Whether you’re looking for a way to unwind from the day’s activities or hoping to get a head start on gifting season, there is something for everyone on this list.
Ranging from step-by-step guides for beginner crocheters and knitters, to advanced techniques for dedicated weavers and metal-wielders, we challenge you to hone your craft, whatever it may be—or even fall in love with a new one!
Plus, what better way to celebrate Christmas in July than by getting a head start on your handmade Christmas gifts?
Here are eight inspiring books to help you start a fresh hobby this summer.
This list fulfills a prompt in our 2025 Summer Reading Challenge! Learn more and join here.
Embroidery in 10 Lessons
This essential guide offers readers 10 simple lessons on how to reimagine everyday objects with breathtaking stitching, beading, and patchwork.
The projects, ranging from beginner to advanced approaches, include embroidering flowers on clothes and embellishing pillows—there’s something for everyone!
Cross-Stitch Mandalas
Designs of intricate circular patterns, mandalas, are recognized around the world as a way to pause, internally reflect, and promote calm.
Drawing inspiration from the places she has visited, with their unique histories and stories, embroiderer Isabelle Haccourt Vautier presents 20 mandala designs that can be styled in numerous ways.
Crochet Now
In Crochet Now, a beginner’s guide to creating beautiful crochet, no question is too small. With years of teaching early learners under her belt, dedicated crochet instructor Salena Baca breaks down seemingly complex techniques into easy-to-follow steps.
Beginning with how to hold a hook, and moving through the different crochet terminology, you’ll be stitching away your dream project in no time!
New Techniques in Colored Pencil on Metal Jewelry
When learning to work with silver, brass, aluminum, and more, master jeweler Roxan O’Brien is the guide to turn to.
Discover new techniques in this comprehensive guide, including dotting and blending, that will transform everyday metal into stunning jewelry, ranging from statement necklaces to sculptural rings.
Complete Guide to Rigid Heddle Weaving
Whether you’re a beginner weaver or looking to step up your game, there is a project for everyone in this collection.
Covering all the basics, from measuring warp and weft to setting up the loom, this guide provides answers to common problems and photo illustrations to make it as pain-free as possible to follow along.
And if you’re looking for a challenge in addition to the beginner strategies, look no further. There are numerous techniques to try, including but not limited to tapestry, Saori, color effects, and openwork.
Crochet Hacking
Are there items in your closet that you’ve been looking to breathe new life into? Think of this book as a tool kit of tips and instructions for you to reimagine the clothes around you.
Whether by stitching up holes or adjusting the fit of a garment, or even turning the item into a new creative project altogether, these crochet ideas will help you find a new purpose for pieces in your wardrobe.
First Time Knitting
More than just a way to create things, knitting has come to be recognized as a therapeutic practice, one that asks you to slow down and consider your place in the world around you.
This book instills in you the confidence to be alone, with a range of knitting techniques, teaching you skills that you can build upon in each chapter.
100 Little Christmas Gifts to Make
With over 100 crafting projects, including, but not limited to, papercraft, sewing, cross-stitch, mosaic making, and decoupage, these adorable Christmas items make perfect gifts for family and friends.
The wide array of artistic contributors makes sure there are projects for beginners, as well as for advanced creatives who want a bit of a challenge.
Featured image: Floral Deco / Canva
