Book Review: Topsy-Turvy Inside-Out Knit Toys

Hi all! I've had this lovely little book since shortly after its release, and I can't stop knitting from it! 

I have always proclaimed myself as a non fiddly bit knitter and would steer clear at all expense of knits requiring lots of ends or seaming up. So I really don't know what set off the sudden need to buy this book, but I'm so glad I did! Not only were my fears of fiddly bits completely unfounded, Susan's genius designs and easy to follow patterns were a joy to knit. I have knit multiple toys from this book including the snowman to tree, egg to penguin, egg to alligator and a few more as well! All have turned out quite sweet and as fast as I knit one it goes just as quickly out the door with its happily enthralled new owner     

So far this little guy is the only one who stayed long enough to get his picture taken, but alas later the same day he was claimed by a very happy newly five year old boy ;)

He is very cute but he does look rather sleepy. 

So my review is definitely get this book! You won't be disappointed and its even fun just to flip through now and then, guaranteed to make you smile. 

Next on my needles will be the dog house to puppy I think....or maybe the squirrel they are both good choices I can't decide. Also on my needles right now are two pairs of socks, a cardigan and another honey cowl which I'm hoping to finish tonight!

Well that's it for now dear friends I'm off to knit land for the rest of the afternoon. See you soon :)

* my opinions are my own I just truly enjoyed this well written book and thought to share the fun. 

Useful Books

In the never ending search for helpful information about sustainable and simple living. I've come to rely on these books for everyday use.

The first  for it's wide coverage of topics, makes it is an excellent source for starting your journey. Each subject has some great tips and information, just keep in mind the book is more of an overview to get you started. I find myself turning to reference this often whenever we decide to tackle a new task.







The next being a more in depth look at raising animals on a small scale, we foud this the most useful when choosing to raise chickens.












No this book doesn't fall into the same category as the other two but is a beautifully written book. And is a wonderful way to learn to make do and work with all the many materials your home is already filled with. She also offers some great tips about thrifting.






What are the books you find useful around your home?

Sweets Mat

These little mats are just as the name suggests sweet... and easy too! I wanted a cute little mat for coffee that wasn't a coaster and not as large as a place mat so of course I turned to a Japanese craft book, makers of all things sweet and cute. Perfect.

Not only are they adorable and practical they're ridiculously easy within a couple of hours I had a set of 4 completed and ready to use and that's including interruptions.

I love these books "Linen Wool Cotton" by Akiko Mano and "Patchwork Style" from Suzuko Koseki are Japanese style craft books written in English. Both books offer plenty of inspiration and the sweet factor.

I hope everyone had a lovely, crafty weekend.