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Crafts & Hobbies

Are you a master of your own craft or just looking for your next hobby? You have come to the right place, because at Tales you find a wide variety of hobby and craft books perfect for both professionals and beginners. Whether you like action and fun found in sports, games and motor vehicles, or you enjoy diving into the more gentle and cozy creative activities and DIYs, you find it here. If you instead like spending time outside we would recommend you to take a look at our selection of books about hobbies within the field of gardening, nature and animals. We have something for every taste. Are you ready to dive into an inspiring universe of crafts and hobbies?
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  • - 50 to 250 cc with carburettor engines
    by Phil Mather
    £22.49

  • - Knitting Charts, Combination Designs, and Colour Variations
    by Mary Jane Mucklestone
    £11.99

    A comprehensive guide to 200 beautiful Fair Isle designs. From simple one row "peerie" patterns to complex allover repeats, the 200 knitted samples contained in this book will thrill and inspire the knitter, experienced and beginner alike.

  • - An Illustrated History of the World's Most Famous Fashion Magazine
    by Alberto Oliva
    £38.49

    In Vogue is a fascinating look at the history of the world's most influential magazine. The complete compendium is illustrated with hundreds of covers and archival interiors of past Vogue editions, featuring the work of some of the twentieth century's most respected artists, cover illustrators, and photographers-from Edward Steichen, Toni Frissell, and Erwin Blumenfeld to Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, David Bailey, Helmut Newton, Annie Leibovitz, Mario Testino, Steven Klein, Bruce Webber, and Herb Ritts. In 1909, an entrepreneurial New Yorker named Condé Nast took charge of a struggling society journal and transformed it into the most glamorous fashion magazine of the twentieth century. In Vogue traces the history, development and influence of this media colossus-from its beginning as a social gazette in the late nineteenth century, to the exploration of modern fashion photography and new visuals in the mid-twentieth century, to its status as the top style magazine today. The book explains the makings of the magazine-from runways, to editorial meetings, to the pages of Vogue.The thoroughly researched story incorporates first-person accounts, interviews with editors and photographers, and excerpts from stories written in the magazine by many world-renowned writers, including Truman Capote, Aldous Huxley, Richard Burton, Federico Fellini, and Marcello Mastroianni. Unparalleled in its scope and exceptionally illustrated, In Vogue is sure to be among the most important publications on the subjects of culture, art, fashion, photography, and media.

  • by Renee Petrillo
    £23.49

    The authors didn't have any boating experience and when their plans to remedy that fell through the two had to learn everything the hard way. This title includes lessons the authors learned and shares them as examples of what and what not to do. It explores the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of a cruising multihull.

  • - Key Pieces to Sew + Accessories, Styling, and Inspiration
    by Lotta Jansdotter
    £16.99

    Lotta Jansdotter's Everyday Style is a pattern book/inspiration guide anchored by five easy, versatile sewing patterns--skirt, dress, blouse, pants/shorts, and jacket/coat--and highlighted with quick DIY accessories, including hats, bags, scarves and jewellry.

  • by William Shakespeare
    £9.99 - 93.99

    A murdered King. A usurped Prince. A promise of revenge. Returning to court to find his father murdered and his mother married to the murderer, Hamlet faces a terrible dilemma. This is Shakespeare's great tragedy of passion, corruption and revenge.

  • by Rick Beech
    £7.99

    Add elegance and style to any table setting, with fabulous napkin folds for every occasion; 1100 clear photographs and illustrations show you how, with tips for inspiring place settings and table decorations.

  • - To Create is to Destroy, Now With Even More Ways to Wreck!
    by Keri Smith
    £9.49

    Wreck This Journal is a captivating book authored by the talented Keri Smith. Published by Penguin Books Ltd in 2013, this unique piece of literature invites readers to explore their creative side. The book belongs to the genre of interactive and self-help books, challenging the traditional notion of keeping a journal. Smith encourages her readers to think outside the box by offering a variety of prompts that inspire artistic expression and self-reflection. The author's unconventional approach to journaling has made Wreck This Journal a must-have for those seeking a novel way to express themselves. The book is a testament to Keri Smith's creativity and Penguin Books Ltd's commitment to publishing innovative literature. Dive into this remarkable journal and let your creativity run wild.

  • by Haynes Publishing
    £26.99

    With a Haynes manual, you can do it yourself€¦from simple maintenance to basic repairs. Haynes writes every book based on a complete teardown of the motorcycle. We learn the best ways to do a job and that makes it quicker, easier and cheaper for you. Our books have clear instructions and hundreds of photographs that show each step. Whether you''re a beginner or a pro, you can save big with Haynes!-Step-by-step procedures-Easy-to-follow photos-Complete troubleshooting section-Valuable short cuts-Model history and pre-ride checks in color-Color spark plug diagnosis and wiring diagrams-Tools and workshop tips section in colorComplete coverage for your Yamaha VMX1220 V-Max for 1985 to 2003(Restricted and full power versions):-Routine Maintenance-Tune-up procedures-Engine, clutch and transmission repair-Cooling system-Fuel and exhaust-Emissions control-Ignition and electrical systems-Brakes, wheels and tires-Steering, suspension and final drive-Frame and bodywork-Wiring diagrams

  • by Piet Oudolf
    £15.49

    Dream Plants for the Natural Garden is a fascinating book penned by the renowned author, Piet Oudolf. Published in the year 2013 by Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd, this masterpiece delves into the world of natural gardening. The book is a brilliant blend of Oudolf's profound knowledge and expertise in the field, making it a must-read for gardening enthusiasts and professionals alike. Written in English, the book offers an extensive exploration of dream plants that can transform any garden into a natural paradise. Dive into this enchanting world of natural gardening and discover the beauty and wonders of dream plants with Piet Oudolf's insightful guidance.

  • - From Good to Great to Unstoppable
    by Tim S. Grover
    £9.49

    Relentless, a riveting masterpiece by Tim S. Grover, was published in 2014 by Simon & Schuster. This book falls under the genre of self-help and motivation, offering a unique insight into the mindset of the most successful and accomplished people in the world. Grover, renowned for his work with elite champions and Hall of Famers, shares the secrets of becoming relentless, teaching readers how to trust their instincts and get in the Zone. This book is not for the faint-hearted or the contented, but for those who are ready to achieve their highest goals. Relentless shows you how to trust your instincts and get in the Zone; how to control and adapt to any situation; how to find your opponent’s weakness and attack. Grover gives you the same advice he gives his world-class clients—“don’t think”—and shows you that anything is possible. It's an engrossing read that will leave you feeling empowered and ready to conquer your own challenges. Published by Simon & Schuster, this book is a must-read for those seeking to unlock their potential and strive for greatness.

  • by Robert Race
    £11.49

    Magic - an unanalyzable charm, a strong fascination so that the whole is more than the sum of its parts.

  • - A Complete Manual for the Beginner Through to the Advanced Embroiderer
    by Country Bumpkin Publications
    £10.99

    The A-Z of Embroidery stitches is designed to encourage you to try new techniques, explore new horizions, and above all, to experiment. Whatever your status as an embroiderer, we hope this book kindles your enthusiasm, and provides you with an enriched knowledge of this timeless art.

  • by Tone (Author) Finnanger
    £12.99

    A gorgeous collection of inspirational home accessories including quilts, cushions and decorative items to make Christmas even more special.

  • - A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival
    by Dave Canterbury
    £11.49

    Bushcraft 101, a book by Dave Canterbury, is a comprehensive guide to surviving in the wild. Published in 2014 by Adams Media Corporation, this book is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The book falls under the 'Survival Skills' genre, providing readers with practical tips and strategies to thrive in the wilderness. Canterbury, a renowned survival expert, shares his extensive knowledge on bushcraft and survival, making this book an invaluable resource for those wishing to learn more about this subject. Adams Media Corporation, known for their diverse and innovative publications, adds this unique and informative book to their impressive collection.

  • - An Inky Quest & Colouring Book
    by Johanna Basford
    £9.49

    This stunning new colouring book by Johanna Basford takes readers on a inky quest through an enchanted forest to discover what lies in the castle at its heart.

  • - The complete guide to planting, picking and preserving chillies
    by Kay Maguire
    £13.49

    From the author of the award-winning RHS Grow Your Own Crops in Pots, RHS Red Hot Chilli Grower is an informative and inspirational guide aimed at anyone who fancies giving chilli growing a go.

  • - A Coloring Book of Amazing Places Real and Imagined
    by Steve McDonald
    £11.49

    This unique colouring book features immersive aerial views of real cities from around the world alongside gorgeously illustrated,Inception-like architectural mandalas. Artist Steve McDonald's beautifully rendered and detailed line work offers bird's-eye perspectives of visually arresting global locales from New York, London, and Paris to Istanbul, Tokyo, and Melbourne, Rio, Amsterdam, and many more. The adult colouring book's distinctive large square format offers absorbingly complex vistas to colour, the crisp white pages are conducive to a range of artistic applications, and a middle margin keeps all the artwork fully colourable. Complementing the cityscapes are a selection of mind-bending labyrinthine architectural illustrations for still deeper meditative colouring adventures and imaginative flights of fancy.

  • - Learn to sew the perfect wardrobe - no patterns required!
    by Chinelo Bally
    £15.49

    Before appearing on the BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee, Chinelo Bally had never used a sewing pattern. She wowed the judges with her ability to create stylish, fitted garments using a freehand cutting method that was taught to her by an aunt. In Freehand Fashion, Chinelo lets us in to the secret of how she does it. Using a series of basic garment blocks, she explains how this innovative technique can be used to create a whole wardrobe of fashionable clothes that will fit every shape and size - with no patterns required. Based on a traditional Nigerian technique, Chinelo has developed her own freehand cutting method. The emphasis is on the individual's own body measurements, and getting the perfect fit. This is a surprisingly simple technique that anyone can learn. No fancy equipment is needed - just a sewing machine, measuring tape, chalk and of course a good pair of scissors. Using step-by-step illustrations, the book shows how to draft, cut and construct the five basic blocks that are used - either singly or in combination - to make every item of clothing in the wardrobe. Once you have your basic blocks, you are ready to tackle the projects - practical garments that are fashionable, modern, stylish and versatile. There are tops, skirts, day dresses and eveningwear. This is an exciting sewing technique that will be brand new to most people, even experienced dressmakers. There really are no limits - and the beauty of this technique is that it can be applied to any body shape.

  • - Interiors for Slow Living
    by Nathan Williams
    £27.49

    Interest in home design has been on the rise for some time, but Kinfolk's focus on slowing down and creating a more intentional, beautiful home is where the attention is shifting. Through luscious photographs and interviews, the author takes us into 40 homes around the world, from the Americas to Europe, Asia to Africa, ending in Australia.

  • - Mastering the Psychology of Mind Over Muscle
    by Matt Fitzgerald
    £11.99

    The greatest athletics performances take place in the mind, not the body. HOW BAD DO YOU WANT IT? explores some of the greatest moments in endurance sport to reveal habits and tactics we can use to cultivate your own mental strength.

  • by Leslie McDevitt
    £35.99

  • by Mark Storey
    £22.49

    S-MAX & Galaxy MPVs Turbo-diesel:   1.6 litre (1560cc), 1.8 litre (1753cc), 2.0 litre (1997cc) & 2.2 litre (2179cc)  Does NOT cover petrol models or ‘Powershift’ or automatic transmissionsDoes NOT cover new S-MAX and Galaxy ranges introduced July 2015 

  • - A Comprehensive Guide to Mechanical Wristwatches
    by Ryan Schmidt
    £38.49

    A reference work for the novice or the seasoned watch enthusiast, fully illustrated with 400 colour photographs, and includes sections on basic watch mechanics and the watch movement; complications; dial design; case design and materials; straps, buckles, clasps, and accessories; and the industry and its players.

  • - A Surfing Life
    by William Finnegan
    £10.99

    Winner of the Pulitzer Price and William Hill Sports Book of the Year: Barbarian Days is a deeply rendered self-portrait of a lifelong surfer looking for transcendence 'that recalls early James Salter' (Geoff Dyer, Observer)Surfing only looks like a sport. To devotees, it is something else entirely: a beautiful addiction, a mental and physical study, a passionate way of life.New Yorker writer William Finnegan first started surfing as a young boy in California and Hawaii. Barbarian Days is his immersive memoir of a life spent travelling the world chasing waves through the South Pacific, Australia, Asia, Africa and beyond. Finnegan describes the edgy yet enduring brotherhood forged among the swell of the surf; and recalling his own apprenticeship to the world's most famous and challenging waves, he considers the intense relationship formed between man, board and water.Barbarian Days is an old-school adventure story, a social history, an extraordinary exploration of one man's gradual mastering of an exacting and little-understood art. It is a memoir of dangerous obsession and enchantment. 'Reading this guy on the subject of waves and water is like reading Hemingway on bullfighting; William Burroughs on controlled substances; Updike on adultery. . . . a coming-of-age story, seen through the gloss resin coat of a surfboard' Sports Illustrated

The advantages of Crafts and Hobbies 
At Tales you find hobby craft books for everyone. The books will allow you to dive into what interests only just you and to expand on your creative skills will evolve you as a human being. It will make it easier for you to concentrate in every situation of life including at your work space. It will also make you more innovative and creative in general - something many jobs require of you today. 
The hobby books are directed to every level and will inspire you to get started or improve the craft that you have fallen in love with. 
In Tales’ selection of Crafts & Hobbies - you could also get inspiration to get more motion or physical activities into your busy everyday life. We all know that exercise is good and healthy for us, but you may have tried all the most common sports(grene) and all the machines at your local fitness center, and concludes that motion was not something for you. In our selection of hobby craft books you find all the inspiration you need to discover new and creative ways of movement. They will make you forget all about motion and sweat and you will instead just enjoy the game, while you actually move your body quite a lot. Exercising is not only good for your physical health, but also your mental health will benefit from it. You improve our attention span and you will have a better capacity to learn new things.  
Another wonderful thing about hobbies is that it can create communities. When you gather around a common interest you can find new friends, who all like the same hobby or craft as you. As part of a creative community you can meet a great diversity of people, who all happen to be interested in the same hobby as you. A social community around a common hobby can also help you on your way to becoming better to your craft. In a community you can spar with each other and learn from each other's experiences both within the field of the specific hobby, but as your friendship grows you can also spare about life in general, maybe while you knit, sew or play. 

Crafts & Hobbies Trends
Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic the focus on DIY and other creative activities you could in a home doing quarantine has grown. Many have taken up their previous interest in sewing or knitting and others discovered the wonders of making their own clothes for the first time. Also in light of the climate crisis many especially young people have an increased focus on sustainability and by sewing your next dress or knitting your next sweater yourself you can also make the clothes making process more sustainable. 
The advantages by making your own clothes is in fact that you can design and make it as you want to. If you are a novice in sewing we would recommend you to follow the guidelines found in a good hobby and crafts book that will guide you every step of the way. The pandemic has also increased the focus on the home and garden, and in our selection you find the hobby books that will help you decorate your home in the best possible way, and guide you on how to get a vigorous garden with lots of flowers and life. 

Hobby crafts scrapbooks
Tales’ selection also counts hobby crafts scrapbooks. The scrapbooks either guide or invite you to fill out different creative tasks in order to remember some of life’s biggest events. You can for example get inspiration for how to best remember your wedding in the hobby crafts scrapbook Our Wedding Scrapbook. The scrapbook is a beautifully illustrated guide on how to gather all the wonderful and overwhelming first wedded memories in a well-arranged and pretty package of a book. 

Hobbycrafts sketchbooks
It can sometimes be hard to keep track of all your creative ideas, and that is why a hobbycrafts sketchbook is a good to have. In a sketch book you can collect all your different ideas both through text, illustrations and pictures and have them all assembled in one place, and have them at hand at all times. Who knows, when they might come in handy? You can for example find the popular Moleskine series in Tales’ selection of Crafts & Hobbies. The Moleskine notebooks are perfect as hobbycrafts sketchbooks and they come in a world of variations and colors. 

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