Book Review

Crafts, hobbies and weekend projects

Summer tiiime, and the living is eeeeasy…. Whether you’re looking for some barbecue inspiration or a new novel to keep you company on the hammock, we’ve got you covered.

Learn Drawing Quickly Sharon Finmark

This little book packs in a huge amount. You’ll find plenty of practical advice on composition, shading, perspective, proportion, choosing materials and so on, along with simple exercises and ideas for subjects. There’s everything from watercolour flowers to sketched urban street scenes. An overarching theme is of finding the beauty in everyday objects – a kitchen shelf, kids playing on the carpet, a man’s shirt. If you want to start drawing, improve your existing skills or just get some fresh inspiration, this book is a must.

Woodwork: The Complete Step-by-Step Manual Published by DK

Many of us tried woodwork in school. And for most of us, that’s where we left it. If you fancy dusting off your skills, this book could prove invaluable. There’s detailed guidance on tools and techniques, as well as stepby-step instructions for a wide range of projects, from a simple chopping board and wine rack to a more ambitious glass-fronted cabinet and gateleg table. Whether you’ll learning how to sharpen a bench plane or make a bookcase, the full colour photographs and easy-to-follow instructions will make your life a lot easier.

She’s in Ctrl Anne-Marie Imafidon

Perhaps you’re looking to turn a hobby into a career? Women are currently underrepresented in tech. In She’s in Ctrl, computer scientist Anne-Marie Imafidon looks at how more women could be encouraged into engineering, coding, physics and other STEM careers. She shares her own story, as well as those of other female pioneers who are helping to transform the world of science and technology. Nature Cuts Georgia Low

Aimed at beginners and enthusiasts alike, Nature Cuts is full of projects to get stuck into. You’ll find a list of required tools at the start of the book, as well as lots of advice and tips on cutting, scoring, choosing paper, folding, transferring designs and so on. And, of course, twenty beautiful, nature-inspired projects, from floral photo mounts to tealight lanterns.

Breadsong Kitty and Al Tait

Part memoir, part cookbook, Breadsong tells the story of Orange Bakery founders Kitty and Al Tait. At fourteen, Kitty sank into a cloud of depression so deep that she struggled to get out of bed. One day, her dad, Al, persuaded her to bake a loaf of bread with him. Soon they were baking daily, making loaves for friends and family, and experimenting with new recipes. Breadsong features the most successful of those recipes, from Sticky Fika Buns and Salted Caramel Happy Bread to Overnight Foccacia and Ultimate Chelsea Buns. A must for baking fans.

Jane Packer’s Flower Course Jane Packer

Whether you have a garden brimming with flowers or you just grab a bunch from Tesco’s now and then, this book will teach you how to display your blooms to their full glory. From simple arrangements to wreaths, garlands and bridal bouquets, each project is accompanied by stunning, vibrant photographs and clear instructions. An ideal book for beginners and seasoned pros alike.