Book Nook: New Books from Dover for May

Jane Austen Embroidery: Regency Patterns Reimagined for Modern Stitchers

 Jane Austen was as skillful with a needle as she was with a pen, and this unique book showcases rare and beautiful embroidery patterns from her era, repurposed into 15 modern sewing projects. Derived from Lady's Magazine (1770–1832), a popular monthly periodical of fashion, fiction, and gossip, the projects consist of embroidered clothes, accessories, and housewares. Designs include an evening bag, a muslin shawl, an apron, a floral napkin set and tablecloth, and other pretty and practical items with timeless appeal.
These authentic patterns — many of which have not been reprinted in more than 200 years—are enlivened by vivid glimpses into the world of Regency women and their domestic lives. Fascinating historical features, quotes from Austen's letters and novels, enchanting drawings, clear instructions, and inspirational project photography trace the patterns' origins and illustrate their imaginative restoration for modern use. A must-have for every Jane Austen fan, this book is suitable for needleworkers at every level of experience.
 

3-D Papercraft: Create Fun Paper Cutouts from Plain Paper

Papercrafting can take many forms, from origami to gifts to decorations to collages to scrapbooking. This how-to guide presents 280 playful pieces to fashion from plain white paper. Step-by-step directions explain how to fold, bend, cut, and create dramatic three-dimensional ornaments and borders.
Projects include a variety of alphabet designs that will assist crafters in creating their own signs and wall coverings plus a tremendous assortment of embellishments, seasonal decorations, letter and number chains, and much more. The book is packed with photos as well as templates to copy, cut, and fold. Papercrafters at all experience levels, decorators, and scrapbookers will find 3-D Papercraft a source of endless inspiration and practical information.