Mar 13
(Love to Sew: Patchwork Bags; Love to Sew: Mug Rugs)
Talk about double the fun! The 40 projects in [these two books] provide so many fast and fabulous ways to get creative with fabric. What's a mug rug? It's the latest trend in sewing and quilting, that's what! Part placemat, part coaster, it's the perfect size for a cup of coffee and a few cookies and a cute way to add a bit of personality to an afternoon break. Dress up your kitchen table with a variety of mug rugs: everything from a mug rug shaped like a giant cupcake to one with a pocket for your spoon! And if you love making bags, you're in for a treat. These 20 speedy projects come in a wide range of head-turning styles - retro, urban, playful, romantic, modern... you name it!
* Crafter's Choice *
Mar/Apr 13
Christa has collected together designs from various artists to present 22 different mug rugs - smaller than a placemat but larger than a coaster. Materials and techniques are fully explained and the book contains all templates and full detailed instructions. A fun book to appeal to all ages and abilities.
* East Kent Embroiderer's Guild *
Mar 13
Not a placemat nor a coaster, the mug rug is just right for you cup of tea or coffee and a couple of biscuits or a spoon. These perfect sized mats will surely find a place in your home. 22 designs are featured each with easy to follow instructions and good photography. All templates are provided and basic techniques are given. The mats have been designed by various artists using quilting and applique techniques. I'm sure you'll find plenty you love. I particularly like Nostalgic Charm and Good Morning by Renate Bieber, Cathedral Windows by Verena Surerus and Pretty in Pink by Sabine Gunther as well as the Pocket Rug by Kerstin Porsch. A lovely book with new ideas and ideal for gift making.
* Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *
Apr/May
I must confess I have never heard of a mug rug before, but as many of us sue mugs instead of cups and saucers, this certainly seems like a practical solution to avoiding unsightly ring marks on you furniture. The mug rug is described as a large coaster with room for your favourite mug and biscuit or two. These projects are small enough to complete in a few hours, but large enough to expand your creativity and get to grips with a new technique you haven't tried before. There are 22 different designs by various artists and all have clear instructions and templates where applicable. These projects would make a quick but personalised gift for a friend or a quick make for your next quilting fair.
* Fabrications *