I was recently sent a few copies of Beasties, a new book of plush sewing patterns by children's illustrator and artist Diana Schoenbrun to review on my blog.
I had never seen Diana's work, but was charmed after perusing her website and seeing her original stuffed animal and puppet designs. Diana has another book out called Make Your Own Sock Puppets that I've seen for sale at toy stores around here.
To me, this new book, Beasties, has two strengths. First, the designs are very imaginative. There are plush creatures in here that are fun and silly.
You can see that she gets a sense of freedom and inventiveness when creating three-dimensionally in fabric and that is something I strive for and admire. I wish the photography were better throughout. The typeface on the cover just doesn't look refined. It does not do the author's work justice.
And second, Diana creates really fantastical mixed media backdrops for each beast.
She uses all kinds of materials, including what looks like paper mache, tissue paper, bits of wood (or are those cinnamon sticks?), forks, cut paper, and all kinds of other objects to create little magical scenes for each beast to inhabit.
All of this looks fun to make, which brings me to the two things I think this books lacks.
First, I want to know more about Diana and her creative process. I want to see some pages from her sketch book – there must be some wild stuff in there! I want some tips on making some of these backdrops. A few sidebars with some of this information would be great. There are no step-by-step illustrations or photos at all in this book.
And second I want to know more about Diana's story. As this recent episode of the Craftypod explains so well, your story really sells your work. The first thing I do when I look at a new-to-me craft book is read the introduction, and then the acknowledgments. I want to know who this author is, why they make these objects, what they find compelling about sewing, about plush, about interpreting the world in fabric. All of this is missing from Beasties. Maybe it's because I'm the daughter of a newspaper reporter, but I know there is a story here and I'm disappointed that it has been left out of Diana's book.
Be that as it may, I enjoyed sewing up this grassy green turtle using Diana's pattern.
The pattern worked well and the project was quick and easy and with fun results.
This book is scheduled for release by Perigree in August, but you can win yourself a free copy right here. I have two to give away. Just leave me a comment between now and Friday afternoon at 2 pm EST. I'll draw two names at random and the book is yours to read and enjoy!
…well, it should be great to win this amazing book, so I’ll keep my fingers crossed for it and thanks so much for this generous chance!:o)
Hugs from Italy,
Antonella
This looks like a really, really interesting and fun book! I hope Lady Luck will smile on me. 🙂
Even though there are no instructions or tips on how to build such fabulous backdrops, the pictures alone are really inspiring. I’m tempted to build such great backgrounds for my plushies too!
You allow no grass to grow under your feet!
Those beasties do have a very fresh look! I made sock puppets w the children in Dorchester and relied on people like Diana. Thanks for the leads. I will share!
Some of those look pretty scary!! The elephant, yeti, turtle, Nessie, dragon…those look more my speed! I have not yet sewed a 3-D project, it would be fun to start!
🙂
rachel
I agree with you, an introduction about the author would have been nice. The patters are very unusual and cute. Would be nice to have a copy of this book. BTW, I love the way your turtle turned out, love the fur! 🙂
My friend Mary just sent me a link to your blog and I’m so pleased. Your point about the author’s story is perfectly timed for a project I’m doing! I feel lucky already! Best, Marianne
Of all the creatures, you chose my favorite – a turtle! How cute!
I agree with you, it is the story behind the story that makes the book all the more intriguing. Maybe a note to the publisher would help for next time!
I could really use a book on softies! thanks for the chance
Looks a great book and just the thing to use with my friends’ kids.
This is a good review. And my son would love these characters. I also agree with wanting to know about the maker/author. It makes a difference to have the back story!
So cute !!!
I want this book!
Please?
P.S. I hope the pregnancy is going well, Abby.
o, i like that book
but im probably to late
thanks any way!!
Guess what? You won! I hope you enjoy Beasties. Please email me (abbyglassenberg at comcast dot net) with your address. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
-Abby
thanks for introducing this book to me!
This is so cute and adorable.