TTAH RECOMMENDS: Pick for February 2008

It's been a while, but I finally refreshed TTAH Recommends. I had good reason to, too - I just picked up and read Craft, Inc. by Meg Mateo Ilasco, and I've determined it's an absolutely essential book for any crafter. It's a very fast read, but it's filled with vital information for anyone going into the handmade business - though I consider myself to be pretty well informed on business management and I still learned a lot out of it. It's well designed, well written, and I was able to read it thoroughly in a single evening while still taking every point in. The designer interviews weren't as inspirational or exciting as I had hoped (I found myself skipping them after a while), but it was a fun and unique addition nonetheless. I highly encourage you check it out, as it's very insightful and is especially wonderful for those who are either considering starting a business or in the early years of one.

TTAH Recommends : May

WIth the new layout refresh, Try This at Home introduces a new feature: TTAH Recommends. This feature is our "book club" of sorts, with books I either own or have checked out of the library and highly encourage others to read. TTAH is powered by Amazon, and every purchase made through TTAH Recommends goes to pay down the TTAH hosting bill (I'm not looking to turn profit, I do this because I love it!).

Without further ado, the May recommendations!

Get a Hobby by Tina Barseghian: From ant farming to candlemaking, from silkscreening to watercolor, this book helps you identify hobbies that you'll love based on your personality and hobbies you're already persuing. After you find one you want to try out, it gives you the tools to get on your way, as well as further reading to advance your new interests!

The Complete Book of Jewelry Making by Carles Codina: Already an expert in jump rings and wire? Ready to move onto more advanced jewelry making? This book gives you an in-depth how to on some more advanced techniques in great detail and with easy to understand full-color photographs.

In Stitches by Amy Butler: Not only is this book deliciously designed, but so are the projects within them! With patterns and ideas for yourself and for your house as well as techniques and tips, it will make anyone want to dust off their sewing machine and get to work!