Hi everyone, Amy here. You know I <3 me some craft books so I've got a brand-new review for you today. Stay tuned for the inside scoop on craft books every Wednesday from now 'til I run out of books to review...and it doesn't look like that'll happen anytime soon! 
The Crafter's Companion: Tips, Tales and Patterns from a Community of Creative Minds by Anna Torborg
My review
rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book profiles many of the crafters you know and love (and some you may not know but will be sure love). Some of the names you might know are Amy Karol, Heidi Kenney and Hillary Lang - just to name a few. Editor Anna Torborg attempts to answer the eternal question, "Why do we bother making things by hand?" by having each artist explain why she creates and where she gets her inspiration from. You also get a peak at each artist's workspace, which is always intriguing as well as inspiring.
The projects themselves only take up about 20 pages out of 160 so that gives you an idea what to expect project-wise. If you want to get right down to business with projects and patterns then you might choose another book.
The instructions and diagrams are pretty clear and easy to follow. One thing I didn't like was that the projects are all shoved in the back so you have to flip back through the front of the book to see the corresponding photo of the finished product. But, hey, I'm just lazy that way. It surely didn't stop me from purchasing the book!
My favorite projects are Heidi Kenney's house-shaped tissue cover, Cassi Griffin's fabric scarf and brooch duo and Myra Masuda's elephant pouch. I've also made the ice cream pin cushion by Katey Nicosia and it's super-easy and super-cute and fun. I think these would make great party favors or gifts for your crafty friends!
All in all, I would say that the Crafter's Companion is light in the project department but heavy with inspiration. This book will get you in the mood to be creative and you'll discover some great blogs along the way.
P.S.) Don't forget to check out the Flickr group:
http://www.flickr.com/groups/4...
thanks for sharing - I loved this book too! It's so great hearing peoples thoughts and perspective, putting their crafting in context.
Posted by: Niku | September 03, 2008 at 03:00 PM