Clearly Cards by Janice Musante et al, softback published by Design Originals in the USA. ISBn 978-1-5742-1643-1, price 12.99 US dollars from www.d-originals.com

This 36-page booklet is a superb guide to using clear acrylic to make cards, tags and more. Discover how to embellish clear acrylic in a variety of ways including rub-ons and rubber stamps. New techniques and advice will give your creativity just the buzz it needs. This is a very clever little book, clear instructions and diagrams are easy to follow. It opens up a world of possibilities. Seven creative people contributed to this wonderful book that comes highly recommended.

Metal Jewelry 101 by Linda Peterson, softback published by Design originals. ISBN 978-1-5742-1275-4, price 8.99 US dollars from www.d-originals.com

Always wanted to make metal jewellery but don’t have the workshop space, tools and so forth? Here is the answer – with simple jewellery pliers and findings and metal sheet (embossing sheets) you can create wearable jewellery in no time. Create earrings or focal pieces for stunning necklaces. Inventive craft for all age levels except young children. I really enjoyed this twenty page booklet that has lots of ideas that you can develop for your own projects.

Batiks Inspired by Bali by Suzanne McNeill, softback published by Design Originals in the USA. ISBN 978-1-5742-1652-3, price 24.99 US dollars from www.d-originals.com

Another truly inspiring effort from Quilt Queen Suzanne. Batik fabrics are so beautiful and it is interesting to see the way Suzanne uses them in a variety of ways. I prefer the geometric block quilts to the applique ones, but that’s just my preference. There are 15 fabulous quilts included in this 84 page book to get you going. You are sure to find something to make and I doubt that it will be just one. Each quilt has precise instructions with fabric used. In addition, this book has photos that give an insight into batik dyeing in Bali. Fantastic.

Magic with Markers by Sherrill Kahn, softback published by Design Originals in the USA. ISBN 978-1-5742-1626-4, price 12.99 US dollars from www.d-originals.com

Subtitled ‘for Paper, Fabric, Wood, Metal, Plastic and Clay with Permanent Markers’ this creative booklet shows you just what you can achieve with a packet of permanent markers and a piece of paper or other material. Make cards, frames, scarves, t-shirts, jewellery and a whole lot more. Doodle or design, you can frame or display your unique artwork. The suggestions included expand upon just laying down flat colour. Tap into your creativity no matter what your skill level or age – you’ll find this booklet great fun.

Big Blocks, Big Quilts by Suzanne McNeill, softback published by Design Originals in the USA. ISBN 978-1-5742-1645-5, price 18.99 US dollars from www.d-originals.com

This 52 page booklet offers eleven terrific ‘layer cake’ quilts. By using big squares, these large quilts are easy and quick to make. Made with easy construction methods, some involving applique, these stylish quilts are eye-catching and not laborious. Some of the ideas are great for kids and these quilts can be made by all age groups too. If you want to make a quilt, but don’t want to take a lifetime to make it, this is the book for you.

Clay Techniques to Dye For by Judy Belcher et al, softback published by Design Originals in the USA. ISBN 978-1-5742-1607-3, price 12.99 US dollars from www.d-originals.com

Polymer clay is one of my favourite fun things to do. Suitable for all ages, it’s a hobby that can become obsessive as you just cannot stop making things. It is so very versatile. In this 26 page booklet, top polymer clay designers show you various methods of dyeing clay. Inspiration abounds in these projects, and once you have mastered the techniques, you’ll be polymer clay-ing until it comes out of your ears. There are plenty ideas in this enjoyable booklet for all skill levels.

The Art of Travel With a Sketchbook by Mari Le Glatin Keis published by Design originals on the USA. ISBN 978-1-5742-1618-9, price 24.99 US dollars from www.d-originals.com

A refreshing look at keeping your own art travel journal with advice not only from the author, but also examples from students’ work. The book itself is cleverly executed and produced like a sketchbook. The six tips to get started are very useful. This is an excellent way not only to improve your skills, but to get more enjoyment out of your surroundings and create fabulous memories for years to come. 

This 98-page book is an insight into the world of sketching. Mari allays your fears about not being able to draw and takes the stance that sketching is for all. The approach is effective and I am sure you will gain much from this book.