Booklist Reviews
*Starred Review* Kudos to Carlson for giving readers a look at not just one or two of the fiber arts but a whole basket full of them, including knitting, felting, knotting, braiding, spinning, weaving, crocheting, and dyeing. Whew! She begins with a history of fiber handcrafts, advice on how to choose projects, and informative "Know Your Fibers" pages that can easily be used in classrooms. Each section also provides historical information: how and where the craft developed and the ways it was put to use in the community. Once she gets into the "how-to" portions, Carlson provides clear instructions, both for learning the nitty-gritty of each craft, as well as in the directions for each project. Among the creations on offer are felted bags, finger- (and needle-) knit scarves, crocheted necklaces, tie-dyed tees, woven coasters, and braided rugs. Though color artwork would have been nice, the sturdy black-and-white illustrations are clear and easy to understand. In fact, the whole design, with its clean layout and good-sized print, invites children to pick it up right alongside a piece of yarn . . . or twine . . . or cloth . . . well, you get the idea. Copyright 2014 Booklist Reviews.
Publishers Weekly Reviews
This collection of fiber arts projects introduces the basics of weaving, knitting, sewing, crochet, and other techniques, while providing an approachable history of these cloth-based crafts. The projects can be as simple as wrapping wool fiber around soap to create a "natural scrubber" and as involved as knitting a pair of slippers, perhaps using yarn dyed at home using spices, beet powder, or drink mixes. Augmented by b&w line illustrations, Carlson's warm, straightforward writing clearly describes each project, along with supplemental historical details ("People began weaving thousands of years ago, using twigs as a loom"). Readers interested in exploring fiber crafts should find this to be an accessible entry point, with a broad range of methods to try. Ages 9–12. (June)
[Page ]. Copyright 2016 PWxyz LLCSchool Library Journal Reviews
Gr 4–7—In this joyous exploration of fiber arts, students will learn how to felt, knot, spin, weave, knit, crochet, and dye a variety of textiles. Before the activities begin, different fibers (natural and synthetic) are defined and given a brief history—a valuable resource for even the most seasoned of crafters. Each section provides a comprehensive overview of practical skill-building projects and fun decorative ones. For instance, in the "Weaving" chapter, string art coasters introduce kids to crossing yarn strands so that they can later make tiny fork flowers. The highlight of this title is in the copious amounts of historical, technical, and pop culture information that appears in sidebars—ranging from the boycott of English cloth by Indian independence seekers to George Washington Carver's expertise on and love of textile arts. Social issues are also briefly covered with the mention of the use of crochet mats by charity and church organizations for the homeless (to keep bedding dry) and comfort dolls for abused or traumatized children. VERDICT The fiber projects in this book make for a perfect occasion for library "crafternoons" or at-home child and caregiver bonding.—Kathryn Diman, Bass Harbor Memorial Library, Bernard, ME
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