Library Notes
September 1, 2013
By John Tucker As the summer draws to a close and the cooler fall temperatures drive the thermometer lower,
the time is right to ponder a new craft adventure. When was the last time you made a gift for an
autumn anniversary or the upcoming holidays? A visit to the public library may help to inspire
your Fall crafting with some fun projects. Take for example the book Naturecrafts: 50 Extraordinary
Gifts and Projects, Step by Step by Gillian Souter. Here you can embrace natural elements such as
flowers, seeds, leaves and fruit to design a variety of beautiful gifts. From creating unique cards
featuring pressed flowers, shell jewelry, and woven baskets from raffia. There is a new idea for every
skill level.
Another option would be the text Quick and Easy Gourd Crafts, by Mickey Baskett. Given this
year’s abundance of rainfall, the gourd crop will be greatly compromised so finding a gourd and turning
it into a craft gift will be all the more special. Whether you paint or carve a design, a beautiful gift
awaits your creative touch.
How about a craft your neighbors might enjoy from the book Scarecrows: Making Harvest
Figures and Other Yard Folks, by Felder Rushing. What was once used to frighten away evil spirits and
birds tormenting crops scarecrows have found a place in gardens dating from the “dark age” of 100 B.C.
Today’s creations tend to embody an art form full of color and props that make us laugh. There is no
rule of thumb, if you have a prop that a human can operate, a scarecrow can be created to do it better.
This book explains how you can create a scarecrow riding a bicycle or lifting a round hay bale. Be sure to
notify Dorothy and her friends from OZ to celebrate your accomplishment.
Should you have an outdoor living space that needs a crafty makeover you might enjoy the book
called Junk: Outdoor Edition by Sue Whitney. The author has extensive photos to inspire creativity as
you makeover a deck, a porch or create an adult retreat in a setting such as tea-for-two, or camping in
the backyard. With an eclectic appeal, this text demonstrates how everyday junk can be recycled into
functional pieces of living space.
Regardless of one’s skill level, the library has a vast collection of craft books to inspire your Fall
activities. Stop in at your local library and make your selections soon.
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