Wednesday, May 2, 2012

DIY Book Alert: Handmade Chic

I found a book you will LOVE. Seriously, this is one book you should consider getting your hands on pronto. I am in love with these projects.

Handmade Chic: Fashionable Projects That Look High-End, Not Homespun
By: Laura Bennett

The projects in this book are gorgeous. Laura Bennett includes step-by-step instructions with illustrations, so there's no guesswork. Just perfect instruction and even fun variations on the projects outlined (ie: how to use leather cuff directions to create a great belt instead).

I'm an amateur sewer at best, but that is not scaring me away. I'm so excited to make my own Kindle cover. And skinny belts! Or to make them as gifts for family and friends. How impressed do you think your best friend would be to learn that you MADE her a gorgeous tote or laptop sleeve? I know I could use some new furry slippers and, oh look! There's a section on that!

This is one of the best DIY books I've come across in a while. The projects are fully illustrated and the directions are simple and concise. The first section of the book is an intro to working with materials (leather, fabric, feathers, beads, hardware, fur), as well as sewing basics and terminology. There are 30+ awesome projects, many with variations.

Amazon has the hardcover, as well as a Kindle edition available. I'm starting to wish I had a Kindle Fire so I could have everything in color!

Have any of you seen this book? Or made any of the projects in it? I'm planning to try my hand at some--keep an eye out for future coolness! Thank you, Laura Bennett, for these amazing ideas and instructions!