Bags With Paper and Stitch by Isobel Hall for Interweave Press (ISBN 978-1-59668-051-7) is a terrific new book I recently had the pleasure of reviewing.

The cover says “ Innovative Surface Techniques for Embellishing Bags” and that only gives the reader a hint of the imaginative designs and techniques this book offers. There are big bags and small bags, elegant bags and casual bags. There are basic purses and clutches, totes and tiny tags for the bags. The author gives workshops on making handmade papers, and was looking for something special to do with her collection of papers when someone asked her to make a bag. And as they say, the rest is history! These papers and bags are made from everything from silk fibers to diaper liners – yes, I said diaper liners! This book is a smorgasbord of yummy ideas to inspire the reader. The author gives very clear instructions for the bags in the book, as well as a supply list. Two pages of suppliers listed in the back of the book will help the reader find some of the more unusual supplies used.

Every time I thought I had picked a favorite bag, I turned the page and changed my mind! I love silk, and after reading how to make my own paper from silk fibers I was ready to make a bag. Then came the chapter on textured papers, and instructions on making paper from onion skins! The chapter on color and pattern introduces working with alcohol inks, acrylic paint, crackle mediums, gold interference, tissue papers and stamps. The book also covers image transfer techniques, wax resist, appliqué and working with liquid polymer clay to make paper. Information on handles and closures serves as a springboard for the reader’s own creativity

The author’s attention to detail will be a big help to the reader who desires to make any of these bags. I especially liked the fact that she told us of some things she would change if she made a particular bag again, and why. She shares with the reader her reasons for choosing some of the materials she uses in each project, and also offers alternatives. The book’s photographs are excellent, giving a clear, detailed view of each bag. With the growing popularity of “going green’ and recycling, the bags in this book are a recycler’s dream. Be aware that very few of these projects are quick and easy, but the results are worth the time and effort spent. Buy the book if you want to learn several techniques for exquisite creations, or if you just want some inspiring eye candy!