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Handmade Chic: Fashionable Projects That Look High-End, Not Homespun (2012)

by Laura Bennett(Favorite Author)

3.25 of 5 Votes: 3

ISBN

1609613007 (ISBN13: 9781609613006)

languge

English

genre

Nonfiction

publisher

Rodale Books

review 1: Despite the fact the subtitle is a bit insulting to handmade crafts, I was curious. Plus, some people do not like handmade crafts so I was wondering if this would be the book for them. Really all it is about is choosing higher end materials. Makes sense since materials can make the difference in anything that you make. HOWEVER, I think that you could still make things in this book without breaking the bank. Finding goods at Goodwill or things that just don't fit anymore could become material for things in this book. I can see scraps and refashioned products in any of her projects.There were projects I can see people who read book blogs really liking. For example, there was a book cover made out of leather. This would be not for a general size of book (like mass market) but... more for a book you are wanting to preserve with a hearty cover.You could easily buy scraps from leather craft stores.There are also covers for ereaders. Specifically in this book there are dimensions and specifics for Kindle and iPad. I do have to warn people who simply hate crafting in fur. The author does use real fur, but if that doesn't bother you, just use faux fur. Honestly, I think it would be easier to deal with anyway. You could make not so costly mistakes that way.I give this book 3 stars which are all for the type of projects within the book and not the writing. In other words, very interesting projects, but not so interesting that I can ignore the barbs to crafting which I always think should be fun! Being so uptight about your projects kind of takes away that fun for me.
review 2: There has been an explosion of books and blogs lately as a part of a DIY (do-it-yourself) movement. Now, with just a little money and time, you can recreate designer looks at home without mortgaging it in the process. Sometimes, though, even at the hands of highly skilled artisans, the resulting items look a little too "homespun" and not like the things you see on current runways. And that's fine for people who want that look, but there is a void in the market for chic diy books.Laura Bennett's latest book fills that void. Best known for her sleek, elegant designs on season 3 of Project Runway, Bennett has compiled a collection of accessories that are easy to make and incredibly stylish. What I loved most about it is the inclusion of materials that many shy away from: leather, fur (faux or real), feathers, and beads. Her instructions for buying and using them definitely take the intimidation factor away. The 40 projects include covers for electronics (e-readers, iPads, etc.), wallets, purses, and much more, including embellishing ready-to-wear garments.This book is a valuable addition to any sewing and craft book library, especially my extensive one! less

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