cover image Christmas is Coming 1987: Holiday Projects for Children and Parents

Christmas is Coming 1987: Holiday Projects for Children and Parents

Linda Stewart. Oxmoor House, $17.95 (0pp) ISBN 978-0-8487-0710-1

Children will be happily entertained by the Christmas crafts and cooking projects proffered in the first half of this multifaceted, easy-to-use book. Recipes include cookie favoritesusually basic sugar dough with an emphasis on decorating techniquesand gift ideas. The art projects, utilizing mostly readily available ingredients and rated according to difficulty, range from a pom-pom wreath that requires only elementary cutting-and-gluing skills to a machine-sewn cloth bag. Color patterns are included on the same page as the project photos, and numbered instructions are illustrated by colorful drawings. Designs and concepts lend themselves to improvisation. Lucid patterns and instructions also feature in the latter half of the book, enabling adults with patience and a steady hand to create bright, attractive presents for children. Sewing projects involve appliques and embroidery stitched onto plain, purchased clothing or bold, graphic designs (patterns provided) on handmade tote and storage bags. There are also wooden toys, such as a puzzle and a pull-along giraffe. (September)