"Pretty in Punk: 25 Punk, Rock, and Goth Knitting Projects" (Chronicle Books, $19.95): Tired of knitting lackluster scarves? Alyce Benevides and Jaqueline Milles deliver an innovative dose of inspirational projects, all of which derive from the punk, ska and pin-up girl cultures. Whether you embark on the adorable aviator cap or the rockabilly clutch project, the authors provide you with detailed how-to's while encouraging knitters to "inject their own personalities."
"Design Idea Book: Learning From Designer Showhouses" (Sunset Books, $21.95): Karen Templer guides readers through 39 designer "idea" houses, highlighting the choices behind the decor of these stylish homes. With more than 400 vivid photographs, those looking for inspiration for a new home or a renovation have a tremendous armchair reference in this book. Templer leads readers through the decorating maze with helpful hints on the details that make the space: color, flooring, paint and wall treatments.
"DIY Creative Juice" (Sterling Publishing Co., $14.95): Cathie Filian and Steve Piacenza of the DIY Network show "Creative Juice" have cobbled together a wealth of "re-crafting" projects in their first book. Although some of the suggestions lean a bit toward the gaudy, a handful of the craft ideas feel fresh and inventive. Take, for instance, the metal pipe candleholders or the mosaic button picture frames, which refashion extraneous household items into functional art. Divided into five realms (Adorn, Decorate, Give, Play and Remember), crafters of all experience levels will find fun projects peppered throughout this book.
"The Big Book of Weekend Beading" (Reader's Digest, $26.95): Whether it's one-of-a-kind jewelry or embellished accessories, this guide contains more than 30 projects that will stoke the imagination of novices and veterans alike. For those less familiar with beading, the book provides a comprehensive overview of types of beads as well as materials needed to complete the outlined projects. Arranged in order of difficulty, this book's vibrant photos and straightforward directions make it a welcome addition to the crafter's collection.
-- Kimberly Tarr
