One Stitch At A Time Tuesday 05 April 2011 My friends at Black Dog Books sent me a copy of One Stitch At A Time , a beginner's guide to making soft toys.  While I am not the world's best sewer -- I have to admit that it is gorgeous.  Author, Gen West, has collaborated with Postman Pat puppet maker Laura Clempson.  Needless to say, the softies in the book are impeccably stitched!  The complete toy making kit contains everything you need to make your first softie, plus patterns and instructions for other soft toy animals.  (Lots of great literacy skills involved in reading instructions and working with patterns.) I love the resurgence of handmade toys, and this book provides an opportunity for older children to have a go themselves.  One Stitch At A Time is recommended for kids aged 7+ and some adult help will undoubtedly be necessary.  Creative kids younger than 7 may be able to attempt softie making with more help.  An EXCELLENT gift giving idea -- especially as it retails for under $25. Black Dog Books are kindly giving a copy of One Stitch At A Time to a SquiggleMum reader.  I'd love it to go to a reader with slightly older kids. Leave a comment if you think you and your kids would like to have a go at softie making!  One entry per person. Winner chosen at random. Comp closes Saturday 9th April, 6pm Qld time. *I received my copy of One Stitch At