And none are more charming than the graceful, functional, sewn objects called zakka. In Japanese, zakka means “household goods,” referring specifically to hand-sewn items for domestic use—tableware, kitchenware, containers of various kinds, even simple clothing. Therese Laskey and Chika Mori were enchanted by the many clever pieces they saw online but disappointed that directions and patterns were solely in Japanese. They knew they had to put together an authentic zakka book for English-speaking crafters. To do so, the authors enlisted the help of some of the best zakka makers in Japan to create 25 projects ranging from utterly simple (an appliquéd pot holder, flower-shaped coasters) to ambitious (a house-shaped camera cozy, an adorable pair of comfy padded slippers). Each project includes easy-to-follow instructions and how-to illustrations. The lovely photos of finished pieces were taken by New York–based Japanese photographer Yoko Inoue.

    But when he learned he had had undiscovered powers, he had no choice but to learn how to use them. After relocating to North Dakota in order to practise his new found abilities, he soon finds himself in the targets of Louis Bonne, a man who wants to understand how the curse placed on Remy worked, so that he can use the souls of innocent people to make himself immortal. Since Remy has no interest in helping, Louis Bonne sends a group of murderers intent on convincing him. But Remy isn’t some helpless bystander, and these people will soon discover that Remy isn’t the kind of fox who runs from a hunt. Hunted is a new novella set in the universe of the Hellequin and Avalon Chronicles series.

    Roach puts a new spin on mending by adapting traditional techniques for today’s crafty sewers. With detailed photography to show each step, she teaches a wide range of patching, darning, and repair stitches using both hand and machine sewing. The how-to text is accompanied by dozens of inspiring examples from Kristin’s own work and that of other craft bloggers and artisans. You'll love the innovative solutions using appliqués, patches, brightly colored accents, and intricate lace details. With Mend It Better, every garment and fabric repair is a chance for self-expression and fabulous creations.

    A follow up to the Last-Minute Knitted Gifts, this book - designed for use by both first-time and long-time quilters - features 30 patchwork and quilted projects organized according to the amount of time it takes to complete them: less than 2 hours, 2 to 4 hours, 4 to 8 hours, 8 to 12 hours and 12 hours or more.

    Easy-to-follow patterns, beautiful photographs, and colorful step-by-step drawings help the projects come together quickly----many in less than an hour. Whether they are created in kimono silks or in contemporary cottons, these tiny boxes, purses, decorative toys, incense pouches, and good luck charms all make delightful gifts.

    In fact, many of its rules and guidelines could still be applied today. Make Do and Mend focuses on clothes rationing, which was introduced in June 1940. With the nation's industrial output concentrated on the war effort, basic clothes were in short supply and high fashion was an unknown commodity. Adults were issued as little as 36 coupons a year to spend on clothes. But a man's suit could cost 22 coupons, a coat 16 and a lady's dress 11, so the need to recycle and be inventive with other materials became more and more necessary. The government issued the leaflets included in Make Do and Mend to advise on how best to avoid wasting valuable resources by recycling curtains into dresses and old sheets into underwear; in short how to 'make do and mend' rather than buying new clothes. Produced from original material held in archives the leaflets are also a nostalgic showcase of 1940s' style, which makes them the perfect gift.

    On The Mind-Body Code, pioneering neuropsychologist Dr. Mario Martinez invites you to discover the dynamic interplay between your thoughts, body, and cultural history to master the creation of wellness and fulfillment.Biocognitive Theory: A New Model of Health and Well-BeingWhy do some people live well past the age of 100, without ever seeing a doctor? How can certain individuals reverse "incurable" disease, while others carry burdens of childhood wounds despite years of therapy? Dr. Martinez' Biocognitive Theory synthesizes insights from medicine and psychology, cultural anthropology, and Eastern and Western spirituality to find the answers to such baffling questions. The Mind-Body Code shows you how to speak the "biosymbolic language" of this new model of health. Six sessions of illuminating case studies complemented by relaxing yet potent mind-body meditations help you balance every facet of your life, from relationships and aging to abundance and ambitions.Embrace Your Greatness—and Empower Your Dreams The first step toward the health and satisfaction we all desire begins with one act: allowing yourself to be great. For it is in reclaiming your natural state of worthiness that you come back to wholeness and see anew all that is possible for you. With The Mind-Body Code, you hold a blueprint to rebuild your dreams and to take total control of your life's journey.Program HighlightsThe five portals of wellness and the biosymbolic language of your mind-body• How to break through your "ceilings of abundance" by healing archetypal wounds• Debunking the myths of aging with the secrets of the centenarians• From fibromyalgia to stigmata—fascinating case studies of the power of the mind-body-culture connection• Creating the "healing fields" of honor, commitment, and loyalty• The psychology of forgiveness—and a special guided practice for liberation from self-entrapment• Six CDs of insights and exercises with the founder of Biocognitive TheoryCourse objectives:Define the five portals of wellness and the biosymbolic language of your mind-body• Discuss how to break through your "ceilings of abundance" by healing archetypal wounds• Examine case studies of the power of the mind-body-culture connection from fibromyalgia to stigmata• Practice exercises with the founder of Biocognitive Theory, including a guided practice for liberation from self-entrapment through the psychology of forgiveness• Define and create the "healing fields" of honor, commitment, and loyalty• Debunk the myths of aging, by learning the secrets of the centenarians

    It does all this through just four very simple mending techniques: exterior patches, interior patches, slow stitches, darning, and weaving. In addition, the book addresses the way mending leads to a more mindful relationship to fashion and to overall well-being. In essays that accompany each how-to chapter, Katrina Rodabaugh explores mending as a metaphor for appreciating our own naturally flawed selves, and she examines the ways in which mending teaches us new skills, self-reliance, and confidence, all gained from making things with our own hands.

    Economist and lifelong knitter Loretta Napoleoni unveils the hidden power of the purl and stitch mantra: an essential tool for the survival of our species, a means for women to influence history, a soothing activity to calm us, and a powerful metaphor of life.This book is a voyage through our history following the yarn of social, economic and political changes - from ancient Egypt and Peru to modern Mongolia, from the spinning bees of the American Revolution to the knitting spies of World War II, and from the hippies’ rejection of consumerism to yarnbombing protests against climate change. For the author it is also a personal journey of discovery and salvation, drawing on the wisdom her grandmother passed along as they knit together.Revealing recent discoveries in neuroscience, The Power of Knitting offers proof of the healing powers of knitting on our bodies and minds. Breaking through societal barriers, even nursing broken hearts, and helping to advance cutting-edge science, knitting is still a valuable instrument for navigating our daily lives.As a bonus, the book includes patterns for ten simple yet iconic projects that reflect the creative, empowering spirit of knitting, with complete instructions.