sourced from vintage patterns. The balls are knitted on four needles which meant that I handed the book to Mum to actually knit the balls. More than that if you want a peak into the whimsical world of Arne and Carlos they put a lot of themselves into this book which makes it Nice- with a capital N!-Jennyflowerblue.blogspot.com Do something different with your Christmas decorations this year - knit them! Norwegian knitwear design stars Arne and Carlos bring fun-filled holiday crafting to knitters everywhere with their ornamental balls. The book is bursting with creativity and inspiration so with one set of instructions and 55 patterns, pick up your needles and start knitting.-Machine Knitting Monthly This year, the Scandinavian style is the look to achieve in the home at Christmas. With step-by-step instructions, how-to tips and full-colour photos, this book is perfect for knitting something special.-Crafts Beautiful "We live and work in an old train station in a rural community in Norway" - the first thing you learn about Arne and Carlos, and that explains it all. 55 Christmas Balls To Knit is just a fun and quirky book, and now I want to have a go at all of the balls - though it might take me until next Christmas before I'm finished!-Artbookreview.net This is a book for pattern knitters, hexipuffers and those obsessive sock stitchers out there. Arne and Carlos' passion for knitting pattern design and life in general really comes across in this book. Now, Norwegian knitwear design stars, Arne and Carlos, bring fun-filled holiday crafting to knitters everywhere with their ornamental balls. "-Craft Focus Since 2002, Scandinavian knitting sensations Arne and Carlos have used their unique style sense to translate traditional Scandinavian knitwear designs into individual patterns perfect for holiday décor.
Reviews
"I carry these Christmas ball projects with me to knit whenever I have a spare minute. Quick knitting projects with a bit of a challenge and beautiful results!"
"Arne and Carlos have wriiten a great book."
"Been making these christmas balls for several years and my tree is so warm an lovely thanks to the boys!"
"It is an interesting book to read, but more to the point it is a great pattern book."
"Lovely christmas ideas and knitted christmas ornaments ."
"I am using up my yarn, learning a new way to knit and getting ready for Christmas."
"Finally ordered it from amazon, and am now enjoying knitting some Christmas gifts."
"I bought this book after viewing their You Tube about knitting Christmas balls."
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Taking Back Your Holidays: A Whimsical Guide to a Lighter, Brighter Christmas
Not-your-typical Martha Stewart holiday planning, this book gives you insights to your favorite holiday traditions, practical tips for creating pockets of peace for your family, and ideas for sharing a stress-free Christmas with your loved ones. Then grab a candy cane or hot cocoa, slip on a cozy sweater, and let Dr. Xmas remind you that there is indeed magic in them thar holiday moments.” - Eric Poole, Author of Where’s My Wand: One Boy’s Magical Triumph Over Alienation and Shag Carpeting. "Filled with practical tips and humorous history, Taking Back Your Holidays will remind you of why we go through these insane weeks each year, and show you how to truly enjoy the holidays and not just muddle through them.
Reviews
"My key take away: make a list of your family's must dos for the holidays."
"It was pretty and informative with great pictures and a lot of ideas!"
"Keeping activities low key helps lower stress and makes everything more enjoyable."
"This book gave me great ideas and even a bit of history on our many traditions of the holiday."
"I loved the feeling that I really wanted to feel good about Christmas again."
"A lovely book with the perfect mix of practical ideas, interesting facts, and moving,powerful reminders about what holidays are really about."
"This is a fun book to read, with good simple common sense suggestions!"
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Best Crafts & Hobbies

I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence
Take a cue from entertaining expert. Amy. Sedaris and host an unforgettable fete that will have your guests raving. "In A t Home with Amy Sedaris , Ms. Sedaris offers deliriously twisted takes on the homemaking skills she skewered in her books I Like You and Simple Times ." The fourth disc contains a PDF file with all 76 recipes for her "15-minute meals in 20 minutes," which were read aloud on the previous discs, in addition to 70 more "Jackpot Recipes." The actor, caterer, film star, comic, and sister of David Sedaris charms, seduces, entertains, instructs, amuses, and just plain invites readers into her somewhat eclectic life. Readers will revel in the more than 100 recipes with menus for dozens of occasions (or not), from blind date at home to table for one (an evening alone, that is, with steak and salad). Her recipes, by the way, are no rivals to the Culinary Institute of America; for instance, the directions for "carrot coins" call for slicing carrots so they look like coins and sauteing with butter, salt, and pepper.
Reviews
"Serious recipes interspersed with "serious" humor read by Amy in her adorable voice."
"Visually, the layout is great and the art is varied and fun (I can't decide which I prefer: the photos or the illustrations). What I learned from the book was about relaxing, whether in terms of cooking, entertaining or just life in general. I was never an uptight cook or baker but I often felt that entertaining was a lot of pressure. My teachers ranged from my mother to Martha Stewart, neither of whom would suggest a sombrero with a brimful of chips = Fiesta Night."
"This is the second copy of this I have had to buy."
"There are numerous references to material by page number which are useless here. So, with graphics that are incomprehensible and text that zig zags all over the place, it's a testament to the authors enormous talent and my perseverence that I give this book 4 stars."
"so why would i have a book like this? it is the most amusing, funny, clever, delightful, helpful, informative book about ANY subject i've read about anything!"
"I found this hilarious book in the stack of reading material at my dear friend Linda's house (well, okay, it was in her bathroom) during one of our girl pal weekends in October."
"Irreverent Sedaris humor is to be expected in this perfect hostess book."
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Best Home Decorating

The Loverly Wedding Planner: The Modern Couple's Guide to Simplified Wedding Planning
Your Modern Guide for Planning a Wedding that’s Perfectly You. Wedding planning can be a bit overwhelming, but with the helpful how-tos and insider advice in this handy wedding book, you can forget the stress and focus on creating a day that truly reflects you as a couple. Get a head start on being the best MOH ever and give her this essential guide to bridal everything from the creators of inspirational site Lover.ly.
Reviews
"My fiancé jokingly says that this book, the Loverly Wedding Planner, may have been written as a “wedding planning guide for the guy”."
"My sister in law is also planning her wedding and so this book will get a lot of use out of it."
"This is all along with recommendation on how far in advance you need to get it done ( for example while the wedding is 12 months away, 9 months, etc)."
"I thought this book will help a couple decide where to begin with wedding planning and to really express what is important to them including budget , where to hold the wedding and who are you inviting."
"This book will walk you through all of the planning processes for having a wedding. Planning a wedding can be a very stressful time, but this book will help you out a lot."
"It was also really nice that this book had places to write down your thoughts or worksheets that helped to guide you through the wedding planning process."
"It has photos, checklists, ideas, tips for choosing venues, tips for pitcures and anouncments, setting the date and much more information which is useful for those about to get married. Lots of great info a must read if your planning to get married."
"In addition to being a great guide, it can also become something of a keepsake, as you can write notes at the end of each chapter."
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Best Knitting

Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible: 260 Exquisite Patterns by Hitomi Shida
The knitting projects include: A classic hat made using large patterns An elegant scarf in lacy patterns The ever-popular fingerless mittens Thick socks that can be made using various patterns A feminine collar using round stitching And much more! "You will be stunned by the complexity and beauty of these unique motifs — and the intensity does not diminish as you page through the book. "Roehm translates the imaginative work of Shida, one of Japan's best-known hand-knitting designers, into English for the first time. Shida gained an international following with the Japanese publication of a book of couture knitting patterns a decade ago, and here presents hundreds of other patterns, adding scallops, yokes, and edgings to her offerings … For intrepid knitters looking for a challenge, the pages of stunning stitches will prove well worth the effort." "…experienced knitters will be tempted to give it a go after paging through the handsomely photographed knit swatches, each of which is accompanied by unlabeled charts. She has been teaching, designing and writing books for over 20 years, and her work already enjoys a worldwide following among Japanese knitting fans. Gayle Roehm now devotes herself to fiber arts and happily spends her days with yarn and needles.
Reviews
"The book is divided into chapters, each with its own small project: Lacy Patterns, Overall Patterns and Crossing Stitches, Pattern Panels, Pattern Arrangements, Round Yokes and Edgings. This is a must have book for anyone who enjoys designing their own knits, loves texture and is a stitch pattern enthusiast."
"I could spend the rest of my life knitting patterns from this lovely book. It takes a bit of time for the eye and mind to decipher the symbols."
"It is a book I go to so often, Sometimes for a pattern idea but often just to browse as the work is so exquisite."
"An entirely new way of thinking about knitting."
"Waited for publication."
"Exquisite is accurate."
"Fabulous designs, can't wait to use them in projects!"
"Just when you thought you couldn't be dazzled any more, "Japanese Knitting Stitch Bible" comes along to blow you away!"
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Best Decorative Graphic Design

The Art of the Tree: Designer Tips and Techniques for Your Best Looking Christmas Tree Ever! (Celebrate Abundantly Book 1)
Reviews
"In addition to being full of creative ways to design your tree like a pro, The Art of the Tree is full of ideas and organizational tips, including wonderful checklists to keep you organized and take the stress out and put the fun in."
"Christmas tree themes? I didn’t but Cassie does."
"This is a great book for those who have no idea where to start when it comes to decorating their Christmas tree."
"From choosing themes and color schemes to organizing materials and everything in between, The Art of the Tree delivers everything the that it promises."
"Cassie has not only written a helpful book but has been such a blessing to me when I lived in TN."
"I honestly had never thought about decorating my Christmas tree as an art, and I'm an artist!"
"Each chapter has tips for each part of your tree."
"I can't wait to use some of the very practical tips to bring a touch of style to our favorite family ornaments."
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Best 30-Minute Craft, Hobby & Home Short Reads

A Life Worth Living
A short story for dog lovers, this touching memoir of a shelter dog shares his experiences in his own voice, taking readers from his days of abuse, to the shelter, to a home filled with love.
Reviews
"I hope those who read this book realize there is a way they can help these dogs out of the shelter and into a loving home, They are worth saving, They do have " A LIFE WORTH LIVING"."
"They can endure all sorts of neglect and abuse - and still have hearts full of forgiveness, loyalty and love."
"His emotions, fears, happiness, struggles and, finally, his letting go of a wonderful worldly life together."
"If you wish to read another good story told from the dog's perspective try reading The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein."
"Interesting story - how many people wonder what their furry friend is thinking?"
"However, all animals of higher intelligence have certain emotional needs in common and they express themselves much as we do with the exception of speech."
"What was starting out sad had a good turn for Lester."
"My husband have fostered 17 rescue dogs and counting."
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Best Applique

Wool Appliqué Folk Art: Traditional Projects Inspired by 19th-Century American Life
Savor the richness and beauty of wool appliqué—its texture, depth, color, and design. ( The Canadian Quilter, Autumn 2015 ) Rebekah L. Smith studied graphic design at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and specializes in wool work, murals, and American folk art.
Reviews
"As the title suggests all the projects in this book follow the folk art (primitive) aesthetic and were inspired by artifacts of the 19th century and this is reflected in both the motifs and colors used throughout. Also given are illustrated instructions for the easy embroidery stitches used in the projects: blanket, outline, running, whipstitch, French knot, and stars. The tools and supplies list for creating the projects is a fairly short one with easy to obtain items that most sewists probably already have, such as: scissors, rotary cutter/mat/ruler, Sharpie marker, various needles, pins, freezer paper (I get mine at Walmart), and embroidery floss."
"The artist has shared some beautiful hand applique projects for us to create."
"Excellant source for primitive Americana wool applique stitches and method."
"REBEKAH SMITH IS A BEAUTIFUL WOOL APPLIQUE STITCHER."
"Something I really want to do and think the directions are great making wool applique look doable for me."
"I love working with wool and this book makes me want to make every project."
"Good ideas, well written, easy to understand, I changed up the colors as it is rather civil war drab, but good book."
"There's not enough information in this book for someone that knows nothing about wool appliqué."
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Best Antique & Collectible Americana

The Smithsonian's History of America in 101 Objects
Beautifully designed and illustrated with color photographs throughout, The Smithsonian's History of America in 101 Objects is a rich and fascinating journey through America's collective memory, and a beautiful object in its own right. This humanistic approach to storytelling makes for immersive, addictive reading.” Kirkus Reviews : “Smithsonian Undersecretary Kurin’s tales are abundant, so much so that it seems almost a shame to stop at a mere 101 items....A well-conceived and well-illustrated pleasure to read, combining narrative history and keepsake volume.”. He is the author of several books, including Hope Diamond: The Legendary History of a Cursed Gem , and his scholarship and museological work have been recognized by the International Council of Museums, UNESCO, and Harvard's Peabody Museum.
Reviews
"You can gaze at each object in detail, consider the respective narrative, and what comes through is a value base--i.e., what is held dearly-- which is distinctly American."
"Kurin has written a very interesting series of articles about these 101 objects and how they relate to the history of America."
"I bought this book as a gift, but from my sneak peak I think this will be an interesting as well as an entertaining book to read."
"What is not to love about anything Smithsonian?"
"I've had this book for about a week now and I've read just read about 2 objects."
"The book is filled with an immense amount of information which is presented in a fascinating, readable way."
"I am moving to the USA soon and thought it would be interesting to get to know some of the history of my next home country and this book is a really great source for that."
"An excellent book: One of the best put out by The Smithsonian."
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