Publisher's Weekly Review

In this concise and practical offering, London designer Alicia (Make It Your Own) teaches readers how to make 18 unique handbags. In addition to options intended for travel (overnight bag, oversize beach tote), festive occasions (fold-over clutch, pompom bucket bag) and everyday use (basic tote, shopping bag), the author gives readers a robust list of new skills to master, such as inserting zippers, making straps and handles, and squaring corners. She also suggests what should be in a well-stocked sewing kit, explaining why readers will need resources such as professional quality dressmaking scissors, tailor's chalk, and bradawls (the last being a small tool for making holes in fabric). Alicia wraps up with sage advice on choosing the right fabrics and finding one's personal style. Charmingly explaining that she is "a fairly impatient maker," Alicia offers many options that can be created quickly, dubbed "quick makes." Each project has a skill-level rating, keeping fledgling crafters from getting in over their heads. Laden with gorgeous color photography and easy-to-follow templates, Alicia's book will tempt many crafters into replicating her designs--and adding their own twists. (Aug.)