Showing posts with label Craft Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Craft Reviews. Show all posts

Saturday, June 15, 2024

Summertime Stitching Craft Review


Many hobbyists enjoy stitching. Sewing is one form of stitching, either by hand or by sewing machine. But it is not the only stitching craft. There is also stitching found in embroidery and in needlework. Quilting is also a form of stitching and yarn crafts (crochet and knitting) involve stitches.


Sewing on a sewing machine


In this review, we will look at a few examples in the craft world of stitching. And since summer is just beginning, we shall focus on a summertime theme.


Sundresses to Sew


Sundress
Image Source: Pixabay
 

Summertime encourages the wearing of lightweight clothing. Thus, a sweet sundress is just the thing for those hot summer days.  There are a large variety of sundress patterns available in your local fabric stores and on Amazon and Etsy.


Vintage patterns are also found on the eBay site when you are in the mood for that ‘retro’ look.


Pick up a new (or vintage) sundress pattern from Simplicity, McCalls and more at your favorite place to purchase sewing patterns and stitch up something new for your summer vacation. 


Stitch a Quilt


Pattern for a modern Flashback quilt
Quilt pattern for a modern Flashback design
by Orange Dot Quilts on Etsy

Quilting is another form of stitching and takes many forms from a full bed size blanket quilt to quilted home decor in the form of placemats and table runners, hot pads and more. You can find this pattern at Dora's Etsy Store


With so many quilting patterns to choose from, your summer stitching choices are unlimited. 


Embroidery & Needlework


Embrodery project
Embroidery Example - Pixabay Image

Projects in embroidery, cross stitch and plastic canvas needlework are great summer projects for the hobbyist because they are usually small and, thus, very portable. Take along one of these smaller projects on your summer vacation or your staycation in your backyard while the kids are playing in the pool. 


Plastic canvas project
My tissue box cover craft project in progress


I worked on this tissue box cover in plastic canvas and yarn while house sitting and pet sitting my grandpuppy Pepe the Poodle while my Kids and Grandkids were on vacation. A fun way to feel productive while living at someone else’s home. 



Cartoon Bunny design on a handmade tissue box cover
Finished tissue box cover
with cartoon character design


*Note: Finished project is now in my Etsy Shop here! :) 


Summary


Image of a manneguin for sewing projects
Image Source: Pixabay


So, choose your favorite form of stitching and fill some of your free summertime hours working on the creative project you like best. 


For more Craft Reviews

Check out ReviewThisCrafts.com


*Summertime Stitching Review written by Wednesday Elf


 




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, September 23, 2023

Review of the Zoomigurumi Crochet Craft Books Series

 As we crochet crafters know, Amigurumi is the Japanese art of crocheting small, stuffed yarn creatures. Zoomigurumi takes it one step further and concentrates on animals found in the wild or domesticated ones we have as pets. 


A collage of the 12 craft books in the Zoomigurumi book series

This series of twelve craft books features patterns for a wide variety of very cute and clever animals to crochet as huggable soft handmade toys. Each book in the series features from 12 to 15 animal patterns, each one by a different designer. The patterns range from beginner to advanced, so every crochet crafter can find one or more to fit their abilities. The series was produced by AmigurumiPatterns.net, a popular handicraft website. 


The List of the Zoomigurumi Craft Books


Zoomigurumi Craft Book #1 book cover
Book 1 of 12. Zoomigurumi. 12 designers have teamed up in this first Zoomigurumi craft book to give you patterns for a Baby Bear, a Pig, a Toucan, a Tiger and a Pony, a Monkey and Lil Quack the Duck, a Lemur, a Fox, Dakota the Dog and Eduardo the Donkey, a Moose, a cute Mouse and a Bunny. 




Zoomigurumi 2 book cover
Book 2 of 12. Zoomigurumi 2. This volume has 15 cute and cuddly amigurumi animal patterns for a Turtle, a Cow, a Raccoon, a Beaver, a Kitten and a Dog, a Fox, an Elephant, a Bunny, a cute Skunk, two lovable Lambs, a Lion and a Tiger, Manfred the Mouse and Penny the Piglet. 


Book #3 in the Book 3 in the Zoomigurumi Craft Book Series - book cover
Book 3 of 12. Zoomigurumi 3.  This volume has 15 new Amigurumi animal patterns from 12 top designers. The patterns include Henry the Hippo, a darling Fawn, a Penguin, a Husky dog, a Duckling, a  Giant Panda, a Cow, a Hedgehog, a Fox, a cuddly Lamb, a Turtle, a pair of Kangaroos, a Red Panda, a Bird and a Reindeer.


Zoomigurumi 4 book cover
Book 4 of 12. Zoomigurumi 4. This book has 15 new animal patterns created by 13 talented designers from all over the world. Create your very own kitten, dolphin. elephant, giraffe, orangutan, deer, seahorse, and an adorable bumblebee wearing sunglasses. The craft book also contains seven more animal patterns.


Zoomigurumi 5 Book Cover
Book 5 of 12. Zoomigurumi 5.  Here we have 15 more cute Amigurumi animal patterns. My favorite is the Walrus. And the beautiful peacock on the cover is a darling pattern. There is also a camel to crochet, a flamingo, a rhino, a trout, and a teddy wearing a hoodie.



Zoomigurumi 6 Book Cover
Book 6 of 12. Zoomigurumi 6. From the red panda on the cover to the owl in a sweater, to a sweet shark, a sloth and a swan, this book of 15 patterns will keep your crochet hook busy! Don't forget to check out the hummingbird, a panda, two dachshunds and Mortimer the Mammoth. 


Zoomigurumi 7 Book Cover
Book 7 of 12. Zoomigurumi 7.  The mallard duck and babies on the cover will entice you to their patterns, plus some unusual ones such as a seagull, a Llama, a moose, a zebra, a stork, a pony and a chicken on a nest. 



Zoomigurumi 8 Book Cover
Book 8 of 12. Zoomigurumi 8.  Come and crochet a parrot, a baby seal, a goat, a giraffe and a caterpiller. Don't forget the meerkat, the beaver and the raccoon. Such darling patterns from so many talented designers. 



Zoomigurumi 9 Book Cover
Book 9 of 12. Zoomigurumi 9. Fifteen more adorable patterns from the friendly horse on the cover to an anglerfish, an otter with his seashell, a sheep, and even a Gecko. From patterns that are beginner-friendly to some suitable for advanced crocheters, they are all accompanied by easy-to-follow instructions and clear illustrations. 


Zoomigurumi 10 Book Cover
Book 10 of 12. Zoomigurumi 10. The kangaroo and  her 'joey' on the cover will keep you from resting that crochet hook. The 'zoomies' in book 10 include a feisty crab, a bouncy kangaroo, a lively squirrel, and a dainty bunny, along with a gorilla, a badger, a koala and Andy Ant! 


Zoomigurumi Endangered Animals Book Cover
Book 11 of 12. Zoomigurumi Endangered Animals. This is a special edition of the Zoomigurumi series featuring 15 of the wild animals on our planet that are threatened. Crochet a collection of these special animals, including a lovable giant panda, a precious monk seal, a gorgeous blue whale and a darling pangolin! There is also a mountain gorilla and her baby, a polar bear, and Cleo the Yellow-Crested Cockatoo


Zoomigurumi Favorites Book Cover
Book 12 of 12.  Zoomigurumi Favorites. This crochet pattern book completes the Zoomigurumi series with 30 of the best-loved patterns from the other books. With Zoomigurumi Favorites. your house may transform into an entire amigurumi zoo! 



The Zoomigurumi series of crochet craft pattern books are all available on Amazon


My Zoomis!


My handmade crocheted 'Zoomies' from the craft patterns in the Zoomigurumi Craft Book Series
A few of my crocheted 'Zoomies'

Here are a few of the cute zoomigurumi animals I have crocheted from this Zoomigurumi series of crochet pattern books.  My favorites, to date, are the wonderful walrus and the Giant Panda Bear. They are currently available in my Etsy Store Coastal Crochet Crafts. I DO so love to crochet and finding these darling patterns was a true delight. 


Happy Crocheting! 


Links to more reviews of crochet craft books:


For More Book Reviews, check out ReviewThisBooks.com

For More Craft Reviews, check out ReviewThisCrafts.com 


*Review of the Zoomigurumi Series of crochet pattern books written by Wednesday Elf





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, August 12, 2023

Funny Amigurumi – A Crochet Craft Pattern Book Review


16 Creatures & Their Accessories to Crochet by Emilie Penou


Amigurumi is the Japanese craft of crocheting small stuffed animals and toys.


Images of stuffed animal crochet patterns


Funny Amigurumi Craft Book


Funny Amigurumi Craft Book Cover

This crochet craft book has 16 quirky creatures to create.  Each one has a cute accessory.


These characters are portable, collectible and very giftable.  They average about 4.5 inches tall, depending upon the yarn and the size crochet hook you choose to use. The author recommends a cotton yarn that is a sock/super fine weight 1 yarn used with a D hook  I prefer to work in a worsted weight 4 acrylic yarn and almost always use an F hook.

Therefore, my version of the hedgehog, for instance, turned out to be 8 inches tall, about twice what the pattern in the book states. Crochet crafters will understand what I mean by preference. :)


The List of Characters in Funny Amigurumi include:


  1. Mini Bunny and Carrot
  2. Mini Bug and Aphid
  3. Mini Tiger and Bow tie
  4. Mini Fox and Mask
  5. Mini Chicken and Cape
  6. Dragon and Surfboard
  7. Unicorn and Cloud
  8. Owl and Witch Hat
  9. Reindeer and Scarf
  10. Frog and Crown
  11. Hedgehog and Hairbrush
  12. Donkey and Hat
  13. Wolf and Broccoli
  14. Penguin and Floatie
  15. Sheep and Fox Blankie
  16. Squid and Book


These patterns are fairly quick to crochet and most are good for beginners with easy-to-follow instructions. Most can be made in a day or a weekend. They are small enough to be portable for creating on the go! 


Several of the characters/animals in this book are done in a similar style, with the body being sort of pear-shaped, such as the wolf and the unicorn. 


There are several pages of crochet lessons at the beginning of the book. I found the lessons well worth reading and very helpful. In fact, I learned something I'd never known, even after crocheting for over 40 years.


I also really liked the fact that the individual patterns each give you specific instructions on exactly where to place the arms, legs, ears and features. Having followed many a pattern over the years, I have to tell you that having the pattern author tell you to, for instance, insert the eyes between row 18 and 19, with 15 stitches in between is invaluable. Many times I have had to look at a picture and try and figure out how many rows down the eyes or ears are placed, which naturally can be time-consuming and frustrating. 


My Recent Creations from Funny Amigurumi


Plush crocheted Hedgehog looking at the pattern in the craft book
I loved the Hedgehog, one of my favorite animals to crochet.  I got a big kick out of the Hedgehog accessory. He comes with a hairbrush, which makes sense as he will need one to comb out his 'quills'.  


The quills are easy to make, but are a bit time-consuming as you cut strands of yarn, then insert the hook under a stitch, grab the middle of the yarn with the hook and pull it through the stitch. Then you grab the two tail strands of yarn and pull them through the loop on the hook. In my version, it took over 100 strands to create the quill look I wanted across the head and all the way down the back. Turned out really cute, though. :)


Plush toy wolf and pattern book
The Wolf was fun to make and turned out so nice. The picture in the pattern book looks like he is done in tan, but the pattern calls for gray yarn, which is what I used, since wolves are normally gray in color. The nose on the pattern appears to be embroidered in black yarn, but I have always had problems getting the embroidery to come out neatly when working on a yarn piece. Therefore, this time I came up with another idea. I simply crocheted a 6 stitch circle and sewed it onto the tip of the nose. Came out very neat, instead of the sloppy look my embroidery always gives me. LOL. 


Plush white rabbit with carrot. Crochet pattern in Funny Amigurimi craft book.
The Bunny was such a delightful plush toy to create. He reminds me of the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland


And I love the crochet carrot they included in the bunny rabbit pattern.


Such a cute accessory for a plush bunny! 




Summary


Funny Amigurumi Craft Book Front & Back

So, if you are looking for a cute collection of 'funny' and fun creatures to crochet, Funny Amigurumi is a good book to have in your craft library. 


Quick Links to More Craft Book Reviews:



Note:

Crocheted Bunny, hedgehog, wolf in a photo collage

If you liked the crafty critters I have featured here, but do not crochet, the Hedgehog, the Wolf, and the Bunny & his carrot shown in this review are currently available for purchase in my Etsy Store, Coastal Crochet Crafts. More will be along soon as I am busy with my crochet hook! 


*Review of the Crochet Craft Book Funny Amigurumi was written by

~Wednesday Elf


For More Reviews in the world of crafts, check out
ReviewThisCrafts.com 
 






Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, November 5, 2022

Get Started with Your Christmas Crafting Today

A DIY Craft Review

 

A Santa toy train

Crafters Rejoice! It's holiday crafting time again. Let's review some crafty ideas.


Now that the Fall season has officially begun, thoughts of the upcoming holidays of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas begin to sift into our minds. For crafters, this means that NOW is the time to begin planning for and starting on those Christmas crafts.  Whether you want to create clever Christmas décor, or plan on crafting holiday gifts for loved ones, it is never too early to begin.


Follow along for some kits and pattern ideas for your holiday crafting. 


Kit Ideas for Christmas Décor


Felt stocking kit with Santa and toys

Create your own Christmas stockings with this Santa with Toys stocking kit from Design Works. This felt applique kit comes complete with all supplies (except stuffing), plus pattern and directions. It can be found in the eBay store of House of Sylvestermouse


More stocking kits with Santa or a Snowman can be found here


Creative Patterns & Kits for Christmas Gifts


Christmas Bird Feeder


A kit to make your own Christmas bird feeder

A clever and unique gift for kids whose families enjoy bird feeders is this Christmas Bird Feeder DIY Kit, a fun and educational Christmas gift/project that will get your little ones to explore and care for nature. This seasonal kit is easy enough for toddlers and school-aged children to follow along.


This kit includes:

  • Wild Bird Seeds
  • Christmas Plastic Cookie Cutters (3)
  • Unflavored Gelatin (2)
  • Pre-Cut Twine (3)
  • Easy-to-Follow Instructions

 

This kit is gift-ready for Christmas. *Adult supervision recommended.


Macramé Christmas Tree DIY Kit


A Christmas Tree ornament craft kit

This is a complete DIY Macramé Christmas Tree Craft Kit, which helps you make a lovely Macramé Christmas Tree totally on your own with easy-to-follow step-by-step instruction. It also could be a perfect idea for Nursery wall décor and living room décor.


This DIY craft kit will be a lovely gift idea for the Macramé Beginner. 


*These kits include complete materials for you to make a macramé wall hanging by yourself: Friendly Cotton Cords, Wooden Ring and Beads, Basic Knot Sheet, Link to Tutorial video. Finished size is about 12.5” H x 8” W.


Clever Christmas Craft Kit for Kids


Holiday Snow Globes 


A craft kit for kids to create Snow Globes

These Kid-friendly Snow Globes are easy art projects for kids ages 6 years and up. It's a holiday craft kit that comes complete with all supplies needed to create 3 winter wonderland snow globes in Christmas themes. Kids can create these handmade holiday crafts for their own Christmas décor or to give as a gift. From Creativity for Kids, a company which offers fun and creative experiences today to nurture children’s confidence for life. 


*Christmas Crafting Review written by Wednesday Elf





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, October 8, 2022

The Whole Kit and Caboodle

 A Craft Kit Review


Image of a collection of crafts


What's the meaning of the phrase 'The whole kit and caboodle'?

A collection of things. 


Dictionary Meaning of Kit & Caboodle (The words have similar meanings):


  • A kit - is a set of objects, as in a toolkit.
  • A caboodle (or boodle) is an archaic term meaning group or collection. 


In crafting, a kit means having everything you need for your next DIY project in one box or package.  Below are some examples of kits for crafters in a variety of mediums. They are especially helpful to beginners who might not know exactly what they might need to have when learning a new craft. 


Craft Kits


Crochet


Dinosaur crochet craft kit

Start your own Jurassic Park with this dinosaur crochet kit! This kit includes all the materials you need to make 4 different dinosaurs, including a T-rex, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, and Brontosaurus! It even includes instructions for how to customize your dinos with pattern variations. 

Kit includes 

The Yarn (Yellow- Blue- Purple- Pink- White), Plastic Safety Bead eyes x 8, Pipe Cleaners, Stuffing, Darning Needle and Crochet hook (size G6/4.00mm).  The Kit also includes the pattern bundle of 5 unique patterns, each with their own full-length video tutorials so you never miss a stitch!


Knitting


A craft kit to knit a snood

This Beginner Knitting Kit for a snood is a great start for someone who is interested in learning to knit.

You can learn cast on, cast off, knit, purl and sewing thanks to basic illustrations and guidance included in How To Knit manual in this kit while you create a beautiful snood.

Everything you are going to need for your snood is included in the kit. All you need to do is decide which color you would like and whether you want knitting needles or not.


Sewing


A sewing kit to create a dragon

Dragon - Sewing KIT, artist pattern, stuffed toy tutorials, soft animal, soft toy DIY craft kit.

This SEWING KIT includes a printed pattern with easy to follow step-by-step instructions and a link to a video tutorial. Plus, supplies for making this adorable mini dragon toy.


Felt


A craft kit to create a polar bear & penguin in felt for a centerpiece

Create an adorable centerpiece kit for your holiday décor. This POLAR BEAR & PENGUINS FELT APPLIQUE CENTERPIECE KIT comes with everything you need to complete it (Stamped Felts, Cotton Floss, Acrylic Yarn, Needle, and Instructions) except the stuffing. The completed centerpiece measures 11.5" x 9" x 10". Kit can be found in the eBay store House of Sylvestermouse.


Quilting


a craft kit to create a quilted tote bag


Quilted tote bag kit.  


Kit includes Pre-cut fabric of your choice from several designs offered, plus instructions. 

Finished size: 14”x14” with 19” handles


*For more quilting ideas, read this review by Sylvestermouse all about creating a gorgeous wall hanging with a Quilt Magic Kit Wallhanging


Holiday Décor Kits


Create your own bead and sequin Christmas ornaments as Sylvestermouse did. Read her review here to find a variety of kits for many lovely ornaments.


Craft Kits for Kids


Hide & Seek Rock Painting Craft Kit
There are many craft kits made especially for children.  This review of the Hide and Seek Rock Painting Kit by Wednesday Elf is perfect for kids, especially ones who enjoy artistic endeavors like my grandson David does.







Summary


As you can see, there are craft kits in every medium you can name. Whatever your crafting interest is, you will find a kit available. 


Related Link:



See More Craft Reviews at

ReviewThisCrafts.com



*Craft Review by Wednesday Elf






Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, July 2, 2022

The World of Granny Squares – a Craft Review

 Granny Squares are a popular crochet motif worked in rounds from the center outward.


Granny Square afghan in crochet


Each motif is created separately, then joined together to make a finished item. Traditionally, granny squares were used to make afghans, but they also make great patchwork scarves, purses, shawls and a wide variety of items.


The traditional granny square was designed by a Mrs. Phelps in 1885. It was published in the Prairie Farmer, which is the oldest magazine publication in America. Based in Chicago, it has served the Illinois farmer for over 175 years. 


The Traditional Granny Square


This square motif has many variations. The traditional one is a double-crochet square made by using a series of chains and double-crocheted blocks. The most familiar granny square is, of course, square. But by using different stitch types, other geometric shapes, such as hexagons, can be produced. Crocheting granny squares are also a fun and quick way to try out different crochet stitches.


Dozens of books, articles and YouTube videos are available to teach you the variations of this familiar motif.


Examples of Granny Square Garments:


The most well known granny square example is the traditional afghan. I can well remember the one my grandmother had (made by HER mother; my 'Banny').  The granny squares were joined together with black yarn, which was the traditional way originally. That afghan sat on the back of my grandmother's couch for my entire childhood. I can recall many a visit where I would curl up on the couch with that afghan. An example is shown below:


Granny square afghan


A retro granny square afghan

This retro Granny Square afghan is a 1970s crochet pattern featured by Pearl in her Etsy Shop PearlShoreCat. This vintage pattern is available as an instant digital download. Give your home décor a vintage look-from-grandma's-time with this classic blanket throw.


Purses are a popular way to use granny squares. ….


Shoulder Bag created in crochet in a granny square pattern

Lauren of MoonageCrochet on Etsy used the hexagonal style of granny squares to create this gorgeous shoulder bag


Shawls are also a well known way to use the granny square motifs.

 

Granny square winter scarf

Granny squares were used to create this colorful long patchwork-look winter scarf. It is featured in the Etsy Shop MyCottonAccessories


Summary


As you can see in the featured items above, you can create just about anything using crocheted Granny Squares. A time-honored technique that is always stylish.


The World of Granny Squares Craft Review was written by Wednesday Elf


For more Craft Reviews, check out

ReviewThisCrafts.com






Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


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