Book Review – MESS – Craft Gossip

ISBN 9780399536007 RRP $13.95

I was lucky enough to receive a Galley Proof for Keri’s new book MESS. My 2 year old grabbed the book and asked if she could draw in it. I had not even read the title and snapped back NO that’s mummy’s book. She informed me it was a drawing book and proceeded to look for a pencil.

After reading the introduction I thought wow, what better way to MESS up this book than to let me 2 year old have a go.

What am I talking about?

You may be familiar with her best selling book “Wreck this Journal” where Keri provokes her readers to Wreck the journal by poking holes in pages, tearing things up and much much more.

Well MESS (the book) is pretty much the same thing, the book is filled with directions on how to MESS up the book with quirky challenges to inspire you to be creative. Not only by yourself but with others too with several pages being directed to Groups.

Edited to add: Now that my children are older I can truly appreciate the importance of children learning that imperfection is okay. I have two children who like to get things right all the time. This book is something we have revisited to show them that mess is not only creative it is also an important step in life, that can be acceptable.

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Let me just start by saying—this book is an absolute dream for anyone who gets a little thrill from dusty corners, vintage finds, and the stories old objects tell. Better Homes and Gardens Flea Market Decorating is like walking through the best parts of a weekend market, but with someone stylish and savvy whispering decorating secrets in your ear.

If you’re like me and can’t walk past a chipped enamel jug or a stack of mismatched teacups without imagining them repurposed into something fabulous, then you’re going to feel right at home with this book. It’s filled with page after page of design inspiration, styling tips, and clever ideas for giving new life to old treasures. Think: a weathered bench turned entryway showstopper, or a collection of vintage cameras displayed as functional art.

What I really loved is how the book doesn’t take itself too seriously. It celebrates personality, imperfection, and the charm of the unexpected. You don’t need a designer budget or a house full of pristine antiques—just a good eye, a bit of imagination, and maybe a love of digging through secondhand stalls.

There are also practical tips woven in, like how to spot a quality piece, clean up a flea market find, or figure out how to mix styles without ending up with a room that feels like grandma’s attic (unless, of course, that’s the vibe you’re going for—and no judgment here!).

As someone who regularly repurposes and upcycles, I appreciated how much the book encourages sustainability. It’s a gentle nudge toward mindful decorating—choosing pieces with history and heart, rather than filling your space with fast decor.

Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or just dipping your toes into the vintage pool, this one is definitely worth flipping through with a cup of tea and a notebook full of ideas. It left me itching to hit my local flea market and find my next project. If your idea of a perfect weekend involves rummaging for forgotten treasures, you’ll absolutely love it.

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Have you read?