BOOK REVIEW I

REMAKE RESTYLE REUSE
Sonia Lucano

I got this book on sale a couple of years ago and I highly recommend it! It is a beautiful book, packed with loads of information, pictures and patterns for not a lot of money. Typically I do not buy craft books just to copy the exact project shown so I can’t say that I’ve actually completed any of the craft projects presented in this book, but I have taken full advantage of the tips, ideas and patterns provided and used them as inspiration in creating other unique crafts. If you ARE one of those who likes working off a pattern and instructions, this book is diffidently for you! It is loaded with great photos and artistic sketches that illustrate not only the finished products but the steps and materials used. For almost every project there are letters, text, patterns or images that you can photocopy, mirror or enlarge and use to create the projects shown. The letters, text or patterns are also great to use as inspiration for other projects not shown in the book.

Most of the projects presented use newer materials or objects such as Ikea paper lights, plates or glass vases. The book does make recommendations to use scrap linens and or used jars when appropriate. To keep your projects cost effective and eco friendly I recommend taking their advice and finding your supplies at thrift stores or simply use the patterns to spruce up your own home accessories, pillow, linens or kitchenware.

Here are a couple excerpt instruction and patterns from the book to give you an idea of the style and detail of information provided:


Book Description:
Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Watson-Guptill; illustrated edition edition (April 29, 2008)
Price: $12.50 used -$13.50 new

From Random House Inc: Transform basic items into boutique-worthy home décor. We’ve all got the furniture and the home accessories we can afford. Our stuff came from Target, or Ikea, or Pottery Barn, or Dan’s Dent-and-Ding Depot. Wherever it came from, it’s pretty vanilla. Wistfully, we look through the windows at tony boutiques, admiring the little hand-painted chest, or the exquisite artisan vase, or the beaded curtains, and we ask, “Why was I blessed with such fabulous taste, only to be constantly depressed because these beautiful things are out of my reach financially?” Good news! With ReMake ReStyle ReUse, anyone can create 40 stunning, sophisticated home items, just like the ones in those high-end shops. Only the most basic craft skills are assumed, and everything is provided, including simple step-by-step directions, designs to trace or photocopy, and glowing photographs for instruction and inspiration.

Other similar books to try:
1000 IDEAS FOR CREATIVE REUSE: Remake, Restyle, Recycle, Renew
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Quarry Books (November 1, 2009)
Price: New or Used $16.50