Mermaid Crafts

April 15, 2019
In this attractive if somewhat misleadingly packaged book, DIY crafter Gallego, of the popular YouTube channel Isa’s World, features a selection of mermaid and sea-themed projects in a variety of mediums, with detailed step-by-step instructions and photos. One can choose between a mermaid felt doll, a sock animal mermaid cat, a cardboard “mermaid secret diary,” and gumball machine–shaped candy jars, among others. Some crafters will be pleased that many projects can be adapted to different themes by changing colors or embellishments—but others may be disappointed that, despite the title, it’s not really a book of mermaid projects; some simply have the word “mermaid” painted on them, or are generically ocean-themed. Rather than beginning with projects aimed at absolute beginners, Gallego dives right into the deep end, beginning with a complex, acrylic-painted treasure box, with a completion time of five hours and skill level of “difficult.” Despite the childlike cover illustration and projects, she stresses that these are not crafts children can or should attempt on their own. However, for crafters looking for new things to make for or alongside their children, her cheery, colorfully illustrated guide offers plenty of fun.

May 15, 2019
Grades 4-8 YouTube crafter Gallego, host of Isa's World, takes kids into the enchanted world of mermaids with 25 projects that sparkle and shine. Labeled as easy, medium, or difficult, all the projects will likely require some degree of adult assistance and a trip to the craft store. However, for serious crafters, these projects will be well worth the time and effort they entail. Roughly half of the crafts fall into the medium category, with crafts utilizing some combination of clay, cardboard, papier-m�ch�, paint (and glitter!), or fabric. For example, lightweight Jumping Clay is used to make Mermaid Animal Pens, which involve sculpting kawaii animals around ballpoint pens. The easy crafts truly are simple, ranging from a sea-themed felt headband to sparkly slime. Kids who are up for a challenge can make a mermaid diary or felt doll. Each craft is introduced with its difficulty level, time required, and supply list. The instructions themselves feature short, descriptive paragraphs and photo illustrations of all major steps; appended traceable templates are also provided. A delightful offering.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)