My birthday is coming up (hint, hint)

I'm a little disappointed this year. I usually get a parade but this year my birthday falls closer to the end of the week. No matter, I am not one to make a big deal out of my birthday. But since I very rarely buy them for myself, this is one of the two days a year where I end up getting a lot of craft books (the other day being Christmas). This is what is on my wish list:

I read that there are a lot of errors and such in this book but I still want it. I've seen the projects being created around crafty-blog-land and they look so simple and beautiful.

[ETA: Check out the video of author Heather Ross on Martha making the super simple smocked summer dress.]


Who doesn't love Martha? OK, a lot of people. But she has impeccable taste so you know a craft encyclopedia from her is going to be first class.


Judge a book by it's cover? Yes, I do. I also liked this part of the book's description, "...encourage quilters to use bold patterns and unusual color combinations, and to trust their instincts rather than follow rigid rules." I need a bit of that.



I have been a fan of the blog I Heart Linen for a couple of years. And now Rashida has a book, I Love Patchwork. Her projects are so beautiful and creative. Unfortunately I'm going to have to wait for this one. It isn't being released until November.