Today I’m excited to be part of the blog tour for Handmade Hostess, the new book by fabric designer Kelly Lee-Creel and her sister, Rebecca Söder. This book includes twelve party themes sorted by the seasons, with craft ideas, sewing projects, and recipes. Projects include tiny leprechaun clothes to hang for St. Patrick’s Day, giant fabric flowers for a wedding shower, and a tutu tablecloth for a pixie party. Many of the major holidays are covered in the book with Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Fourth of July party ideas, as well as more unexpected themes including a mad scientist party and a Japanese garden party.

I like how the book gives you ideas for all aspects of the party with baking, sewing and decorating included, rather than just focusing on one element. And Kelly and Rebecca make it clear that not everything at your party needs to be handmade! Buy some things. Make it easier on yourself, and add handmade touches if you choose. Who wants additional stress? Here’s a quote from the introduction:

We don’t do it all, and neither should you (unless you really, really want to). The only good reason to do any of this—the decorating and celebrating, baking and making—is because you want to, and doing it yourself will give you immense satisfaction. There are lots of reasons we get caught up in trying to entertain our friends and families, but the best celebrations, however simple, are the ones that come from the heart.

Overall, I think this book will give you some inspiration to get started with a party, some delicious recipes, creative craft ideas and some simple sewing projects. Would you like to win a copy of the book? Simply leave a comment below by midnight eastern this Saturday (March 30) and I’ll choose a winner at random. This giveaway is open internationally!