All Style And No Substance

Homemade
Ros Badger and Elspeth Thompson

In A Nutshell: A gorgeous book to view and hold but with childish projects that lack originality and sophistication.

This book makes a fantastic first impression with tactile paper and stunning photos (I have the hardback version). The authors want to encourage people to find pleasure and satisfaction in making something themselves without spending a lot of money. Their aim is that projects should not necessitate a long list of stuff to buy and advocate “...a new mindset – one that involves looking around and seeing what you have to start with, before going out to the shops.” For this reason the craft projects are grouped into seasons to maximise any free resources available at the time.

I was initially seduced by this book, but once I started to look more closely at the projects, I discovered it was mere infatuation, not lasting love. The things to make are rather childish, similar to stuff I made at school, such as the felt egg cosy, pom poms and knitted scarf. The ideas lack originality and sophistication, and I’ve seen many in other books (the tin can lanterns, bunting and citrus pomanders). The suggestions for pumpkin lanterns are extremely dull when you compare them to the amazing Martha Stewart creations. It’s also a cheat to include recipes in a craft book.

I enjoyed the text in the book as the authors do write well with clear instructions. However, some of the projects would have greater clarification if diagrams were included.

I admire the ethos in this book and will continue to enjoy looking at the photos. It may appeal to parents as inspiration for stuff to make with their children. But for me it is like a beautifully iced cupcake – visually stunning , but disappointing to eat.