Countryside Softies

April 25, 2011
Got Scraps? Adams shows crafters whimsical ways to recycle odd scraps of cloth, or "upcycle" an outgrown sweater or dress into a beloved keepsake. Adam's plush animals and sculptures, or "softies," are charming additions to the field of handmade toys. Instructions for projects are organized by "habitat" such as Amongst the Woodlands and In the Hedgerow, and contain an entire world of critters and accessories ready to be created. In addition to patterns for foxes, otters, swans, and other woodland creatures, Adams includes dragonflies, butterflies, bumblebees, birds, and charming little props such as a carrot for the rabbits, chestnuts for the squirrels, and eggs for the ducks. Adams also gives instructions for making ornaments, a mobile, and finger puppets. Using different materials and following Adams's instructionsâwell written and with beginners in mindâwill yield an infinite number of woodland creatures. Adams's humor and personality infuse both the text and the projects, which are marked with mushrooms indicating the level of intricacy; more mushrooms mean a more involved project. Though most of these softies could be made by hand, a sewing machine would be helpful. Illus.