Crafts for revamping your room

Gr 4-8-These titles focus on using household objects that would normally be thrown away to create fresh new goods. The only items crafters might need to purchase would be things such as needles, thread, and PVA glue-all of which are inexpensive and easily obtained. Each title has 11 crafts, which include a "You will need" list and numbered instructions that are accompanied by brightly colored photos that clearly demonstrate the steps. Each volume relays information about recycling and environmental awareness. For example, Accessorizing That Look explains that mining for precious jewels often causes environmental destruction. In Pampering Yourself, readers learn that many beauty products use petroleum, a non-renewable resource. Revamping Your Room discusses how paper can take 5 to 15 years to break down, and it releases dangerous gas as it does so. Styling Your Wardrobe informs fashion fans that "The average plastic bag is used for just five minutes but takes five hundred years to decompose." From the style of the projects (bracelets, headbands, treasure boxes, etc.) and the preponderance of pink, the target audience here is strictly female. Solid choices where craft collections need a boost. (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

After an introduction explaining relevant environmental concerns (e.g., non-biodegradable ingredients in beauty products), each of these books guides tweens through eleven simple crafts that upcycle used materials. Step-by-step instructions and sidebars of additional environmental information, tips, and further project ideas are arranged in a busy scrapbook layout heavy on pastel colors. A basic sewing tutorial is appended to each volume. Websites. Glos., ind. [Review covers these Eco Chic titles: Crafts for Accessorizing That Look, Crafts for Pampering Yourself, Crafts for Revamping Your Room, and Crafts for Styling Your Wardrobe.] (c) Copyright 2014. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.