Pirates and Pompoms Review

Pirates and Pompoms is a new craft book available from Laurence King Publishers. It gives instructions on how to make children’s toys and costumes.

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In a time where childrens toys are plastic and mass produced, the authors Stella Bee and Jemma Bell want to give parents the tools to create long lasting and high quality toys and costumes that will be treasured. They teach you basic sewing techniques, how to make a paper mache paste mix and how to use freezer paper as a stencil. Following their clear pictorial instructions you can create items such as a pirate treasure bag, a toy lion and leaf bunting.

Pirates and Pompoms is divided into three themes that will appeal to both girls and boys: Pirates, Circus and Woodland animals. Each topic provides instructions on how to make a range of costumes, props and toys for your little ones to immserse themselves in each topic. Through your creativity a whole new world will come to life for your wannabe adventurer and entertainer.

To be honest craft books have always scared me. I see a picture of the completed object with a long list of complex instructions which only someone with an art degree would understand. I usually muddle through but my lack of artistic ability means my completed item is only fit for the bin. I am left disappointed and my self esteem is knocked. However, flicking through Pirates and Pompoms I immediately felt inspired. The crafts are stunning but there looks to be something for the full range of artistic abilities.

Each craft has a list of resources needed which is next to a large image of the final product. The instrutions are given in pictures as well as text which is easy to follow. Handy tips are dotted around the page to give you further guidance. At the back of the book you will find the templates needed for various items.

For each theme, Stella and Jemma have thought of everything needed to foster your child’s imagination. In the Pirate section you can make a pirate beard, eye patch, hat and hook so your little one looks the part. You can make a sail and telescope so their imagation becomes a reality. There are also instructions to make your own mini pirate, treasure bag and eave bedhead for your little ship mates.

The circus section is packed with bright and colourful creations for your little one to put on a show. The Big Top immediately caught my attention. You too can make juggling beanbags, a ringmaster’s hat and coat as well as various ways to decorate your Big Top. We are looking forward to making the Strongman Weights!

The Woodland Animal section enables you to turn your little one into a woodland creature. Everything is included – a mask, tail, ears and paws. You can even make a woodland tepee which includes leaf bunting.

Pirates and Pompoms is packed with creative toys and costumes to inspire you and your little one. The book is available directly from Laurence King Publishers and Amazon.

Disclaimer: We received Pirates and Pompoms from Laurence King Publishing to review.  All thoughts and opinions are our own.

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