Projects to help you beat the heat

When the stifling heat of August sends you fleeing indoors in search of air-conditioned comfort, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself active and occupied. Whether you're a beginner in search of an easy-to-do project or a dedicated hobbyist looking for more advanced designs, an abundant crop of new books can help you reach your goal. We've selected a sampling of the best in new hobby and craft releases to help make these end-of-summer days productive and rewarding.

Decorative delights

Forget the cheesy flags your neighbors use to signal the changing of the season—make your doorway stand out by decorating it with a homemade wreath. In Fantastic Wreaths, Dale Rohman shows how inexpensive supplies and a little effort can produce stunning decorations for your home. The book uses color photographs to lead you step-by-step through projects created with everything from the traditional (dried flowers and eucalyptus) to the innovative (lemons, candies and moss). The result is a collection of 20 ideas sure to brighten any home.


Gifts from the heart

We all know it's the thought that counts in gift giving. Karen Ehman, Kelly Hovermale and Trish Smith, the authors of Homespun Gifts from the Heart, agree wholeheartedly. Whether or not you consider yourself a "craft queen," the authors promise you'll be able to deliver on one of the many gift ideas, which range from gift baskets to measured and jarred "giftable mixes" to custom designed note cards and wrapping paper. Chapter titles like "Seasonal Sensations" and "Books, Baskets, and Bundles" lend order and help you flip to exactly the right place. It's the perfect way to show someone you care enough to choose (and make!) a gift that's just right.


Need for beads

If decorating yourself is more your speed, pick up The Beader's Palette. After flipping through the color photos in the first half of the book, you'll be so enthralled at the prospect of actually being able to make these gorgeous necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets that you'll have the motivation you need to dive into the clearly explained instructions. The diagrams for making each piece may look complicated, but don't worry: novices can start small with a simple ring and move up to sparkling chokers and pendants. Another bonus for beginners: the book includes lists of necessary supplies, useful hints, suggestions for bead selection and more.


Hooked on Mary Engelbreit

If you love the homespun look of Mary Engelbreit's designs, you'll want to check out her ideas for whimsical household needlework in Crochet the Classics. Engelbreit offers patterns for such items as a cute teapot cozy and matching placemats—both with her trademark black-and-white checked border—refrigerator magnets, hot pads and even a charming little pincushion. If you're reasonably adept with a crochet hook, these patterns (with directions presented in refreshingly large, clear type) should prove easy to finish. As a bonus, Engelbreit includes patterns for a Scottie dog—a signature element in her illustrations—and a bright red sweater to adorn the pooch.


Square deal

Quilting isn't just for grandmas anymore. Once confined to the older set, quilting has become a popular form of artistic expression for all ages, with the traditional patterns of yesterday evolving into more daring combinations of color and form. If you'd like an introduction to the world of quilting, the basics are nicely spelled out in Quilting 101: A Beginner's Guide to Quilting. A manual for the absolute beginner, this beautifully constructed guide takes you through the steps of buying quilting supplies, learning how to use your sewing machine, choosing fabric and assembling the pieces. Detailed photographs help clarify each part of the process and should have you ready to tackle your first project in short order. Instructions are included for 16 simple but attractive quilting projects, from table runners to wall hangings. We bet our batting you'll pleased with the results.


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