Review of Handmade Home: Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Materials into New Family Treasures (Paperback)

I wasn't sure what I'd get in "Handmade Home", but now I can tell you!The first part of the book is a primer on the eco-friendly art of reusing old materials.It's filled with tips for getting the best finds at thrift stores, garage sales, etc.She shares what to look for, even with reminders to leave behind those great deals that one doesn't need for the next thrifter - it's "thrifting karma" says Amanda.Excellent advice!There's also brief ideas for setting up a sewing space in a small area.

The second part is a large collection of 30+ projects organized by categories: Nourish (as in kitchen items), Nurture (as in wellness), Play, Seek (as in adventure) and Retreat (as in decor).The categories are loose, but they do give you a peak into the scope of the projects.And they are not "the usual" projects.No patchwork quilts or aprons here.Those are useful patterns (and can be found in "Bend-the-Rules Sewing") that anyone might want, but not what you'll find in Handmade Home.Amanda Soule's book brings many ideas that incorporate childrens' art - "Portrait Bookmarks" - or make use of fabric scraps - "One-Word Banner".She includes several non-sewing projects, often using decoupage.There are useful, but "alternative" patterns for items like cloth diapers, rag bags and women's cloth.And then, there are memory-preserving projects like the "Memory Tree Quilt Art."Everything is beautiful!And, just as with her blog SouleMama, everything is presented along with inspiring photography.Along the way she shares "crafty tips" and "earthy tips" - both of which share ways to craft smart, making safe, eco-friendly choices.

I have only begun to absorb the goodness to be found in this little volume.But, just this weekend, I have finished an embellished bath mat and have begun a "One-Word Banner" for my son's room, using my husband's discarded wool sweater and fabric scraps from my son's crib bedding and nursery items.I think that "Handmade Home" will enrich the life of many a "Green Mama" interested in creating and reusing.Enjoy!

Product Description
Handmade Home offers simple sewing and craft projects for the home that reflect the needs, activities, and personalities of today's families. Filled with thirty-three projects made by reusing and repurposing materials-from vintage feedsacks to old sheets and towels-and including some projects that children can help with, all of the items here offer a practical use in the home. Amanda Soule does much more than simply present a collection of handmade items; she reveals crafting as a lifestyle based on the principles of consuming less and reusing more, appreciating the earth, and connecting to our families. This is a craft book that gives you the tools for creating a life-and a home-full of beauty, integrity, and joy.
Projects include:
- Papa's Healing Cozy: This hot water bottle cover becomes a simple way to offer comfort to a sick child
- Baby Sling: A simple pattern for an object that offers so much to a small child-refuge from the world and a place to lay their head next to a parent' heart
- Beach Blanket To-Go: Repurpose old sheets to create the perfect picnic blanket for special outdoor meals
- Cozy Wall Pockets: A creative solution for storing a child's small treasures.

About the Author
Amanda Blake Soule is the author of The Creative Family, and creator of the popular blog www.SouleMama.com. Amanda spends her days with her four young children - making things, thrifting, exploring and being inspired by their coastal Maine surroundings. Learn more about her and find her blog at www.amandasoule.com.

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