I've discovered a new little passion - pre-1980s craft books! One of my favorite places to find them is a shop called Book ReViews in the city where I work. It's a used bookstore whose proceeds all go to local charities. They've got a nice little section of craft related books that I stop in to browse now and then. I mostly look for sewing and crochet books, but now and then something a little funkier might catch my eye!
My most recent trip turned up the three books you see above. The first two were published in 1980 and 1978, respectively, and are full of sewing projects. I love these types of books because although the projects seem kitschy at first glance, some modern fabric and few little tweaks bring them right up to date. Besides, retro is in, right? The third book was published in 1972. It's full of art projects for kids. I love the layout of this book. It's spiral bound and each page is a card with a different project on it. I figure they will make good rainy day projects someday!
I think the main reason I love these books so much is because they remind me of my childhood. My mom had a collection of craft books that I would pore over as a girl. I found so many projects I wanted to create, but of course, didn't have the supplies or skills necessary. As an adult, I can come up with the materials for those projects and give them a try! (It's one of my favorite parts of being a grown-up!)
Now that I have this new little hobby, I can hardly wait for garage sale and auction season to come. I've got new prey!
