Backstitch The backstitch is a basic embroidery stitch and is used decoratively in many of the softie projects. It is called backstitching because you move the needle a stitch backward before sewing the next stitch. To backstitch

You will need:50 x 30cm blue gingham30cm of thin white laceMatching sewing threadRed embroidery thread1. Using the template (download it here), cut one apron and one pocket from the gingham fabric. Cut a 50 x 5cm rectangle for the waistband and a 16

everywhere!You will need ■ Crochet hook 3.5mm ■ Snow and charcoal coloured wool. Double knitting or Aran wools work well for these projects. Lion Brand Cotton-Ease Yarn gives a nice finish ■ White and black embroidery thread ■ Felt for eyes ■ Stuffing■ Needle

Crafting With Kids by Catherine Woram Ryland, Peters & Small, £14.99, 3+There are 35 make-together projects for you and your child to enjoy. With simple and fun activities designed for preschoolers from finger-painting on ceramic plates

You will need Red, brown, cream, green, pink and blue felt Red, brown and cream embroidery thread 15cm brown waxed cord or string Paper templates Erasable pen or pencil Sewing needle Scissors Polyester toy stuffing 1 small white pompomBe prepared

Some might say that, with their oddly oversized limbs and lopsided eyes, Donna Wilson’s strange creature crafts have faces that only a mother could love.And yet there’s more amiability than mean-spirited malice in her merry band of misfits