Dog Crafts

Anne Hutchings, a former elementary-school teacher-librarian with the
Durham Board of Education, is an educational consultant.

Dog and/or cat lovers will spend many enjoyable hours creating the
pet-themed projects contained in these new books in the Kids Can Do It
series. Identical in format, each volume begins with a general list of
materials required (cardboard, glue, scissors/knives, paints, and
brushes). For those with limited sewing skills, directions for special
techniques used (e.g., blanket stitch) are given complete with detailed
diagrams. Important safety rules are included for children (ask for
adult assistance, especially when using knives or the oven) and for the
pet for whom the project is intended (check creations to be sure there
are no loose or harmful components).

Many of the projects in Dog Crafts and Cat Crafts are similar: dog/cat
photo albums, pencil cases, lampshades, bookends, and switch-plate
covers. A few are specific to the animal. A catnip fish and a spider toy
are two just for cats, while Dog Crafts gives directions for making such
useful items as a grooming caddy for Fido’s brushes and combs as well
as a hook on which to hang his leash.

Instructions for each project are clear and easy to follow. Each step
is illustrated with large, colorful diagrams. Materials required are
highlighted and, in the case of the lampshades, patterns are included.
Safety tips are also emphasized and highlighted. The finished products
are useful and attractive enough to make any pet, or its owner, proud.
Highly recommended.