Laura Bennett (1)

Though I enjoyed Laura's contribution to Project Runway I was ready to hate this book. As one of nine children I have had enough of the reality-tv-mom-tells-what-it's-really-like stories that end up being NOTHING like the way I was raised. Instead of a sappy, sentimental, and unrealistic portrayal of the life of a large family I got a witty, provocative and humorous narrative. At times the stories didn't always seem to flow easily from one to another but they were always attention-grabbing and easy to read. Unapologetically addicted to nicotine gum and singing the praises of her "girls" Laura Bennett is surely on her way to being the Erma Bombeck for the modern Manolo-wearing Mom.… (más)

nonfiction, sewing/diy - accessories and embellishment, written by former Project Runway contestant.

thorough and thoughtful beginner's primer on working with leather (real or fake), fur (real or fake), metal hardware, feathers, rhinestones/beads on a wide variety of projects that progress in skill level as the reader gains experience. If you are interested in making purses/bags or belts, or embellishing dresses or shoes (or sewing a fur sweater), this is an excellent guide, covering everything from where to source your materials to finishing your edges with a protective gum.… (más)

I was really hoping to find inspiration from this book, but I did not. I found it to be a little silly, to be honest. Most of the "projects" were things that could be purchased for far less than the cost of buying the materials to make them. Some of the materials were not at all readily available, and would take a great deal of searching or internet shopping in order to make them. In most books, I have found that there is at least one project that the average crafty person can scrounge up the materials around the house and give the book a try. Not so with this one.

My biggest complaint, though, is the title. When I read it, my first reaction was, "um, excuse me?" I find the title to be very degrading to crafters everywhere. I'm sorry, but has Ms. Bennett even looked at etsy or Craft Gawker or Pinterest or Ravelry or... I could go on and on. The work crafters are doing is edgy and cool. Crocheted kleenex box holders are a thing of the very distant past, Ms. Bennett. Please do not assume that we are all country bumpkins in need of you to save us from our *gasp* homespun projects with your over priced materials and recycled ideas. A glasses case, business card holder, a number of clutches, a laptop sleeve, etc., have all been done many times before. With titles that weren't offensive.… (más)