Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Book review: Weaving Unloomed

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weaveIn case you’re new to this needlework/ Internet thing, let me tell you: Diane Gilleland is brilliant. I got so excited when I heard about her ebook, Weaving Un-Loomed: Simple Ways to Weave Cool Things, that I posted the news right away, sight unseen. Now that I’ve had a chance to spend some quality time with this publication, I can give you an unequivocal recommendation: You have to have this book.

In her usual warm, chatty style that we’ve come to love on CraftyPod blog, Diane walks us simply and clearly through the basics of weaving, giving us the vocabulary we need to understand the intructions that follow for five must-try techniques and projects. She keeps her promise that we’ll “maximize the meditative part, keep the measuring and figuring as simple as possible, and generally have a great time.”

And she delivers projects that will satisfy your thrifty and green urges while exciting your imagination. I mean, look at the project featured here: beautiful jewelry woven from old magazine pages. (Guess what all the women and girls in my family are getting for Christmas!)

For just US $10.50, you get an instant-gratification download of 60 pages of crafty delight. Go get the book now!

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.