Book Reviews

The Maker: Beyond Decorating: Crafting a Unique Space

Tamara Maynes

Publisher – Murdoch Books

I was sent a copy of this new book to review and was really looking forwards to receiving it. My expectations were surpassed when I opened the package and I saw The Maker. I so love the look of this book, it’s a hardback book with a chunky feel, and a beautiful curve to the bottom corner which is a work of art in itself!

The book is jam packed full of beautiful images and photography and I feel as well as a craft/making book, it deserves to be left out as a ‘coffee table’ book so everyone can enjoy the amazing images. It’s a book to pick up and read from cover to cover as well as picking up just admire the photos.

Tamara is a pioneer of Australia’s modern craft movement and begins the book with her interesting background explaining she is inspired by makers of the past. The writer is a renter of properties and has not been allowed to decorate her homes so has added flair, colour and design through making items of furniture and art work. There are many crafts covered in this beautiful book including applique, ceramics, felting and leatherwork, to name but a few, which Tamara then goes into further detail for each craft/material.

There are DIY projects included in this book with step by step instructions for making the beautiful pieces for your own home. Wall art is a favourite of mine and Tamara shows the reader how to use different materials for gorgeous wall art to brighten up your home.

There are question and answer sections throughout the book with other talented makers which is very interesting, along with a section at the back with maker’s tools, which look more like art work how they are photographed.

Tamara has also included a section in the back of the book called ‘Who to Follow’ which includes great people to follow through different Social Media – including Twitter, blogs and Instagram.

I just love this book, the feel of it, the look of it and everything inside of it!

_________________________________________________________________________________

Homespace

By Darren Palmer

Murdoch Books

I just love this book. It is full of useful tips and practical solutions on how to update or change your home, very easily.

Tips include simply creating drama with focal points along with changing the look of a room completely by moving your furniture around. A great update which Darren suggests is how to dress your bed with cushions and throws for a completely different look, just by using different coloured bed linen and accessories. This is great for a new season up date.

Darren looks at different styles of homes, for example a beachside build to a new home providing a brief for each property style.

Kitchens, bathrooms and lounges are all included in this great book with ideas for individuals living in the spaces and any challenges they may encounter.

Homespace is filled with great photos which provide inspiration for you to apply to your own home.

Soft furnishings, accessories and artwork are all used to create many looks and Homespace allows you to easy copy the ideas for your own home.

Even by changing a rug in your lounge can alter the total effect and feel of the room.

You can make simple changes on a budget or without and by following Darren’s advice make your house a home that you love to spend time in.

_________________________________________________________________________________