Handmade Fabric Flowers: 32 Beautiful Blooms to Make (Book Review)

Since handmade flowers seem to be everywhere, and because they can be used for so many projects from bouquets to wreaths to headbands, I just had to take a look at this book by You-Zhen Lu: Handmade Fabric Flowers: 32 Beautiful Blooms to Make.  And I think this would be a great resource for those of you who have an Etsy shop that makes flowered items, or anyone who wants to get in to flower crafting.

Synopsis: Now you can learn all the secrets to making handmade fabric flowers from an accredited expert in the field. Translated into English this guide showcases complete instructions for making 40 gorgeous flowers—roses, peonies, daises, pansies, and more— using heat tools and a range of stunning materials like silk, lace, velvet, and ribbon. Each flower is accompanied by stepby- step directions and full-color, close-up photographs, plus clear, illustrated diagrams and full-size flower templates. The beautiful photography also provides inspiration for how to use the blooms as corsages and brooches, embellishments for headbands, fascinators, and bracelets, or even to brighten up a room.

 A comprehensive tools and techniques section introduces crafters to the specialized instruments and the trade secrets behind the starching process utilized to manipulate the fabric and to construct the flowers in the book. As the process is broken down into simple steps, even complete beginners will be able to follow, making this book perfect for new flower crafters or for more experienced ones looking to improve their techniques.

My Thoughts:  I love the variety in this book.  It’s amazing to see all the different types of flowers you can make, and the styles range from formal and chic to shabby and primitive.   You can learn how to make corsages, embellish your bags and clothing, or add the flowers flowers to your decor.  And they use a wide range of fabrics and materials.

The book includes information on the materials, as well as step by step instructions, diagrams, and photographs of the process.  And at the end there are templates for all the projects.  This book has so many possibilities for year round crafting!  And it would also make a great gift for the crafty chick in your life!

 Buy it! You can now purchase this book on Amazon.