David and Charles – serie

Learn how to understand the skies with this comprehensive pocket guide to cloudspotting.Clouds have been the object of fascination throughout history, their fleeting magnificence and endless variability providing food for thought for scientists and daydreamers alike.Clouds may have many individual shapes, but there are a few basic forms. In this definitive guide to the clouds and the skies, Richard Hamblyn introduces you to all the different cloud species. The Pocket Cloud Book will enable you to identify individual clouds, skies and phenomena. You will also be able to track their likely changes over time and predict the implications they have for the weather you may experience.This brand new pocket-size edition includes the 12 new cloud types only recently officially recognised by the World Meteorological Organization. Many of these previously only had informal names, but their new Latin classification brings them into the fold of officially adopted global meteorological terms. It also includes an updated section on climate change and the role that clouds might play in shaping future conditions on Earth.Produced in association with the Met Office - the world's premier weather forecasting bureau - all things to do with the origin and development of a cloud are here. Whether you are looking at a giant cumulonimbus or a tiny shred of stratus factus, an everyday occurrence or a fleeting rarity, your cloudspotting will be expertly informed and much more satisfying with this handy reference guide. This book will enable you to not only identify individual clouds and skies as they might appear at any given moment, but also to track their likely changes over time, and thus predict weather patterns.Illustrated with stunning images from around the globe, this pocket edition is the perfect size to take with you on walks and have it handy in the garden so that you can enjoy sky-gazing every day. This is the only guide to cloud classification that you will ever need, in handy and practical pocket-friendly size.

Discover the beautiful Japanese pattern darning technique kogin and how it can be used to create stunning stitched and quilted projects.Kogin, a counted embroidery technique, is a variation of the popular Japanese embroidery technique sashiko and is rapidly becoming as popular as its 'big sister'. Japanese embroidery expert, Susan Briscoe, has compiled a collection of over 60 pattern charts and 12 accompanying projects to create The Ultimate Kogin Collection, following on from her previous title The Ultimate Sashiko Sourcebook.The projects range from small and very accessible items to larger projects, with step by step instruction to help you:- Try out new stitches and use your samples to create pretty framed pictures- Embellish fabric and sew it into cute pouches and gadget cosies- Create Japanese-inspired homewares with embroidered linens- Choose individual motifs for small projects like little coin purses- Use your stitch samples to create handmade greetings cardsTry these projects or use the patterns to create your own unique makes!

A comprehensive reference that explores the history, evolution, creation and, application of pigment in the world of art and painting.The history and science are riveting; the recipes and techniques are alchemy; the added vision that can be added to an artist’s statement is unparalleledJoin artist and pigment maker Lucy Mayes at work on location and in her studio with this vibrant, dynamic book: a tribute to her passion for the subject and desire to share its stories, riches, and recipesDiscover the techniques and recipes to create colorful shades from everyday waste and even the rocks from your back yardPerfect for the growing trend of eco art materials and learning how to make paint to add greater narrative, purpose and meaning to your artworkWelcome to the ancient and modern world of art and painting media.

The most comprehensive guide to traditional basketry and basket-making techniques, containing complete guidance for beginners while acting as an essential reference manual for more experienced basket makers.Originally published in 1991, this edition from 1999 is widely recognised as the 'go-to' resource for traditional basketry techniques. It is recommended by the Basketry Association and by basketry tutors across the world. It features simple to complex projects, step-by-step instructions and illustrations, and a work program to guide progress, all provided by world-leading basketry experts Sally Goymer and Sue Gabriel.Basketry is one of the world's oldest rural crafts, predating pottery, and uses natural indigenous materials that require little processing and preparation. Basketry and willow weaving are seeing a renaissance in interest, and this book is a practical guide to the techniques, methods, and design of basketry for existing and aspiring basket makers. Baskets can be used as containers, for carrying and hauling, to sit on, hold food and even live in. Basketwork has wide uses, from fencing to clothing, furniture and even building homes.In addition to illustrated step by step techniques, the book includes an inventory of materials and specialist tools, design possibilities and practical advice. The book concentrates on working with willow, but the techniques can be applied to other mateirals.

Create beautiful dolls and accessories for winter using the latest Tilda fabrics. From pretty skating angels in warm fur coats to chalet girls with cosy knitted jumpers, these new Tilda designs celebrate the winter season in style. Transform pentagons and hexagons into mini patchwork balls and tablemats, or make a quilt or cushion with beautiful Tilda fabrics. Hanging santas, paper angels and Christmas stockings are perfect festive decorations for your home, and there are adorable polar bears to delight the little ones!

Following a Crochet Along style project is an incredibly popular way for home crafters to create projects in bite-size pieces and this stunning design from Jane Crowfoot not only offers crochet fans the chance to work through one of her famous and ground-breaking designs, but it will also help build skills and techniques while creating a truly beautiful heirloom crochet piece using luxurious yarns.Inspired by English Artists, Country Gardens and London’s Garden Squares and written in Jane’s distinctive style, with step-by-step images and explanations along the way, this design includes crochet flower motifs, butterflies, circles and striped stitch formations and Jane has included an array of techniques, including beading, textural layered pieces and bobbles.The book includes the story behind the inspiration for the project, many tips and techniques and links to helpful YouTube videos and technical downloads which offer online guidance through the techniques used in this project. This project is aimed at those with a good knowledge of crochet stitches and abbreviations and is written using UK terminology.The pattern is written for yarns from the Rowan range. If you want to use alternative yarns there is information at the front of the book on how to calculate alternative yarn amounts. The finished blanket measures approximately 124 cm (49in) square pre-blocked, and 127cm (50in) square blocked.

Step into an enchanting world where the charm of The Flower Fairies meets the nourishing power of nature.The Flower Fairies Herbal takes readers on a journey through meadows, woodlands and waysides to discover the plants and flowers brought to life by Cicely Mary Barker’s timeless illustrations. Within its pages are fifty recipes, ranging from delightful sweet treats and seasonal syrups to soothing balms and herbal tinctures — all inspired by or incorporating the plants associated with the Flower Fairies.This beautifully illustrated book brings the spirit of a country cottage into the kitchen. Whether you’re making lavender shortbread, red clover lip balm, or a rosehip cordial inspired by the Rosehip Fairy, you’ll find recipes that celebrate the beauty and bounty of the natural world. Each creation is accompanied by the original flower fairies illustrations, blending nostalgia with practical, nature-based knowledge.The book includes:50 inspiring recipes rooted in the flowers and plants depicted in Barker’s fairy illustrationsRemedies and beauty balms like marigold healing salve and dandelion honeyA celebration of seasonal foraging and slow living for the modern-day fairy enthusiastA perfect gift for lovers of folklore, botanical craft and magical cookeryA timeless hardback edition with original artwork, making it a collector’s treasureBring the Flower Fairies into your home and kitchen — and experience a little magic in every jar, bottle and bake.FLOWER FAIRIES™ Frederick Warne &Co. All rights reserved. Copyright © The Estate of Cicely Mary Barker, 2026. All rights reserved. Licensed by Frederick Warne & Co.

The exquisite Alice's Wonderland Quilt combines a variety of quilting techniques in one stunning sampler quilt, featuring 100 blocks. Using a variety of machine and hand-sewing techniques, this quilt will improve your sewing skills and be enjoyed as an heirloom piece for years to come. Gorgeous patchwork designs such as square-in-a-square, checkerboard, log cabin and Ohio Star combine with beautiful English paper-pieced blocks and raw edge appliqué animals, flowers, butterflies, hearts and stars.Starting with simple patchwork techniques and building from there, you will learn one or two basic techniques across ten different blocks, each one creating completely different patterns simply by using new arrangements and placements. Full-size EPP and appliqué templates, including Alice's unique hand-drawn designs, are provided. Each block forms a 6-inch square which then joins together with the other blocks to make the finished quilt.After you have made the main blocks, the stunning colourful border of the quilt is added. It includes a double rainbow border, an ivory border, and a further square-in-a-square rainbow border using prints from the main quilt to tie the whole colour scheme together.Featuring step-by-step illustrations for all the techniques and full-size templates, this stunning sampler quilt will build your skills and leave you with a treasured heirloom to pass on for generations.

Discover the majesty of the birthstones and dive deep into the history of birthstone jewelery!In Birthstone Stories, explore the meanings and the mineral make up of the gemstones associated with each calendar month. Filled with fascinating details about the stones themselves and how they came to be attached to each birth month, learn everything you need to know about the birthstones, from their mineral composition to their most famous specimens.Beautifully illustrated and filled with fun facts, Birthstone Stories gives a wonderful overview of:How we came to give each month a “birthstone”.What each birthstone is believed to mean.The most historically significant pieces of jewelry the birthstones have been used in.Based on the popular social media series by goldsmith Melise Ozkardesler, Birthstone Stories reveals the secrets of the mysterious birthstones and gives new meaning to these beautiful crystals.

Recreate memories of the seaside with simple sewing, papercraft, crochet and knitting projects using beautiful Tilda fabrics, yarn and embellishments. Be inspired by life at the beach and in the ocean to make gifts, toys and pretty accessories for your home. From adorable whales and fishing girl dolls to hanging mobiles, appliqué blankets and summer scarves, the designs will take you on a journey of the perfect seaside holiday.

A stunning new collection of Tilda designs from talented designer Tone Finnanger. The perfect way to bring hygge to your home throughout the colder autumn and winter months, Homemade and Happy is a gorgeous collection of inspirational home accessories including quilts, cushions and decorative items to make Christmas even more special.Choose from a range of ornaments including gold-winged reindeer and sheep, round-eyed owls, plump pigs with flower appliqué detail, angels, stars and darling decorative cakes. The book also features pretty practical designs such as an irresistible patchwork quilt, classic pillow covers and a cup pin-cushion, all in Tone's unique range of fabulous fabrics. The projects are photographed in the author's own log cabin situated in the snowy mountains of Norway, and capture Tone's unique and distinctive style. The Tilda brand is renowned worldwide and sales of the series now has combined sales of over 1 million copies worldwide. It is now well known for its whimsical, comical and naive characters in the form of animals and dolls that is popular with crafters of all ages and abilities. Tone has written several books including Sew Pretty Homestyle, Sew Sunny Homestyle, Crafting Tilda's Friends, Tilda's Christmas Ideas, Tilda's Summer Ideas, Tilda's Studio and Tilda's Seaside Ideas. She lives in Norway.

This is the ultimate cat lover's collection of knitting patterns for garments and accessories. Knitters and cats lovers will love this collection of 16 quirky designs, all based around the theme of cats. It includes four garments graded for 16 different sizes, as well as cat-themed accessories including a wrap, shawl, scarf, cowl, capelet, mittens and hats. Knitters can choose from more advanced patterns throughout the book or more beginner patterns using lighter weight yarn. The patterns are divided up into four chapters, each with a different style of cat-themed design similar to Marna's Sinister Catdigan pattern.

Does woodworking intimidate you? It’s okay if it does, you’re not alone. But the world of woodworking has been waiting for you, and this book is ready to welcome you in with open arms.It’s time to let go of the fear, cut through the jargon, and start making things. Written by a self-taught female woodworker, and aimed at absolute beginners, you’ll find all the skills and encouragement you need within these pages. From learning about tools and techniques to tips and tricks, along with detailed step-by-step projects, this book is bursting with all the knowledge you need to begin your woodworking journey.In this book you’ll learn:All about power tools and hand tools, how to use them and which ones you actually need.How and where to buy wood and the essentials of cutting, sanding and joining.Everything you need to know about staining, painting and protecting wood.How to install hardware for hanging projects on the wall.How to cut circles and shapes to add a new dimension to your projects.Tips on how to create your own workshop in a small space, including dust management.The design process and how to discover your inner creative.How to make 20 projects step-by-step, as well as suggestions on how to adapt the projects to create your own unique designs.But this is more than just a manual - it’s an invitation to tap into your creativity, explore new possibilities and discover the joy of bringing something to life with your hands. Whether you’re here to learn the basics, or dreaming of something more ambitious, this book provides you with the skills and encouragement you need to thrive. With this trusty book by your side, you’ll gain the skills, confidence and expertise you need to explore new possibilities, express your individual style, and become the woodworker of your dreams.Buy this book today to start fearing less and making more!

Inspired by the exquisite hand embroidery and tapestry designs of May Morris of the Arts and Crafts Movement, The Fruit Garden Blanket project is a must make for any serious crocheter.Designed by Jane Crowfoot and first released in a crochet along style, this project took the world by storm with crocheters across the globe coming together to create their own heirloom pieces, whilst learning new techniques and stitch combinations along the way.Choose from four fabulous colourways of the project, with all the patterns and charts needed to complete the blanket. Includes step-by-step images throughout.

Learn how to master hundreds of knotting and braiding techniques to create stunning jewellery and accessories. Written by renowned jewellery crafter and first Ambassador for Swarovski Elements, Dorothy Wood, The Knotting & Braiding Bible is the essential guide to knotting and braiding techniques for jewellery craft. The book covers kumihimo (braiding), plaiting, knotting (including macramé) and fusion, with techniques for adding beads, using different cords/wire and attaching findings. All the instructions have step by step photography to make them suitable for beginners. Choose from a selection of contemporary jewellery, accessories and home décor projects to create beautiful gifts and home decorations.

This colourful collection of summer craft projects is bursting with pretty accessories and unique gift ideas from Tilda craft designer and bestselling author Tone Finnanger.Choose from a selection of Tilda sewing and papercraft projects with something to suit everyone. Clear instructions and full-size templates make each project quick and easy to achieve.Create adorable Tilda angels, give them personality with facial details and then create dresses, dungarees and accessories from your favourite fabrics. Helpful instructions guide you through making toys, from tracing and cutting to stuffing and sewing. Make traditional Dala Horses for the kids to play with or cute fabric radishes for the kitchen, hang hearts embellished with ribbon trims from the mantelpiece and sew garlands to decorate windows all around the house.Beautiful cushions and bags make ideal gifts, but they’re also perfect for keeping to yourself! Create your own notebooks and bookmarks or decorate items with decoupage for quick and easy presents. You can even create co-ordinating cards to match your gifts.

An indispensable guide to beads and beading techniques, presenting essential beading know-how together with a wide range of inspirational projects, tips and ideas.Beads are the oldest and most widespread art form, having been used in virtually every culture since ancient times. Over the years new materials and methods of making beads have been introduced and now bead workers have a vast array of stunning beads to work with. Beading has also developed over the years and, even though many traditional techniques are still popular, the craft is constantly evolving. With so many techniques, and such a vast array of beads and materials available for the contemporary beader, there is definitely a need for a comprehensive guide. The Beading Bible is just that - an encyclopaedia of beads and beading techniques that aims to educate and inspire anyone who loves working with beads.The Beading Bible begins by looking at beads themselves; how to choose beads from metal, modelled, gemstone, seed beads and cylinder beads to hex beads, crystals, glass and bugle beads. There are handy tables to help you to understand how beads are measured and bead quantities, as well as advice on choosing bead colours. You are then guided through the basic to more specialist tools and equipment that you will need in beadwork. You will find each beading technique explained in detail throughout the chapters. However, the book begins by giving you the basic knowledge of essential techniques, such as working from a chart and knotting.The book is divided into eight chapters that cover all the traditional techniques: bead loom weaving, off loom bead stitches, ropes and cords, fringing, netting and tassels, threading and stringing, wire work and jewellery techniques, bead embroidery and even knitting and crochet with beads. Within each chapter you are guided through the basic skills, tools and materials, before tackling more advanced techniques. Inspiration pages will give you interesting ideas using the different techniques, and there are over 30 fabulous projects, ranging from beautiful bags and jewellery to stylish scarves and accessories - perfect excuses for trying out your new skills!Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, clear diagrams and stunning photography combine to create the must-have resource for beaders of all abilities.

Learn how to do the big stitch technique of sashiko with these 8 simple sashiko sewing projects.Traditional Japanese sewing technique, sashiko, is currently a major sewing trend in craft, interiors and fashion. Big stitches are used to create stunning, geometric patterns and texture to make home wares with a stylish, Japanese minimalist look.This collection, featuring content previously published in The Ultimate Sashiko Sourcebook and Japanese Sashiko Inspirations, includes eight patterns for home decor so you can try this traditional technique for yourself.Choose from eight simple projects including coasters, cushions, wall hangings, bag and greetings cards.

Discover the rich heritage and incredible diversity of British sheep breeds in this celebration of one of nature's most versatile fibres.The UK has more ancient breeds than any other country and the rich diversity of breeds and the unique characteristics of British wool are valued worldwide. Perfect for knitters, spinners, weavers, and yarn lovers, this is a guide to the pure breeds of sheep found in the UK, exploring their history, habitat, appearance and, of course, their fleece and the resulting yarn.Inside, you’ll find:A guide to 30 of the most ‘knittable’ pure British sheep breeds—their history, characteristics, and the unique properties of their fleece.10 exclusive knitting patterns designed by Justine Lee, featuring the softest, most beautiful yarns from diverse sheep breeds.Stunning black-and-white photography capturing the beauty and characteristics of these wonderful animals, beloved by fibre enthusiasts worldwide.Whether you're seeking the perfect yarn or exploring the legacy of sheep farming, The Wonder of Wool is your ultimate guide to celebrating the fibre that connects us all.

Join knitting expert Patty Lyons on a journey to become a better knitter with her latest workbook, designed as the essential companion to her bestselling book Patty Lyons' Knitting Bag of Tricks.In this hands-on workbook, Patty Lyons brings her classroom experience straight into your home with exercises, designed to illustrate the lessons and techniques she explores in her book of knitting tricks and hacks.The workbook features all-new hands-on exercises to work along with the tricks taught in Patty Lyons' Knitting Bag of Tricks. Patty recommends having the original book handy to review before you dive into the lessons and exercises in the Workbook.So, if you’re a tactile learner or you want to get the most out of Knitting Bag of Tricks, you’ll want to pick up this practical workbook and use it as you read along with the book.With step-by-step instructions, this workbook guides you through knitting swatches that help you practice the techniques Patty teaches, get to know your own knitting, and understand the ‘why’ as well as the ‘how.’ Patty's clear instructions guide you through each exercise, making it feel like she's right there with you.Plus there is lots of space for note-taking, adding your own samples, and developing your ability to ‘read’ your knitting. In addition, there are fun ways to chart your knitting journey and the progress you are making with stickers and other interactive features. Fill this workbook with your ‘swatchservations’ as you observe your knitting improve!Use this workbook as a catalyst to become a more confident knitter! Set goals, identify challenges, and choose projects that help you stretch your skills. With space to track an entire year’s worth of projects focused on learning, this workbook is more than an expansion of Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks, it’s a sidekick to your growth as a knitter. You can also find supporting video with additional content that can be accessed via a QR code within the book.Ready to enhance your knitting skills? Let Patty Lyons' workbook be your guide.

Step into the tiny world of modern miniatures with this collection of tutorials for 50 modern dollhouse furnishing makes.Create your fantasy interior on a tiny scale with these step-by-step instructions for contemporary dollhouse projects including the most exciting contemporary designs for furniture and soft furnishings. With this practical guide to miniatures you can let your imagination run wild and create your dream home without the constraints of location or budget!There are techniques for 50 projects to create beautiful, modern rooms at the miniature scale of 1:12, which is suitable for dollhouses and room boxes. The projects can be mix and matched to create endless interior variations.Designer and author, Chelsea Andersson, has designed an aspirational collection of furniture for the contemporary home for you to create in miniature. Learn how to make iconic pieces like the kidney shaped coffee table, a mid-century inspired lamp and a classic accent chair to create your own tiny interiors world.The projects are made using a variety of inexpensive and easily accessible materials including wood, fabric and paper. Author and miniaturist, Chelsea, walks you through the steps for each one so you can see how they are constructed and finished.There are detailed step-by-step instructions, photographs and artworks for all of the projects. As well as explaining how to construct the items there is advice for how to get a really polished finish on the projects in order to create the illusion of an actual interior.The projects include different kinds of seating, tables, bed shelving, flooring and wall decoration, as well as soft furnishings such as wall hangings, rugs and baskets, throws and cushions to bring the space to life.The projects are divided up into chapters based on different rooms: living room; bedroom; dining room; kitchen; bathroom and patio. All of the projects can be mixed and matched to create your own unique interiors.

Leonardo Da Vinci is considered to be one of the greatest painters of all time and perhaps the most diversely talented person ever to have lived, responsible for the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, The Madonna of the Carnation and Vitruvian Man. Leonardo was an Italian Renaissance polymath: painter, sculptor, architect, musician, scientist, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, geologist, cartographer, botanist, and writer, and this captivating book provides the reader with a unique insight into the life and work of one of history's most intriguing figures. All of Leonardo Da Vinci's work is presented in this compact volume - from his paintings and frescos, to detailed reproductions of his remarkable encrypted notebooks. As well as featuring each individual artwork, sections of each are shown in isolation to reveal incredible details - for example, the different levels of perspective between the background sections of the Mona Lisa, and the disembodied hand in The Last Supper. 640 pages of colour artworks and photographs of Da Vinci's original notebooks, accompanied by fascinating biographical and historical details are here.

Sew a gorgeous handmade gift with over 25 simple patchwork, applique and embroidery patterns for you to make at home. Patchwork isn't just about making quilts; it's about creating smaller projects too, and sewing something pretty to treasure! Pretty Patchwork Gifts has a tempting range of quick-to-stitch patchwork patterns to get you started; from appliqué cushion designs and hand-pieced doll's quilts, to pretty birdhouses, brooches, boxes and even soft toy rabbits in pretty patchwork dresses. Each chapter features easy-to-follow instructions, diagrams and templates, with gorgeous full-colour photography. Use these designs as a starting point to inspire your own creativity, and make pretty patchwork gifts for friends and family, for every occasion!

This title offers a fascinating 'inside-out' view of how the horse uses its body, that is presented in a graphic, easy-to-follow way to aid you in improving all aspects of riding and training. Discover the true effect of riding and training on each part of the horse by seeing the skeleton and major muscles painted on the outside. It includes practical exercises that demonstrate how to improve movement, build the right muscles and increase suppleness in the horse. It includes step-by-step guidance on the correct way to warm-up your horse and stretching routines to help guard against injury. Unlike other books on biomechanics and anatomy "How Your Horse Moves" is truly applied.

This is truly an essential resource for all sewists! Set to be the new The Art of Manipulating Fabric, Ruth Singer offers a modern interpretation of fabric manipulation in this book, with hundreds of full colour diagrams. Discover and explore 150 creative sewing techniques including pleating, folding, gathering, smocking, quilting, trapunto and applique. Ruth explains her innovative variations of these traditional fabric manipulation techniques and offers inspirational project ideas demonstrating practical applications to create accessories and home decor. Photographs and illustrations are included to support the step-by-step instruction for each technique and all of the techniques can be done by hand or with a domestic sewing machine without the need for specialist equipment.

A gorgeous collection of fresh, Spring-themed sewing projects using the latest Tilda fabrics and embellishments. You can choose from a stunning variety of sewing and papercraft designs, including bags, soft toys, fabric boxes and unique decorations. The colour palette used includes shades of red, pink, white, pale green, azure blue and cyan. The projects are accompanied by clear instructions, gorgeous photographs and colour illustrations.

The Knitter's BibleLearn how to knit with this essential handbook for creative knitters, from bestselling author Claire Crompton.Whether you're an experienced knitter or a complete beginner The Knitter's Bible contains everything you need to know about knitting. With full easy-to-follow instructions for all of the knitting basics, from knit and purl stitch to casting on and binding (casting) off, as well as more advanced techniques, such as Fair Isle knitting, cables and lace knitting, and circular knitting. You will also learn how to read knitting patterns and how to adapt garment patterns for your own designs. The extensive stitch library section provides instructions for over 100 different knitting stitches and at the back of the book you will find 25 step-by-step knitting patterns for gorgeous creative projects.Inside The Knitter's Bible:Getting Started - go back to basics with an overview of the yarns and equipment you will need, and then learn basic knitting techniques with easy step-by-step instruction, including knit and purl stitch, casting on and binding (casting) off, and how to read knitting patterns.Creative Options - this chapter expands on the basics with more advance, creative knitting techniques, such as Fair Isle knitting, lace and cable knitting, and circular knitting.Exploring Choices - learn how to embellish your knitting projects with beads, smocking, tassels and cords, and knitted flowers. You will also learn about shaped knitting techniques, medallion knitting, entrelac and mitred squares.Stitch Library - a comprehensive library of over 100 different knitting stitches, split into seven sections: knit and purl stitches; gansey patterns; texture stitches; rib stitches; cable stitches; lace stitches; and edgings. KnittingProjects - full instructions and knitting patterns for creative projects, from scarves and mittens, to throws, cushions and knitted garments.

15 animal themed party cakes that will appeal to adults and children alike, from favourite pets such as the cat and dog to an elephant, fish and prickly hedgehog. Lindy Smith's popular style uses sugarpaste, buttercream (fondant) and clever techniques to create the colours, textures, patterns and shapes that make animal cakes so much fun. Variation design ideas, quick-and-clever cupcakes and delicious cookies continue the theme for a choice of party food. Over 200 easy-to-follow, step-by-step photographs and instructions, plus clear carving templates, ensure animal cakes to make any party a roaring success!

This best-selling title is a handy-format, fully comprehensive guide to the rulers of the British nations and their chequered histories, from pre-Roman times to the present day. From King Kenneth I and Henry VIII through to Princess Diana, the Queen Mother and Queen Elizabeth II, Kings and Queens: The Concise Guide reveals the lives and personalities of each monarch - the good, bad, lazy, greedy, downright wicked, sometimes mad and occasionally brilliant - and examines the ways in which they have shaped history. Including family trees, key facts and further details, as well as timelines to help place each monarch in their historical context, the book covers the major social, political and commercial events of each monarch's reign.The author also provides additional information on the spirit, traditions and innovations of the nation at the time, including politics, arts, architecture and fashions. It is a magnificent visual feast in an appealing format, which guarantees to bring history alive for readers of all ages, through exciting narrative, famous paintings and rare archive photographs.