Linda Hendry

For a kids' craft book, the projects here are simple enough to complete, but complex enough to give a sense of accomplishment. The materials are simple, such as cardboard, bristol board, white glue, etc., the most complicated being self-adhesive vinyl for a place mat. This saves the parent from having to have specialty items around.

As a general crafter, I also appreciate the introduction of simple techniques that make a project looks finished, such as painting the back of a cut-out image or making a foldable crease in a book cover with a ruler and a butter knife. This also helps with not needing specialty tools. There are scoring tools, but a butter knife can work, just as water and glue can do the job of Modge Podge.

The ideas area easily transferred to different themes besides dogs, though some items, like the collar cover, feel more dog specific so the theme isn't totally arbitrary. It's a good book for children interested in crafts and can handle (or is ready to learn) things like glue and scissors, paint, and simple sewing.… (more)