The Crafty Chica Creates!

DIY with a Latina flare, inspired by Frida Kahlo and all things Mexico.
Some instruction, but not many instruction pictures.
The perfect gift for the more eccentric friend.

This was an enjoyable and very colorful (which I loved) book of craft and art inspiration. While I won't use a lot of the projects as-is, I can definitely see myself drawing inspiration from some of them for my own art. I especially loved the Frida Kahlo fiesta placemats. As a quick flip-through inspiration book I think it's excellent. The instructions for the projects were a bit sparse for those of us not as familiar with Latin culture and art, but there was enough to get the gist of the projects and adapt for my own use.

*Thanks to NetGalley and Quarry Books for providing an e-arc for review.

An wonderful book!

This book would make a perfect gift or a lovely addition to any crafters bookshelf, it’s perfect in every way. The bright colours would make anyone smile, the colours are so beautiful and so are the projects, each project instructions are so well written anyone could follow them

*a big thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an arc copy in exchange for an honest review *

#TheCraftyChicaCreates #NetGalley

Such a gorgeous book full of colors, cultures, and amazing ideas. I wasn't really sure what to expect -- and was happy to see that I can work on a few of the basic ideas presented here without being too intimidated (Repujado dicho matchboxes, resin phone grip, cigar boxes, greeting cards). It was right up my alley since I'm learning to branch out into wood burning and resin casting. The Peso Picture Frame was brilliant - I have coins from around the world that I wasn't sure what to do with. I'm not yet loving the sewing needle, but Ms. Murillo's projects are inspiring me to (maybe) give it another go. I loved this craft book and, being a Caribbean Latina, I really appreciated the love and culture that came across in this book. Love it!

Lots of projects that are, with a few exceptions, easy to make and celebrate the author's Mexican heritage. Don't avoid the book if this isn't your style. Many of the projects can be easily adapted to other colors, and design influences.

The New Crafty Chica Collection is an upbeat and beautifully curated collection of crafting tutorials with a Latin twist by Kathy Cano Murillo. Released 4th Jan 2022 by Quarto on their Quarry imprint, it's 128 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats.

There are so many pretty projects in this collection that grabbed my attention right away. The book is *full* of colorful and exuberant pieces which are also well made and stylish. Many are utilitarian and some are simply decorative. The book is arranged logically with project tutorials grouped thematically: clothing, affirmations, home decor, jewelry, garden decor, and fiesta. Each tutorial includes a tools and materials list in a highlighted text box, followed by step-by-step directions. I liked that the tools and materials lists are -very- comprehensive, even listing things like straight pins and markers which many (MANY) tutorial guides leave out.

The photography is abundant, clear, and easy to understand throughout. Definitely a plus for this collection. The emphasis is on Latin design and color and the author provides translations with a warm and friendly tone, inviting readers to share in appreciating and celebrating Latin culture. I loved so many of these designs and despite being a half-Jewish half-Irish kid, I reallly want to make *most* of these for myself or as gifts. I even followed her blog (this is a big thing for me since I have more projects to finish than I could possibly do in my lifetime, even if I live to be 437 years old).

Five stars. This would make a superlative selection for public or school library acquisition, maker's groups, activity groups, or the home studio. So much good material for inspiration here. (I love the repurposed vinyl LP cover journal so much)!

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Crafty Chica Creates by Kathy Cano Murillo is a colourful, Mexican inspired craft book. Full of multiple crafts from flamenco boxes to Mexi-tumblers this has a so many ideas. Easy to follow but could use some more instruction pictures.

This is a wild and crazy book, full of colour and really out there ideas - I love that it gives permission to go over the top with colour and style. It is Mexican with a little bit of Spain, and thumbs its nose to all that is subdue and restrained - it makes me happy.
There are lots of craft things to make from clothing, decoration, pictures, jewellery, faux plant arrangements, and my very favorite - matchboxes..
This book is great, for anyone who is interest in art, this book shows that everything goes and to try without fear the combinations and let loose.
It is also a great craft book.

She had me at the table of contents which features a papier-mâché skeleton doggie waving hello.

Kathy's newest book is every bit as awesome as her 'Crafty Chica's Art de la Soul: Glittery Ideas to Liven Up Your Life', and features tons of projects all geared toward brightening up your world - Latin style.

You'll find embellished clothing, shrines, greeting cards, pillows, picture frames, jewelry, and even garden decor that will banish forever the hum-drums from your every day life. Why put up with a dull, drab existence one minute longer? Get Chica-crafting - NOW!

Brilliant vibrant craft book with a clear colourful style. I adore all the projects in here and can’t wait to try some!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for letting me read an advance copy of this book in exchange for my feedback.