What I’m reading: Sewlicious by Kate Haxell

There are some great craft books coming out at the moment. I’ve found a few extra pennies to purchase a few and have ear-marked a few projects to make as gifts for people this year. One book I received to review  was Sewlicious – 35 ways to a handmade world. The author, Kate Haxell, creates 35 stitched and highly original projects.

This is a lovely craft book, beautifully photographed with clear instructions. The patterns are a little different from other craft books which is really refreshing. In the introduction Kate Haxell explains that “Sewlicious” is delicious sewing. “That just because something is perfectly practical, it doesn’t have to be ugly; that just because something is quick and easy to make, it doesn’t have to be clunky; and that just because something is utterly frivolous, it doesn’t have to be throwaway.”

The book is divided into 4 sections – for your house, for festivals and glamping, to wear and for crafting:

At Home I Have … includes a patchwork quilt with a pattern based on the Fibonacci sequence, you can explore alternative embroidery with the skull picture (which would be perfect for a Day of the Dead or Halloween party) or a cool Tattooed rag doll

Under Canvas I Love … find your tent with a home-made patchwork flag and keep your stuff in a handy purse belt, waterproof tablet case, and yo-yo decorated storage pouch

Today I’m Wearing … shows you how to make the perfect pretty-and-practical apron, as well as an embellished collar to liven up plain tops and a patchwork coat for your pooch

I Like to Make … discover a knitter’s bucket bag, needle roll, pincushion and more

The projects are great if you’re looking for something different from your normal sewing book. There’s a project to see you through every month of the year and some great ideas to jazz up your every day items. Kate Haxell is the author of many craft books including Super-cute Pincushions, Vintage Hearts & Flowers and the Sead Bead Book, all published by CICO Books. You can visit her website at katehaxell.co.uk

Sewlicious – 35 ways to a handmade world by Kate Haxell is published by CICO at £14.99. and is available from all good bookshops or call 01256 302699.