Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Vintage Love Wednesday...Vintage Notions Book Review

I decided that it would be "Vintage Love" Wednesday, as I am reviewing "Vintage Notions" by Amy Barickman.

Amy's book, Vintage Notions represents a culmination of a personal journey started 20 years ago when Amy began collecting rare sewing and needle arts books, vintage home arts magazines and cookbooks, as well as sewing, textiles and handiwork projects she found at antique stores and flea markets, ultimately creating one of the largest collections of its kind.  This book was also inspired by the works of Mary Brooks Picken, who founded the Woman's Institute of Domestic Arts & Sciences in 1916, the largest school in history devoted solely to teaching women how to combine the domestic arts with entrepreneurism.


This book is a great inspiration to the crafty, vintage, and today's culture who is returning to a simpler lifestyle!  The book is divided into seasons, then months/holidays.  "Thimblefuls" are inspirational essays included in each month that seem befitting for that month. Amy's book provides women with imaginative and inventive ideas that show them how to use their talents and skills in the best way possible.


You all know that I recycle and refashion, and there are some great sewing projects for each month. Wonderful projects that have been added to my "Crafty-Do List":  such as, the summer purse; lampshade; and of course, the Magic Patterns (chic, easy to make sewing patterns).  I'm also looking forward to sampling the various embroidery stitches!  This would be a great time for me to 'refresh' my skills!  I also enjoyed (and, have added) the seasonal recipes to my recipe box.  In particular, the "Planning Meals Without Meat"!


This book also features four storage pockets - one for each season.  This will be great for keeping notes and all sorts of other little vintage things.


I truly enjoyed and will further enjoy this book!  I feel that Amy celebrates the value of the crafty, domestic divas and their lives!

2 comments:

Erika Mulvenna said...

I just got my copy of this book and can't wait to start flipping through it!

Aminah said...

I'll have to get a copy of this book. I have a few vintage sewing books of my own, some from my grandmother & others from antique & thrift stores.