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Fun Felt Crafts by Tina Skinner Book Review and Giveaway

August 11, 2009 by Linda Lanese

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Fun Felt Crafts by Tina Skinner is a fabulous book for those of us that love felting.  This book is published by Schiffer Books and they were kind enough to send me a copy to giveaway to one of you.  The pages are filled with clever ideas on how to recycle old or used woolens, as Tina points out in the history of wool crafts (Below).  Homemakers have been using left over or outdated wool clothing and recreating these into fashionable wearables for their families. I recall my mother telling the story about a coat and showing me pictures of this adorable coat that was made for her out of the wool lining of a worn out man’s overcoat.  The lining was a brown and cream plaid and the matching bonnet that matched the new coat.  There was a fur band around the bonnet and a fur muff was also created.  This book will show you just how to recycle wools and turn them into amazing and useful home décor items and wearables. Tina shows us the proper way to take apart an old wool blazer and skirt for use in fun new projects.  Felting and cutting up used wool sweaters will leave you with enough wool for many smaller projects. She shows you the basic stitches to use when hand sewing felted wool. There are patterns for making adorable pouches, bags and fabulous flowers she calls “flower Power” to decorate your hats, sweaters, jackets or stand alone brooches.  She has the cutest hats and sweater bags that will be one-of-a-kind by you the designer.  Tina has many templates in this book for patterns for your use.  The illustrations in this book are wonderful and clear and you will enjoy looking through the projects and creating your own from Tina’s basic ideas. This is a book that all felters will want to own.  

A History of Wool Craft by Tina Skinner:

Felt is one of the most popular craft mediums right now, but it’s hardly a flash-in-the-pan trend. Sheep are one of mankind’s oldest commodities, and their wonderful wool has been clothing and sheltering us throughout recorded history. Saving scraps of wool from sewing projects and salvaging what’s usable from used-up clothes is an age-old tradition. Women have been recycling wool into clever crafts since time immemorial, and the styles pioneered by America’s early homemakers are still much admired and imitated in Grafting circles today. Besides forming the basis for hooked and braided rugs, wool scraps are also the stars of the lesser-known penny rug. Penny rugs were probably never destined for work on the floor. Rather, they were used to protect the tops of precious cabinetry or furnishings while showing off the mistress’s skill with a needle.

To learn more about the designers and projects get this fun filled book.

Enter today or purchase it from Amazon or Schiffer Books. To enter (type enter me in the comment area)

 

 

 

 

 

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Have you read?

Rediscover the Charm of Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns With These 26 Patterns

There’s something magical about quilt patterns that have stood the test of time, and the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block is no exception. This classic design, with its intricate geometry and timeless appeal, has captured the hearts of quilters for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned quilting enthusiast or just starting your journey, this roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns is brimming with inspiration to suit every skill level.

From free tutorials to premium patterns, this collection offers a delightful mix of traditional and modern interpretations of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block. You’ll find a variety of sizes, layouts, and creative takes that breathe new life into this vintage design. It’s perfect for scrap-busting projects, heirloom quilts, or adding a touch of nostalgia to your quilting repertoire.

But before we dive into the patterns, let’s take a step back and explore the fascinating history behind the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block. Its origins reveal much about the ingenuity and storytelling that have long been a part of quilting traditions.

 

The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is part of the rich legacy of puzzle quilt blocks, which became popular in the 19th century. These designs often featured interlocking shapes, symbolizing interconnectedness and complexity, much like the lives of those who pieced them together. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block, with its distinctive angular pattern, earned its name from its resemblance to a game or riddle—a playful nod to the art of creating order from scraps and fragments.

Over the years, the block has been known by various names, including “School Girl’s Puzzle” and “Bachelor’s Puzzle,” reflecting regional differences and changing social attitudes. Despite its many identities, one thing remains constant: its enduring charm and versatility. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is not just a pattern; it’s a piece of quilting history that invites you to be part of a larger story.

 

Whether you’re drawn to the historical significance of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block or simply love its bold and striking design, there’s no shortage of ways to make it your own. This roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns offers endless opportunities to experiment with color, fabric, and layout, ensuring your creation is as unique as you are.

As you piece together your Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt, take a moment to appreciate the generations of quilters who have stitched this pattern before you. Each quilt tells a story, and now it’s your turn to add your chapter to this timeless tradition.

Ready to get started? Browse through the patterns, gather your favorite fabrics, and let your creativity shine. Whether you’re creating a wall hanging, a cozy lap quilt, or a show-stopping bedspread, the Old Maid’s Puzzle block is a beautiful choice that blends history with artistry. Happy quilting!

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

Accuquilt Old Maids Puzzle

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt 

A quilt block by any other name 

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle 

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Sunrise Quilt Studio

Splish Splash Stash: old maid’s puzzle block

Block #3 – School Girl’s Puzzle (also called Old Maid’s Puzzle) 

Old Maid Puzzle for Jen Kingwell’s Gypsy Wife – GnomeAngel 

0227 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilting Tutorial | Block of the Day 2023 | Rotary Cutting | AccuQuilt

Old Maids Puzzle – Stash Buster Block #19

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle 

 

Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Block – 6 sizes to choose from! 

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Jinny Beyer Studio

Old Maid’s Puzzle Patchwork Quilt Pattern | Purple Kitty 

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Free Quilt Block Pattern 

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt Pattern to Make ! – Beth Ann Doing

Free Quilt Pattern: Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Block

Sisters’ Ten Modern BOM August Block: Old Maid’s Puzzle — AnneMarie Chany Quilt Patterns

Quilting Assistant : Free Pattern : Old Maid’s Puzzle Block 

Old Maid’s Puzzle

Old Maids’ Puzzle Quilt Block Remix! – Kate Colleran Designs 

Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block – ooobop

Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Block

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