Magic Wool Fairies
It’s a crafting concept originating in Europe that’s just starting to enter the U.S.: a different use for unspun sheep wool. Called roving wool or uncarded fleece, this material has long been a foundation for spinners. In the fingers of German architect Schaefer, magic wool becomes the substance for creating, quite literally, a series of decorative angels that could fly as gifts or house accessories. The equipment is simple; most tools are fairly ubiquitous to American households, including pipe cleaners, wooden beads, scissors, glue, felt-tip pens, needle, and thread. With those at hand, the author launches her instructions—for simple, all-in-one and two-part fairies. The more than 20 patterns feature a variety of eight-inch-high creatures, from a lavender or orchid fairy to, yes, the Christmas and tooth fairies. Directions leave little to the imagination; color photographs are more than plentiful, especially in the first how-to section. The grammar (a translation from the German) can be a bit challenging; most of the designs are seen as “difficult,” with other levels not well represented. But great, easy-to-fashion holiday gifts. --Barbara Jacobs