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Embroider all your favourite characters from Tove Jansson's beloved Moominvalley, and embellish your designs with bonus motifs and a ready-to-use alphabet!10 gorgeous projects to stitch, for beginner embroiderers and up, with complete instructions, a stitch library and full-size templates.There is a whole host of characters to embroider, from the kind and curious Moomintroll, the vain but quick-thinking Snorkmaiden and gentle Moominmamma to their beloved friends and the creatures they meet along the way, including fierce Little My, wise Snufkin, the mysterious Hattifatteners and more.Inside you’ll find...10 gorgeous Moomin-inspired embroidery projects for beginner embroiderers upwards.Clear thread-colour key, order-of work photographs and step-by-step instructions for every project.To scale embroidery outlines to transfer for each project, plus full guidance on different transfer methods to suit your way of working.An invaluable library of key stitches at the beginning of the book for easy referencing and inspiration.BONUS embroidery outlines to transfer, from extra characters and embellishments to a cursive alphabet.Whether you’d love to create wall-art for your home, or adorn accessories and wearables, you can ensure the Moomins are with you wherever you are.

Aimed at all painters, from beginners to the more experienced, this book is packed with expert advice on all aspects of acrylic painting: what to do, and what not to do. Learn how to choose and mix colours, and create a multitude of effects using only one set of tubes. Discover how to make your own equipment, set up a "studio" space, and use household materials to save money.Beginners can follow processes stage-by-stage, while more experienced artists can dip in and out for help with specific problems. A unique section on how to develop your art and take it to a wider public is full of professional secrets which can bring you success much more quickly. “Try it” and “Fix it” panels placed throughout the book suggest ways of practising and developing new skills, and avoiding or correcting common painting errors.

'Mia Hansson has spent nearly a decade making a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry [and] is releasing some of her designs so others can have a go.' – BBC NewsIn 2026, the UK welcomes the Bayeux Tapestry to British soil for the first time in 900 years, with a landmark exhibition at the British Museum. With Tapestry enthusiast and medieval‑art lover Mia Hansson as your guide, celebrate this extraordinary moment: colour your way through the story of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, and bring some of the world’s most iconic embroidery to life in your own creative style.Bring the Bayeux Tapestry to life by colouring 60 historic scenes featuring bishops, knights, ships, shields, horses and, of course, King Harold with the fateful arrow in his eye.Discover clear, hand-drawn linework designed specifically for artists of all ages and skill levels - whether you're studying the Bayeux Tapestry in school, or are simply fascinated by its historical significance.Choose from 60 full‑page illustrations: simply select your scene and start colouring, using pencils, pens or felt-tips. Each design offers a precise, authentic outline to help you focus on creativity, mindfulness and the magic of medieval art.The colouring designs are presented chronologically, and with reference to their placement on the Tapestry, so you can easily navigate this extraordinary work of art and understand the historical drama as it unfolds.Stunning line art, clear layouts and a detailed contents page prompts make this historical and artistic masterpiece accessible - whether you want to recreate the vivid energy of the battlefield, the elegance of courtly scenes, or the charm of the mythical creatures that appear throughout its borders.About the author: In 2016, Mia Hansson began embroidering a full‑scale replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, using fabrics and threads as close as possible to those used in the original work. She is due to finish this remarkable achievement in time for the 1,000th anniversary of William the Conqueror’s birth in 2027. The Bayeux Tapestry spans almost 70 metres (77 yards) and features over 1,500 designs. Her first book with Search Press, Embroider the Bayeux Tapestry, is due to publish in June 2026.

Over 200 essential embroidery stitches in a new and up-to-date edition of the original and immensely successful stitch bible, by best-selling author and needlework designer Betty Barnden.'This is one of my absolute favorite stitch dictionaries. It’s really good! I love the layout of the book and the instructions. I like the clarity of the diagrams, I like the samples of the stitches (...) it’s just a great stitch dictionary to have on your shelf!' Mary Corbet, needlenthread.comTrends in embroidery styles come and go, but the basic stitches and techniques remain the same. In this essential directory, hand sewers will have a collection of over 200 stitches at their fingertips – from basic chain worked into fabric through to Florentine work on a canvas. Each one is explained with written step-by-step instructions and how-to techniques to get you started, and are accompanied by clear artwork and a photo of the finished stitch.Follow the diagrams and instructions in this beautifully illustrated and jam-packed book to discover the wonderful variety of effects that can be created with just a needle and thread, and discover – or rediscover – the sensuous, tactile, wearable art of embroidery.

Learn how to create delicate, see-through flowers in watercolour with the help of immensely popular artist, pattern designer and YouTuber, Olga Koelsch.In her debut book, Olga gently guides beginners and experienced artists alike through the process of painting flowers, combining the accuracy of botanical illustration with the expression and freedom of modern watercolour. Beginning with a concise introduction to the key things you'll need to get started, as well as Olga's most-used watercolour methods, straight away you can start to paint 6 different stunning plant projects – magnolia, eucalyptus, bellflower, rose, peony and iris. Every project has clear photography and step-by-step instructions, as well as an outline at the back of the book that can be traced, if you need a little help when beginning your painting. If you need inspiration for what to do with your finished artwork, Olga has shared a stunning collection of her own examples that showcase the flowers beautifully – from cards and wall art to fabrics that would make a beautiful robe for a loved one.Whether you're looking to start painting flowers with a nod to botanical illustration, or to learn how to create beautiful flowers to adorn personal items, you'll be struck by the timeless and unique artwork that fills How to Paint Transparent Watercolour Flowers.

Reknowned for her techniques for painting light on water, Jenny Aitken delivers perfect guidance to the intermediate artist on how to paint light in plein air and much more.Learn how to successfully paint scenes that that capture magical effects of light from behind the subject. Good contre-jour – painting into the light – artworks cause the viewer to squint, with light seeming to glow from the canvas. They can look like a kind of magic, with their hazy light and colour singing out. This book demystifies lighting in oils, and provides a practical guide to the process, showing exactly how to create the illusion.Inside, you'll find a wealth of information on simplification, tonal control, capturing accurate colour, working both indoors and outdoors, painting landscapes and still life, creating atmospheric depth, and even mastering the illusion of space. Through detailed step-by-step demonstrations and beautifully illustrated techniques, Jenny Aitken reveals how to infuse every painting with vibrant, lifelike light. A section on troubleshooting tricky paintings will show the reader every painting is salvageable, but with an understanding of light and colour, it’s much more likely that they’ll find success the first time round.

Embark on a knitting journey through the captivating landscapes of Shetland, the Hebrides, Gotland and Blidö with best-selling author and knitwear designer Erika Åberg (@wynja).  This stunning book features 20 timeless patterns inspired by the sea, wind and spirit of each island, perfect for knitters seeking one-of-a-kind garments infused with a touch of coastal magic.From the outer Hebrides, whose 'poetry, history and stories are visible in the landscape', to Shetland, 'an island world of colours, light and patterns', discover the joy of creating unique pieces that reflect the essence of these captivating destinations. Each chapter begins with an evocative and personal introduction to one of the islands, exploring its history and culture. This is followed by five stunning knitting patterns per chapter.Each of the 20 exquisite hand-knitting patterns, from cozy sweaters and warm socks to stylish shawls, contains detailed pattern instructions and easy-to-follow colour charts.The essential techniques section at the start covers all the key knitting information you need, including tips on increasing and decreasing, working with more than one yarn colour and grafting. For knitters who are interested in the provenance and heritage of the sheep and wool the designs are knitted with, the book also contains a fascinating insight into the islands' native breeds, desirable properties of wool and an insight into the tradition of knitting in island life.A treat for knitters and armchair travellers alike, Island Knitting invites you to explore the rugged beauty of these four unique islands: the Scottish islands of Shetland and the Hebrides, and the Swedish islands of Gotland and Blidö. Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of each location as you learn to knit 20 beautiful garments inspired by the colours and culture of each island.Originally published in Swedish in 2022.

Create and customize your own stylish capsule wardrobe... without using dressmaking patterns! Use simple, beginner-friendly techniques to sew 10 stylish, versatile and contemporary garments with Kimberley Hind (@whatkimberleymakes). Are dressmaking patterns essential for creating stylish and flattering clothes? No!Can you create a range of impressive garments using just your own measurements and some simple techniques? Yes! Popular designer and dressmaker Kimberley Hind takes you through everything you need to know to get started. Whether that's choosing the right fabrics for the look and finish you want, to accurately taking your body measurements so that your clothes fit in just the right way, Kimberley's friendly and no-nonsense attitude will get you started in no time... and with no need for dressmaking patterns! Everything is shown visually: from seaming, hemming, shirring, adding ruffles and finishing your garments.All 10 beginner-friendly projects are visually explained step by step: choose from skirts, trousers, tops, dresses, shorts and a jacket.The projects are looser fitting to suit any body shape, and can be customized for your preferred style: adapt the sleeves, straps, cuffs and hem length as you want.The projects aim for minimal waste, with advice and tips on using leftover fabric scraps to make accessories.

Elevate your botanical art with this comprehensive and visually-breathtaking guide by respected artist Billy Showell. Here, Billy reveals the secrets behind her incredibly lifelike portraits of flowers, fruit, and vegetables.Whether you are an aspiring illustrator or an experienced painter, this book serves as both an indispensable technical manual and a stunning gallery of inspiration.Learn how to combine traditional botanical accuracy with a fresh, playful, and modern aesthetic;Master the fine art of re-creating intricate surface details, from the velvet of a petal to the waxy sheen of fruit;Dive into detailed sections on observing and mixing colours to achieve perfect, vibrant hues every time;Gain confidence in your observational skills with Billy’s expert guidance on drawing and painting directly from live specimens;Clear how-to sections cover everything from initial sketches to the final delicate brushstrokes.This guide simplifies complex subjects through step-by-step studies and close-up photography. You’ll learn the secrets of modern composition and fine-detail techniques, providing everything you need to create stunning, professional-grade botanical portraits.

The essential beginner's guide to modern crewel embroidery, with 8 simple projects and over 40 stitches, from best-selling author Tatiana Popova.This is a fully illustrated, must-have guide, featuring an inspiring combination of cotton threads, vibrant colours and contemporary floral designs.Popular crewelwork designer Tatiana Popova has taught thousands of beginners how to embroider and has distilled her years of experience into this inspiring book. The 8 projects are carefully chosen to build up your confidence through practice; each will teach you new stitches, and will gradually develop your hand embroidery skills as you work through the book.This comprehensive beginner's guide contains:Guidance on everything you need to get started, from essential tools and materials and choosing your threads, to threading your needle, making your first stitches and fastening off;Clear step-by-step photographs and simple stitching instructions, which make this the perfect crewel embroidery manual, whether you are stitching for the first time or revisiting the basics;Full-size templates to help you accurately copy the designs, and get started quickly;8 stylish modern floral designs to embroider, each one teaching and consolidating new stitches. Choose from a stunning pattern of gum tree leaves, a majestic poppy, a carpet of snowdrops and more.Helpful friendly guidance, and a simple course-style progression that allows you to build up your skills as you work through the book.Create your own stunning colourful embroideries using simple crewelwork stitches, all worked in beautiful cotton embroidery threads for a wonderful contemporary finish.

Create bespoke garments that fit and flatter!Awarded 'Best Sewing Book' at the Creative Book Awards, 2024.In this comprehensive, informative book, Helen explains how to create beautiful, customized dresses for every shape and size. Choose the exact size that fits and flatters you from a bespoke sizing chart that takes into account differences in body size across bust, waist and hips. Trace off your pattern pieces, then create a sample (toile) in calico which you can then adapt to create the dress of your dreams, in your own choice of fabulous fabric. There are four style options each for sleeves and necklines, including a flared sleeve, a capped sleeve, a sweetheart neckline or a boatneck; and five skirt options, including a fitted pencil-style skirt, a zhuzhy circle skirt, and an A-line, with or without pleats. You can also choose to add a sweet, classic Peter Pan collar, or inseam pockets, to your garment. Alternatively, you can even create a skirt as a separate garment, simply by adding a waistband or facing.The language of sewing and dressmaking is demystified at the beginning of the book, as well as the equipment you need to get started.Nothing is left unexplained; and stunning images of the finished dresses, on a mannequin and on a model, are interspersed throughout the book to inspire your own finished pieces.Extra copies of the full-size pattern sheets/pattern templates exclusive to Dressmaking: The Easy Guide by Helen Rhiannon are available here.

Create 10 enchanting amigurumi characters, including Santa Claus and a sack full of gifts, playful elves, a festive Christmas train, plus angels, polar bears and snowmen!With a complete techniques guide, clear written patterns and helpful photos at every stage, this super-cute, beginner-friendly book makes it easy to crochet with confidence.New from popular designer Khuc Cay, whose distinctive style has earned her hundreds of thousands of fans worldwide, comes this heartwarming collection of festive friends! Meet Anna and her precious kitten Chi, full of excitement and ready to hang up their stockings; Alex, the gingerbread man, a champion gift-wrapper; and Leon, the polar bear who helps deliver letters to Santa Claus – all ready to come to life on your crochet hook.Perfect even for complete beginners, the book contains:a complete crochet introduction with photographed step-by-step instructions for every technique needed.clear written patterns, packed with work-in-progress photographs so that you can easily check your progress as you crochet.10 adorable amigurumi projects, all of which make perfect stash-busters and use only small amounts of yarn.Whether you’re an experienced maker or just beginning your crochet journey, this magical collection is perfect for crafting a host of festive friends that will delight any child, young or old, and will become part of your family’s festive traditions year after year.This is a translation from French by popular amigurumi author Khuc Cay (@lespetitesmainsdekhuccay).

Learn to use the cyanotype process on fabric, note cards, paper and so much more!Create a beautiful blue coloured world using this amazing printing process with detailed instruction from popular crafter Kim Tillyer.Crafters will learn how to apply a special light-sensitive solution to various surfaces and witness the transformative effect of sunlight or UV light, as their creations magically turn into vibrant blue works of art. What makes cyanotype particularly appealing is its versatility, as it provides a fun, accessible, and affordable means to transform ordinary objects into extraordinary blue-hued keepsakes.Whether you are a budding artist in search of a new creative outlet or an individual seeking to infuse your gifts with a mesmerizing blue hue, Beginner's Guide to Cyanotype will serve as your ultimate beginner-friendly guide. You are guided on how to use cyanotype printing on a variety of surfaces and unlock the potential of this enchanting artistic process. With Kim Tillyer's expert instruction and inspiration, you will embark on a journey of artistic exploration, creating unique and captivating cyanotype masterpieces that reflect your individual style and vision.

Create characterful, eye-catching portraits using this inspiring, in-depth guide from world-renowned master artist Giovanni Civardi.Explore the anatomy that underpins human morphology, discover practical techniques for capturing form, movement, light and character, and study drawings from Civardi's own inspiring sketchbooks.This book is essential for anyone wishing to learn or improve on their drawing skills. Starting with the necessary tools and materials, move on to a fundamental exploration of human anatomy and delve into practical considerations such as the technical intricacies of light and shade. With skills and knowledge built up over a career of medical study and artistic exploration, Civardi gives expert guidance on drawing stunning, characterful portraits, from newborns and infants to the elderly, focusing on the facial features individually, as well as the body as a whole.In this comprehensive guide you will learn how to:draw facial features for a range of ages and genders;compose a successful portrait;work with light and shade;work in different mediums;understand the anatomy and morphology of both adults and children; draw portraits using grids;capture character and expression.Civardi’s technical advice and tips, alongside his own stunning drawings, accrued throughout an illustrious career, make this a crucial resource for any artist.Praise for previous series title, Drawing: A Complete Guide: 'Full of expert advice and practical tips, this is a brilliant book that covers all of the essentials for drawing different subjects.' - Waterstones PiccadillyThis comprehensive guide brings together six books from Search Press’s successful series: The Art of Drawing: Drawing Portraits (2002)The Art of Drawing: Sketching People (2011)The Art of Drawing: Heads and Faces (2012)The Art of Drawing: Portraits of Babies and Children (2017)Drawing Using Grids: Portraits with Character (2018)Drawing Using Grids: Portraits of Babies and Children (2018)The constituent books have been translated from Italian.

Dive into award-winning artist Jean Haines’ exciting world of watercolour, full of vibrant colour, expressive mark-making and unbridled creative joy.“This is a book that knows exactly what it's about by an artist who is an absolute master of her medium and technique. If you love loose, impressionistic watercolour this is an absolute treat.” – The ArtistIf you're looking to elevate your watercolour paintings with life, colour and meaning, then look no further. With an infectious writing style that exudes her passion and enthusiasm, Jean guides you through a captivating journey of watercolour painting in this beautiful, practical book. Discover:Dozens of fascinating techniques to learn, from salt scattering and paint splattering to using different media to achieve awe-inspiring textures.11 stunning demonstrations to follow stage by stage, to put your new skills into practice, including flowers and animals as well as people and places.A treasure trove of easy-to-follow, inspiring exercises and tips to build your confidence, encourage your creativity and push you to paint truly innovative work.Glimpses of Jean's working process along with her stories of personal growth, all influenced by the countries and cities she's lived in and the people she's met during her life.Incredible examples of Jean’s work throughout, that will inspire and encourage both novices and experienced artists to develop their own style of working.Following the global success of the hardback edition of World of Watercolour, first published in 2015, comes this stunning paperback edition – the ultimate guide to Jean’s inimitable style.

Celebrate Miffy’s 70th anniversary with the official Miffy crochet book! Crochet 16 projects from the charming world of Miffy, created by the beloved Dutch designer Dick Bruna: make your own Miffy bunny toy, plus blankets and cushions to keep or to gift, featuring the iconic likenesses of Miffy and her friends!Inspired by, and featuring, Dick Bruna's timeless illustrations, popular designer Kimberley Zwaans has created 16 crochet patterns celebrating Miffy and her friends, along with some fun Miffy-themed accessories. This beginner-friendly book features step-by-step illustrations of all the key stitches needed.Using just 7 shades of yarn, crochet 16 snuggly projects, including super-soft amigurumi toys of Miffy and her friends; create a Miffy-themed birthday party with a cake, placemats, bunting and a crown for the birthday child; or go Miffy-mad and create gorgeous home items including a hanging mobile with moon and stars, a large blanket and motif pillow.There are small and large projects to choose from, ranging from simple designs to ones that offer more challenge. This is a translation of the best-selling title from Dutch author Kimberley Zwaans, with crochet projects based on the work of Dick Bruna.

Embark on a fascinating, hands-on journey through the unique history, style and ingenuity of American Depression-era quilting, and create 10 stunning 1930s-style quilts of your own.In this unique and beautiful book from quilt extraordinaire Carolyn Forster, explore and celebrate the incredible designs created by America's quiltmakers during the 1930s by making 10 quilts of your own, all inspired by the period's techniques, motifs and colourways. Nearly one hundred years on, their ingenuity still contains inspiration for quilters around the world. A small historical chapter sets the scene, describing the fascinating and tumultuous backdrop of the quilts and their makers. There are 10 themed quilts to sew, each inspired by a different key feature of 1930s quilting – from using repurposed feedsacks and upcycled linens to key piecing and quilting styles, plus the use of redwork embroidery.Every quilt project includes a detailed requirements list, clear step-by-step instructions with construction diagrams, and beautiful photographs of the finished quilt. Full-size templates are included.For readers needing a refresher, a detailed techniques section on making quilts is given at the back of the book.A foreword by the curator of the American Museum & Gardens in Bath in the UK, Kate Hebert, provides a captivating overview of the period and book.Photographs of beautiful 1930s quilts from the museum's collection offer mouth-watering examples of what the makers before us have achieved.This is a one-of-kind book that gives you the opportunity to unearth and recreate the incredible workmanship of America's quilters who, in spite of economic and political instability, created stunning quilts that are brimming with colour, ingenuity and creativity.

Bring a whole family of sweet crochet characters to life with best-selling crochet author and designer, Lulu Compotine (@luciennecompotine)!Crochet 8 new customizable characters and their accessories in the much anticipated follow-up to the best-selling Lulu’s Crochet Dolls!It’s little Susan’s birthday, and her family is throwing her a party: her mother, Clementine, father Anthony, older sister Lola and twin siblings Charlie and Penny, and not forgetting her grandparents, Jean and Lucie… Crochet this gorgeous little family, plus make all the accessories they need to ensure that Susan's birthday is a big success, including balloons, cake, presents and a camera!Within these pages you will find:All the crochet techniques and embroidery stitches you need to create the dolls, with easy-to-follow step-by-step diagrams.Key, practical advice for customising the dolls, from making colour choices to creating the facial features, adjusting the clothing and making spectacles.Details of the tools and equipment needed.Work-in-progress step-by-step photos for each project, so that you can check your doll as you work; accompanied by the full written patterns and additional simple charted items.Each of the dolls measures between 15cm (6in) and 27cm (11in) high, and all can be created by a confident intermediate crocheter.In addition, delightful illustrations by Céline Bonnaud (@les_loulous_de_guibo) give Lulu’s Crochet Doll Family a beautiful vintage storybook feel.A translation of the original French edition by popular crochet author Lucienne Compotine.

Re-wild your art practice, by transforming foraged and found materials into vibrant, sustainable drawing media, from richly pigmented pastels and smoke-black charcoal to deep, lightfast inks.‘If you love culture, but know in your bones you are also part of nature, like me, you’ll want to make your art practice more ecologically sound and sustainable.’ - Caroline RossThis stunning, practical book, sequel to the best-selling Found and Ground, contains both ancient and modern techniques for ‘rewilding’ your art practice. With hands-on advice and simple, step-by-step instruction, artist and author Caroline Ross shows you how to create beautiful, useful art supplies from wild and ancient materials – whether those materials are foraged, natural, discarded or repurposed.Inside the book you’ll discover:Advice on how to forage safely and ethically, as well as tips on scavenging in the urban environment and rewilding your art practice gradually;Practical, step-by-step instructions for using lump media, preparing pigments, and creating hard and soft pastels;A complete guide to creating charcoal, from assessing different wood types, refining your sticks and then a guide to burning;A guide to creating tannin, iron gall and botanical inks, plus instructions for making your own quill pen and brush;Surfaces on which to work, from found paper, leather and bark, to making your own sewn sketchbook;A final section on more permanent and long-lasting materials, such as metalpoint.Expansive, inclusive and ethically-aware, Caroline illustrates the book with her own inspirational artwork alongside that of other artistic contributors from different cultures and different parts of the world, with their own distinctive materials, approaches and uses of the same core techniques.

Master the art of storytelling through stitch and create your own deeply personal embroidered treasures, with innovative multidisciplinary artist Aitor Saraiba.Using treasured fabrics and personal memories interwoven with embroidery, mending and natural dyeing, discover 12 contemporary projects designed to unlock your creativity.In this sumptuous, inspiring guide, Aitor Saraiba invites makers of all skill levels to transform fabrics and threads into deeply personal, meaningful objects. Drawing on his childhood in La Mancha, where sewing was a vital thread in the fabric of community life, Aitor combines the philosophy of zero waste with contemporary design.This book is a toolkit for self-expression, designed to help you slow down, look inwards and craft unique and deeply meaningful items. Discover:12 stunning creative textile art projects: follow step-by-step instructions to create scapulars, framed appliqué pieces, textile books and snippet rolls; for truly personal home décor, create warm, inviting pieces like mini throws, scatter cushions and a whimsical heart pincushion.Guidance on sustainable mending: embrace the beauty of repair. Learn the Japanese art of Boro to help you customize existing clothes, and turn ‘wear and tear’ into artistic expression.Natural dyeing made simple: a complete, approachable guide to creating your own dye palette using logwood, tea, onion and iron.Includes essential resources: featuring a curated guide to sewing materials and Aitor’s favourite stitches, plus full-scale templates.A stunning yet practical coffee-table book: the hardback format and sumptuous finish make this a perfect gift and a treasured collectible.Your complete textile art workbook: an all-in-one resource covering mending, natural dyeing and creative embroidery – the perfect guide for holistic crafting for sewists of all abilities.Embroider, Mend and Sew strips away the illusion of ‘perfect’ crafting, encouraging you to use whatever is at hand to create something beautiful and meaningful.This book is a translation from the best-selling Spanish title, Cose, zurce y borda by Aitor Saraiba.

Learn to draw the human form with this comprehensive figure drawing guide featuring technical advice, instruction for beginners, and helpful reference illustrations and diagrams.This extensive guide to figure drawing offers everything you need to know to get started, with in-depth studies of human anatomy by master artist Giovanni Civardi. Bringing together seven books from the successful Art of Drawing series, this compilation includes:Drawing TechniquesHeads and FacesSketching PeopleUnderstanding Human Form and StructureThe NudeDrawing Hands and FeetDrawing Clothing on Figures.Civardi's technical advice and practical tips, accompanied by his own outstanding drawings, make this essential drawing guide an invaluable resource for any portrait artist.

So you want to learn how to knit? About time! Enter your knitting era with self-taught knitwear designer Brenda Lam.From casting on to casting off, learn the fundamentals of knitting and then create 10 fun, chunky projects to wear with pride.Learning to knit can be daunting, especially if you don't have a friend or family member to show you the ropes... what you need is a seasoned knitter by your side. Enter popular designer Brenda Lam, who will show you everything you need to know from the complete basics onwards. Discover:Everything new knitters need to know, including yarns, tools, techniques and stitches;A Troubleshooting section, for when you're not quite sure where a stitch has gone wrong (we’ve all been there!);The basics on how to read a pattern, and a chapter on how to finish your work;10 colourful, chunky projects to test out your new skills, including some scrappy mittens or, if you’re feeling ambitious, a sweater vest.The chunky yarn used in the projects is ideal for beginners as it knits up quickly; large stitches allow you to see clearly how your stitches are formed... and to identify when you make the odd mistake! With its witty and welcoming tone, this book is perfect if you're looking to take your first step into knitting. Brenda's easy-to-understand tutorials are written in a light-hearted tone, sprinkled with humour, from sassy sidebars to awful jokes that’ll have you in stitches...

Turn simple shapes into stylish makes and crochet your own colourful collection of 15 granny-square garments and accessories!With 15 contemporary and fun designs to suit all shapes and sizes, My Granny Square Wardrobe is the ultimate guide to crocheting your own granny-square clothing, from expert crochet teacher Sam Sabido.From snuggly statement cardigans and jumpers to festival-worthy shorts, dungarees and a bag, each project features a different granny design, including traditional granny squares, granny stripes, hexies, solid granny squares and granny circles. Each project gives you clear guidance on sizing and helps you calculate the number of granny squares you need. There are clear, beginner-friendly instructions given with step-by-step photos, charts and written patterns, along with simple construction diagrams to help you piece together and finish your garments with ease.The book also includes:Helpful tips and tricks for creating and blocking your granny squares.Key information on sizing and fitting your garments.All specific techniques, shown step-by-step.Project variations to inspire you to adapt the projects to suit your own shape, size and favourite colours.With #grannysquare tagged in over 1.3 million posts on Instagram and the term 'granny square fashion' returning over 12.2 million online search results, this gorgeous trend is here and happening. So jump on board and you'll be on your way to creating your own gorgeous, colourful and contemporary wardrobe of granny-square garments and accessories in no time!

Unplug the screens and spark hours of creative fun! With best-selling artist Yishan Li, learning to draw has never been simpler, cuter, or more rewarding.Whether a complete beginner or a budding young artist, this jumbo collection guides kids (and adults!) step-by-step through 200 amazingly cute kawaii drawings. From adorable animals and super-sweet chibis to friendly fruits and vegetables, this book is bursting with character and charm.200 STEP-BY-STEP PROJECTS: A massive collection of cute kawaii characters, adorable animals, sweet chibis and friendly foods. UNBEATABLE VALUE AT RRP £12.99: Packed with 200 projects, this book offers incredible value for parents and gifters looking for quality and lasting entertainment.PERFECT FOR AGES 7+:This is the ultimate gift for creative kids, designed with easy-to-follow, 8-stage instructions that build confidence, focus and drawing skills without requiring adult help.BEST-SELLING AUTHOR: These artworks are created by professional manga artist and best-selling author Yishan Li, ensuring high-quality, authentic kawaii designs.THE PERFECT CREATIVE GIFT: Drawing is an ideal screen-free activity for birthdays, holidays, or rainy days. Great for independent learning at home or on the go!This book incorporates material from How to Draw: Cute Kawaii, How to Draw: Manga Animals, How to Draw: Manga Chibis and Draw 100 Manga.

This is origami at its most simple and elegant. With a special focus on photographic step-by-step instructions, this book makes it easy to create over 50 different paper projects, from sea lions to sailing boats.Detailed illustrations show exactly how and where to place your hands at every step and projects are given a difficulty rating for ease of reference. Simply follow the diagrams and watch origami creations of all kinds come to life at your fingertips.Brought to you from the Parisian boutique of Adeline Klam, this book is full of beautiful designs, fun toys, useful tips and paper surprises of every shape and size.

To celebrate The Bayeux Tapestry’s historic return to the UK in 2026 - its first trip to British soil in 900 years - this stunning hardback edition of embroidery expert Jan Messent's tour de force aims to shed light on the Tapestry’s creation.Journey through this colourful, hand-drawn account of the Anglo-Saxon artisans who created one of the world's most famous embroideries: the incomparable Bayeux Tapestry.“Everybody has heard of the Bayeux Tapestry, but how was such a vast project actually tackled, who made it, what do all the pictures mean and what sort of stitches were used in its making? All these questions and more get answered in this beautiful and unusual book.” ― Myshelf.comThis fascinating historical guide, re-issued in a stunning collector's hardback format, examines the following questions:Who were the embroiderers of the Bayeux Tapestry?What were the embroiderers' tools, their materials, and how could such a massive project have been designed and organised?Under what working conditions was the Bayeux Tapestry constructed?In this book Jan draws upon her own experience as an embroiderer and artist to piece together all the clues she can find in the tapestry itself. This unique guide gives a thoughtful and researched explanation of how the tapestry was stitched, placing its creation in a plausible context; it celebrates the craftsmanship of the incredible forgotten women who poured their creativity and skill into its creation.This book is comprised of an introduction, seven beautifully hand-drawn and handwritten chapters, and a gorgeous landscape of the author's finished reconstruction. At the back of the book, you can find some recommended reading and all of the text transcribed into a printed typeface. For this special collector's edition, a new preface has been written by Jan, acknowledging the new discoveries that have been made since the book's initial publication 25 years ago.About the author: Jan Messent is a renowned embroiderer, Art, History and English teacher. Jan has lectured about these subjects worldwide and taught embroidery to the members of the Embroiderer's Guild. In 1996 she was commissioned to create a reconstruction of the missing last eight feet of the Bayeux Tapestry, which led her to write this considered and carefully illustrated book. Her exploration of the history of the tapestry is written from a designer's and embroiderer's perspective, providing a unique insight into the practicalities of producing such a piece.This book is a hardback reissue of The Bayeux Tapestry Embroiderers' Story (9781844485840) published in 2010.

Stop following the rules and start writing your own.Packed with 50 rule-breaking practical techniques, tricks and approaches to unlock your creativity, this is the ultimate guide to creating truly innovative art.‘Don’t use black.’ ‘You mustn’t lead the eye out of the painting.’‘Never put your subject slap-bang in the middle!’Maybe you’ve heard one, two or all of these ‘golden rules’… But why? As Picasso put it, you should: ‘learn the rules like a pro so that you can break them like an artist.’ Paint outside the box: 50 fun, rule-breaking exercises, each with an inspiring finished painting, practical techniques and handy tips.Lose the fear of getting it wrong: Learn to reconnect with your creativity, develop an eye for innovation, and never feel afraid of a blank canvas again.Perfect for artists of all abilities: Discover inspiration for your next project – dip in and out if you find a rule you want to challenge, or work through them in order.Reinvigorate your painting practice: the practical exercises are worked in oils, but the principles apply across different artistic mediums. This book, from best-selling and award-winning author Haidee-Jo Summers, is the perfect gift for artists of all abilities. It contains 50 fresh, lively ideas for challenging conventional artistic wisdom – showing that you can create something really, really right, even when you do everything wrong!

10 utterly adorable amigurumi animals to brighten your day, from popular designer Femke Vindevogel!Bring Kate Koala and her BFFs – Polly Penguin, Beatrice Bunny and Magnus Moose – to life, with these simple crochet patterns perfect for confident beginners.Kate Koala loves to surf the waves come rain or shine, Puck Pug is a snoozy pup who practises yoga in his onesie, and Polly Penguin has a complete obsession with caramel sprinkle frappés - pick your favourite or create the whole set!Whether you are at adventurous beginner or intermediate level, there is a playful amigurumi project waiting for you, complete with all the necessary templates and with all the key techniques clearly explained.The 10 stash-busting projects measure between 15cm (6in) and 28cm (11in) high (but have personalities much bigger!)Have fun adding pops of colour to your creations with smart, customizable accessories: a cute fish sweater and fish bag for Cato Cat, a comfy travel pillow for Puck Pug and noise-cancelling headphones for Shane Sharky.The projects are perfect to keep and treasure, or to gift to someone you love.

Create your own stitched masterpieces with a range of stunning designs from world-renowned embroiderer Trish Burr.This fantastic resource book contains 75 of Trish's exquisite embroidery designs on easy-to-use iron-on transfer paper, with full-colour stitch inspiration for each design.Whatever your embroidery ability, you can get started with confidence using one of Trish's tried-and-tested designs. This beautiful book contains a bumper selection of 75 inspiring iron-on designs from two of Trish’s best-selling embroidery books (The Kew Book of Embroidered Flowers and The Kew Book of Embroidered Nature Samplers), plus over 40 designs taken from Trish’s popular embroidery patterns (which have never been published in her books before). Choose from a stunning collection of nature-themed motifs, including flowers, butterflies and bees.The book gives colour inspiration for every design so that you can follow Trish’s original silk shading, or choose your own palette.There is a helpful guide to using the iron-on transfer paper, and each transfer can be used, stored then reused multiple times. A test transfer is also included, so that you can try out the technique before committing to one of the designs.This fabulous book contains a bumper selection of designs to choose from and will provide you with the confidence you need to create your own stitched masterpieces.