Book Review: All Things Paper

Hello blog-land!

Today I'm sharing a review on Ann Martin's book "All Things Paper".  I've had the book in my possession for a few weeks now and have looked over it a few times.

I hadn't tried my hand at any projects because I've been suffering from SEVERE tendonitis in my wrist due to all the twisting and pinching that quilling involves.  But I decided to sacrifice my hand and give 2 of the book's projects a try.

I chose two of the jewelry projects designed by Ann herself.  The instructions were SUPER detailed and easy to follow.  It took me about an hour and a half to complete the two projects, but I was lacking some of the supplies so I had to brainstorm my way around it.

The first project is the "Teardrop Orb Pendant".  A very easy project, even for a beginner quiller and the finished product is pretty great.  My mother-in-law fell in love with it so I gave it to her.

The next project was the "Antique Key Pendant".  From the moment I laid eyes on it I knew that I wanted to make this one.  I didn't have enough of the paper required on hand so I brainstormed and ended up using strips from my handmade paper stash.  For the top part I had to use two different colors, a grey and the green.  But all in all I really love the way it turned out.  The one in the book looks like an actual gold key. Mine looks a lot more like paper, but I think it's pretty charming.

I didn't notice any use of a circle sizer and Ann also uses a needle tool a lot.  Needle tools require lots of wrist action, so the body of my key turned out kind of wonky.  But some people are really good with the needle tool.

All in all I love the projects I tried and I'm motivated to try a few more, like the "Sticky Notes Notepad Holder".   These are great projects for a lazy Saturday afternoon and many of them can even be made with/by kids.  There's something for everyone from a beginning paper crafter to an experienced one.

Ann's book is available on Amazon here.

On another note, I'm working on getting my hand all better so I can unveil the Sweet Spot's new direction soon.  Life has me quite stressed and busy but I need to keep my paper crafting in it cuz it makes me happy!

I hope January is treating you well and that none of you froze from the arctic weather we've experienced.  Until later, my peeps!

Stay Sweet!